EIT Food Report: Holistic Transformation for Europe's Beef and Dairy Sectors
A new report by EIT Food suggests a holistic transformation for Europe's beef and dairy sectors, aiming to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, enhance animal welfare, and maintain profitability. The report identifies four key projects to achieve these goals, each focusing on different aspects of sustainability.
The first project, Animal Feed Testing for Greenhouse Gas Reduction, targets methane emissions by improving livestock feed. This initiative aims to boost both animal health and productivity. Meanwhile, the second project, Farmer Incentive Scheme Testing, explores ways to link sustainability measurements directly to economic rewards, encouraging farmers to adopt greener practices.
The third initiative, Farmer Upskilling on Sustainable Practices, develops targeted training programmes to educate farmers about regenerative practices and greenhouse gas reduction. This project seeks to empower farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to transition towards more sustainable farming methods.
The fourth project, the One Health Best Practice Advocacy Group, simplifies compliance, develops policy recommendations, and advocates for evidence-based advice. This group promotes the 'One Health' approach, which recognises the interdependence of human, animal, and ecosystem health, fostering a win-win situation for all.
The report's three pillars for systemic change - farmer value, animal health and welfare, and data reporting - provide a comprehensive roadmap for Europe's beef and dairy sectors. By embracing these projects, the industry can strive towards a more sustainable future, balancing environmental responsibility with profitability and animal welfare.
