Their Future Dairy Partnership arrives at a critical moment, with climate change already impacting UK food production and introducing uncertainties to the dairy supply chain.
Tesco, Arla, and Müller have committed to a 30% reduction in on-farm emissions by 2030, a goal that seeks to safeguard milk supply and bolster food security. With both Arla and Müller uniting in the partnership, all 400 of Tesco’s Sustainable Dairy Group (TSDG) farmers across the UK will be part of the initiative.
The suppliers and retailer are also broadening the partnership by reaching out to other organisations across the dairy industry for input and support.
“Achieving our sustainability ambitions requires a united industry approach,” stated Bas Padberg, managing director of Arla Foods UK. “Collaboration across farmers, processors, industry bodies, and retailers is essential, as we can accomplish more together than we could alone.”
Further announcements on additional partner organizations are anticipated in the coming months.
A key aspect of the initiative is its farmer-led approach, with producers central to designing and testing new sustainability initiatives.
Farmers will trial methane-reducing feed additives and other carbon-reduction innovations that could be scaled industry-wide, with financial support to offset associated costs. Padberg highlighted Arla’s FarmAhead incentive, a points-based system that rewards farmers for integrating sustainable farming practices with higher milk payments.
Another priority of the initiative is the development of “nature-led” schemes aimed at optimizing nutrient cycles for climate benefits, improved soil health, and enhanced biodiversity, he told FeedNavigator.
Read more: Cargill, Danone, C-Lock and CRV outline how to engage farmers on methane reduction
Read more: Methane emissions on UK dairy farms higher than official figures suggest
Read more: Feed and farmer solutions for busting methane
Outcome-based metrics
Regarding the specific metrics for measuring the success of the partnership’s sustainability initiatives, Padberg said: "A new blueprint document will serve as a framework outlining industry-wide, outcome-based targets for carbon reduction, nature conservation, and animal welfare, along with the actions needed to meet these targets."
Addressing the evolving challenges posed by climate change and food security, he commented: "We are committed to high-quality, sustainable dairy production in the UK to support food security. Climate change and food security are key drivers of this partnership. Our work will evolve as we review activities, gain insights, and remain guided by science."
As the team gathers insights and learnings from the partnership, they will share updates with key stakeholders "as appropriate."
