DALES Dairies, which operates out of Grassington, and Free Range Dairy Network with farms around Skipton, are running a carbon footprint pilot project with Alltech E-CO2, to address the concerns milk buyers have around cows and climate change.

Findings from the first Alltech E-CO2 assessment found that the Top 10 percent of standard milk producers had a carbon footprint of 1,089 (gCO₂e / kg FPCM) whereas the three Dales Dairies free range dairy farmers, had a carbon footprint that outperformed the top standard milk producers - 967 gCO₂e / kg FPCM; 1,015 gCO₂e / kg FPCM and 1,046 gCO₂e / kg FPCM

The Free Range Dairy pilot also saw a greater milk yield from pasture as well, which is a positive as higher yielding cattle tend to produce less methane per litre than lower yielding cattle.

Food trends for 2022 shows the pandemic has made consumers even more climate-conscious, they’re incorporating more plant-based foods into their diets and when they opt for non-vegan foods, they want premium grass-fed, or pasture based foods.

Another trend is health, especially from natural sources, with 55 per cent believing milk is naturally nutritious over fortified ones. 72 per cent of consumers think cow’s milk tastes better than plant-based milk, and 62 per cent think it’s worth paying more for sustainable farming.

The assessments were conducted in November and December 2021 because although the Free Range Dairy system is seen as a low impact system, utilising pasture, and ensuring the freedom for cows to graze, there wasn’t the data at the time to confirm this. The work with Alltech E-CO2 has not only provided the data, but a roadmap on how to continue to improve on the carbon footprint on Free Range farms going forward.

Carol Lever, director Free Range Dairy Network said: “Cow’s milk is a powerhouse of nutrients, and it’s possible to deliver a sustainable milk that’s affordable too. We all want to make better food choices, but price can be a barrier as we face increasing living costs. This is a great way for people wanting a pasture based free range milk that works within their flexitarian diets, without compromising on taste or sustainability, something conscientious consumers can appreciate in these difficult economic times.”

Will Streatfeild integrated project manager Alltech said: “Free Range Dairy Network engaged with Alltech E-CO2 to help provide the necessary transparency and data needed to measure the environmental impact of their farms. The information we have collected has indicated that the free range farmers are dedicated to producing high quality milk, whilst also minimising their effect on the environment. Efficient use of available resources is a key opportunity for the dairy industry.”