In a bold move toward a more sustainable future, Tesco has partnered with leading dairy suppliers Arla and Müller UK & Ireland to launch the Future Dairy Partnership, a pioneering initiative set to drive major environmental and animal welfare improvements across the UK dairy sector. This farmer-led collaboration aims to reduce carbon emissions by 30% by 2030, enhance animal welfare, and support nature restoration on dairy farms.
The Future Dairy Partnership involves all 400 farmers in Tesco’s Sustainable Dairy Group (TSDG) and extends an invitation to other dairy industry players, underscoring a united approach to sustainability. Given the significant challenges posed by climate change to food production and supply in the UK, Tesco, Arla, and Müller are taking proactive steps to build a resilient and eco-friendly dairy industry.
Ashwin Prasad, Tesco’s Chief Commercial Officer, noted the importance of collaboration to achieve these ambitious goals, stating, “To reach our climate and nature targets, we must work together to drive transformational changes in the industry. This partnership with Arla and Müller will support farmers in achieving these goals while ensuring sustainable farming practices.”
The Future Dairy Partnership will focus on several critical areas:
- Innovation and On-Farm Projects: Through dedicated farmer-led initiatives, the partnership will test and implement methane-reducing feed additives, nature-based solutions, and other innovations to reduce the carbon footprint of dairy farming. Scaling up these projects will be a priority to maximize industry-wide impact.
- Industry-Wide Sustainability Report: This comprehensive report will outline a roadmap to sustainable dairy production, offering insights into necessary innovations and financial resources to help the entire agricultural sector achieve sustainable practices.
- Sustainable Dairy Blueprint: The blueprint will provide farmers with clear sustainability targets, offering them the flexibility to choose suitable methods while adhering to high environmental standards.
Bas Padberg, Managing Director at Arla Foods UK, commented on the importance of unity in addressing climate challenges: “Through real collaboration, we can drive meaningful transformation in the dairy industry. Together with Tesco, we invite the entire dairy sector to join us in this journey.”
Rob Hutchison, CEO of Müller Milk & Ingredients, added, “Our commitment to reduce emissions from supplying farms by 30% by 2030 reflects our dedication to a sustainable dairy industry.”
This partnership signals a significant step forward for the UK’s dairy sector, uniting stakeholders to promote sustainable and responsible farming practices for a resilient future.
