The Dairy Group receives award to research a dairy industry blueprint on achieving Net Zero

Led by The Dairy Group’s consultant Richard Lane, the team will co-ordinate the 12-month research project and report findings to the Trehane Trust, as well as the wider dairy industry.

“We had some very strong applicants, which reflects the importance of a research project that looks at the current science in driving down the dairy industry’s carbon footprint,” says Trehane Trust chair Diana Allen. “But we also want this project to provide a blueprint for dairy producers, which gives clear, cost-effective and practical pointers that will help them at farm level.

“We feel confident that with the expertise within its team and its UK and international contacts, as well as its national network of dairy clients, that The Dairy Group can deliver on this,” adds Ms Allen.

“We are looking for well-researched and realistic pointers for producers and their advisers, as they look to mitigate the negative effects of climate change and promote more sustainable and efficient dairy businesses, and in doing so, meet the Government’s net-zero targets.

Richard Lane of The Dairy Group

“This must not be a report destined for a shelf, but one that will provide a catalyst in our mission towards net zero.”

The Dairy Group team also includes: managing director Ian Powell; dairy consultant Christine Pedersen, specialising in nutritional aspects; and environmental consultant Rebecca Tavernor, who has expertise in nutrient management and accreditations relating to soil and water management.

“The Dairy Group is delighted to have been awarded this prestigious fellowship to help the UK dairy industry towards net zero,” says Richard Lane. “We will review research and identify key strategies and use these to measure and benchmark dairy systems.”

The Dairy Group will use its findings and knowledge of UK dairy farming to make recommendations aimed at measuring and reducing carbon emissions on farm – both practically and profitably.

“The marketplace is shifting rapidly and climate change is at the forefront,” adds Mr Lane. “We will liaise with the supply chain to ensure our report meets market expectations and contributes to creating a healthy and sustainable UK dairy industry.”