Monday 7 February 2022

Dairy Farmers of Canada targets net zero emissions by 2050

The Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC) has announced its goal to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions from farm-level dairy production by 2050.

Reaching the target will be done through various actions, including carbon offsets and goals related to soil and land, water, biodiversity, waste and energy.

From 1990 to 2019, dairy farmers in Canada reduced the carbon footprint of milk production by 22% through improved management practices.

Last year, the DFC joined 11 of the world's largest dairy organisations in supporting 'Pathways to Dairy Net Zero', a commitment towards net zero emissions.

DFC President Pierre Lampron said: “For generations now, Canadian dairy farmers have been stewards of the land, adapting their practices based on science and innovation.

“Our leadership in the area of sustainability is already recognised internationally as we have one of the lowest carbon footprints per litre of milk produced.”

The DFC's latest target also supports the Government of Canada's goal for net zero emissions by 2050.

Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change added: “A global effort is underway to cut emissions and reduce the direct costs of climate change on our health, our environment and our economy.

“Every economic sector and every region needs to step up to reduce emissions. The Dairy Farmers of Canada's commitment to achieving net zero shows important leadership and our government will continue to support our collective efforts to get there.”