Sustainability in the Dairy Industry

Apr 10, 2019

Dairy farmers are committed to producing delicious, nutrient rich milk as well as taking care of the land and their animals. To meet the growing need of the U.S. population, farmers are working hard to reduce their impact on the environment by using less land and resources to produce more food and milk. Each gallon of milk produced today requires 90 percent less land and 65 percent less water, with a 63 percent smaller carbon footprint than it did almost 70 years ago. In fact, U.S. farmers today are producing almost three times the amount of milk with about half the number of cows.

The increase in production of milk comes from genetic improvements, improved cow comfort, and advances in the diets and nutritional needs of dairy cows. The dairy industry is working hard to become even more sustainable. Healthy, well-treated cows produce high quality, nutritious dairy products.  Dairy farmers work to conserve resources such as water, land, and energy. They also carefully manage waste. Many farmers spread natural manure into the soil which reduces the amount of commercial fertilizers needed. Cows also have four stomachs, which means they can recycle food that people can’t eat, such as citrus pulp and cottonseed.

As we celebrate Earth Day in April, we can think about ways as a consumer that we can also make an impact on the environment. One thing we can do is be more mindful of food waste. Choose smaller portions and buy only what you will eat. Making healthy food choices that include dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, will help to keep you feeling fuller longer and give you a nutritious bang for your buck.

 

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