What can Canadian dairy farmers do in their barns to help lower their carbon footprint and energy needs?
A lot of options are related to technology solutions or are related to animal health and efficiency.
BRIGHT IDEAS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Many dairy farmers have found ways to reduce electricity use with energy efficient lighting, automated ventilation and equipment that cools milk and warms water at the same time.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Several farmers seize the opportunity to produce and use renewable energy. Wind turbines, solar panels and bioenergy are among the innovative green energy generators that can be found on some Canadian dairy farms.
RECYCLING PLASTICS
Working with dedicated partners helps farmers recycle agricultural plastics into the circular economy.
NEW TECHNOLOGY
Digital farming? With GPS-enabled smart tractors, computerized or robotic equipment and data, farming is going high-tech and more precise. That’s sustainable.
INCREASING EFFICIENCY
The current generation of cows are healthier and more productive than before. Fewer cows are needed to produce the demand in milk, and consequently, a litre has a smaller environmental footprint than 10, 20 or 50 years ago.
IMPROVING COW NUTRITION
As they digest their feed, cattle emit methane. The modern dairy cow's diet is fine-tuned for nutrition and health, backed up by extensive research.
MANAGING MANURE
Some methods of collection and storage of manure emit less greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) than others and they can help reduce a farm’s carbon footprint.
Did you know? Every Canadian dairy farmer takes charge of their own unique environmental farm plan. Farmers also draw inspiration from 57 environmental practices listed in the proAction® program. Find out more!
