In the Barn

There are several sustainable practices Canadian dairy farmers can implement in their barns.

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.

Energy Efficiency
Energy 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.

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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.

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RECYCLING PLASTICS

Working with dedicated partners helps farmers recycle agricultural plastics into the circular economy.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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managing manure

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.

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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!

 
Our experts lay out answers to commonly asked sustainability questions about Canadian dairy, plain and simple.
SEE THE ANSWERS

What’s next?

in the field
In the Field

Explore the sustainability steps Canadian dairy farmers are taking in the field on the road to net zero.

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farmers stories
Farmers' Stories

Learn about innovative sustainability pilot projects on Canadian dairy farms.

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