There are several ways to reduce emissions on dairy farms. Most fall under two main areas of work.
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Farmers pay close attention to the health, welfare and nutrition of their cows to help increase productivity of animals over time. A more productive animal leads to a lower carbon footprint per litre of milk produced.
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Farmers are focused on improving their soil to grow crops in a way that respects the nature around the farm for decades to come.
Many strategies to choose from
Canadian farmers can choose from many tools and a wide range of strategies to produce more food with fewer resources, and less impact on the environment, in ways that are also good for the animals, good for the planet, and good for business.
Dairy farmers are not expected to select or adopt a specific option or technology to abate emissions, but they can choose what fits best for them and their farm. Here are some of the popular choices, which are also recommended in the Best Management Practices Guide to Mitigate Emissions on Dairy Farms:
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Strengthening soil health naturally by incorporating manure to soils to increase living micro-organisms, rotating crops, adding cover crops, and protecting natural areas around the farm.
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Minimizing tillage in fields and maintaining native grasslands and prairies. These practices help keep more carbon in the ground and also prevents topsoil erosion.
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Improving animal nutrition and feed efficiency.
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Selecting sires for breeding strategies so each generation of animals is more efficient, productive, healthier and lives longer.
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Using energy efficient technologies or renewable energy (solar, wind, biodigesters and biofuels).
