May 11, 2011

UK dairy farmers are the most productive in Europe

UK dairy farmers are among the most proficient in the EU, with breeding, feeding and management progressions experiencing average milk output per cow rising from 5,512 litres per cow per year in 1995/96 to 7,096 in 2009/10, according to new statistics.

Apparently, dairy farmers who are committed to making the industry more sustainable are reaping the rewards financially.

The news came at the launch of the expanded Dairy Roadmap report which highlighted the key achievements made since the launch of the Milk Roadmap in 2008.

As a result of these improvements, farmers are achieving similar amounts of milk from fewer animals which also reduce their impact on the environment at the same time.

Speaking at the Westminster launch on Monday (May 9), agriculture minister Jim Paice said the statistics spoke for themselves.

"We need to persuade the industry this is worthwhile. People say they are already struggling to make a profit but if we look at the figures, they show reducing your environmental impact is good for business. Better performing farms have the lowest carbon footprint.

"A competitive and sustainable dairy industry can go hand in hand with our obligations to each other and the planet."

Chairman of the Roadmap taskforce, Tim Bennett, added there was still work to do.

"We have been exemplary in tackling the environmental challenges but we are not complacent," he said.

"We are fully committed to modifying and developing the Dairy Roadmap whilst continuing to deliver high-quality, excellent product enjoyed every day by consumers."