Muller launches Fast Track producer group to track emissions

Milk processor Muller has signed up 40 of its UK dairy producers to take part in a three-year programme monitoring on-farm emissions.

Farmers taking part in the programme will provide the processor with real-time data related to sustainability, such as fertility, production efficiency, and feed efficiency.

The findings from Muller’s Fast Track programme will then be used to establish which actions on farm can provide the easiest and quickest improvements to reduce emissions.

See also: Farmgate milk prices stay flat with processors cautious

Muller will work in partnership with Kite Consulting to carry out the programme, and farmers will receive access to Feedlync, a cloud-based feed management system, to input, track and compare their data.

Muller chief executive Rob Hutchison unveiled the Fast Track initiative at the Semex dairy conference in Glasgow on 13 January,

He said the programme was all about farm efficiency, sustainability and the importance of acting now to be fit for the future.

“We need to get on and improve sustainability on farm and improve the carbon footprint, and consumers then don’t need to worry about it,” he said. “Then they can enjoy our products without having to worry about the detail underneath.”

Muller expects the scheme to contribute towards its target of cutting the emissions of its supplier farms by 30% by 2030.

© Tim Scrivener

Rose Jackson, senior dairy consultant at Kite Consulting, said: “With the increased uptake of technology on dairy farms, more and more data is being created, but how can we best use this to make science-based decisions to accelerate the reduction in carbon emissions?

“Fast Track aims to tackle this question by scrutinising relevant [key performance indicators] and facilitating collaboration between a group of 40 innovative and highly efficient farmers.

“Initiatives such as these are key in our carbon reduction journey, and highlight the focus and determination of dairy farmers across the UK to lower footprints.”

David Craven, dairy manager at Grosvenor Farms, said: “Joining the Fast Track programme will help give farmers the ability to identify data-driven changes, and focus on the indicators which have the biggest impact on long-term farm resilience and sustainability.”

Muller rejoins Dairy UK

Muller also recently rejoined the industry body Dairy UK, to collaborate more within the processing sector.

The decision to rejoin Dairy UK was welcomed by producer organisation MMG Dairy Farmers, which represents farmers supplying Muller.

Dr Judith Bryans, chief executive of Dairy UK, said: “We’re delighted to confirm Muller to our membership, marking a significant step forward for industry collaboration. This reflects the value of collective action in addressing the pressing challenges and opportunities facing the UK dairy sector today.”

Mr Hutchison added: “The whole supply chain benefits if we can promote British dairy products both at home, and on the international stage, while ensuring sustainability is at the heart of the sector.

“So, for that reason, it makes perfect sense to join Dairy UK and we’re excited to get started.”