Is low carbon milk possible in any system?
- Bruna Silper
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
In a world increasingly aware of the environmental impacts of food production, low-carbon milk emerges as a possible and necessary goal. However, there's a common misconception in this discussion: believing that only pasture-raised milk can be considered sustainable. The truth is that every production system, from extensive to confined, can make progress in reducing emissions, as long as well-planned practices are adopted and tailored to the specific needs of each farm.
In this article, we explore the main pathways to making dairy production efficient, profitable, and with a low climate impact, based on scientific approaches, data from the National GHG Emissions Inventory, and field experiences.
What does “low carbon” mean in dairy farming?
Producing low-carbon milk doesn't mean zeroing emissions, but rather reducing the intensity of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per liter of milk produced , considering the entire chain from the farm gate inward. This includes enteric methane, waste management, food origin and use, energy use, among others.
Why is methane such a concern?
Methane (CH₄), emitted primarily through enteric fermentation in ruminants, has a global warming potential 28 times greater than CO₂ over a 100-year horizon. Even with its short atmospheric lifetime, an advantage over CO₂, methane's contribution to global warming is significant and immediate.
Therefore, reducing these emissions is strategic both from a climate perspective and for the competitiveness of the dairy chain, which is already beginning to be held accountable for environmental indicators.
Productive efficiency: the key piece
Regardless of the production model, the more milk a cow produces , the lower the GHG emissions per liter of milk. This is the basis of the concept of emissions intensity. Improvements in genetics, feed management, and health directly contribute to this efficiency and reduce milk's carbon footprint.
In confined systems, for example, precision feeding and individual monitoring allow significant gains in performance and efficiency, reducing the carbon footprint.
Well-maintained pastures help, but they are not exclusive
Yes, well-managed pastures can act as carbon sinks , storing CO₂ in the soil and contributing to a more favorable balance of net emissions. However, it's important to emphasize that this doesn't make other systems inefficient in terms of carbon footprint . Low carbon can also be achieved in feedlots, with the adoption of technologies and good environmental practices.
Therefore, the focus needs to be less on where the cow is and more on how it is managed.
Waste management: problem or solution?
Another significant source of emissions is waste management. Methane released during the decomposition of feces and urine can be captured and converted into energy , using biodigesters, for example. Composting can mitigate emissions and also generate high-quality organic fertilizer.
Here again, all systems can reap results, as long as they apply solutions adapted to their reality.
Measuring is the first step
The decision to reduce emissions begins with quantifying the carbon footprint . Tools like PEC Calc allow you to determine GHG emissions per liter of milk produced based on real data from each farm. This information is essential for identifying critical points, setting targets, and monitoring progress in reducing the carbon footprint.
More than just a number, calculating and understanding the carbon footprint of each farm's milk is a step toward strategic management, whether of the farm or dairy, demonstrating commitment to sustainability and demonstrating the results of the measures adopted over time.
Everyone can contribute
There is no single model for sustainability. What exists is the real possibility of transforming the current production system into an efficient, resilient, and climate-friendly model , whether based on pasture, semi-confinement, or full confinement.
With knowledge, technical assistance and technology, each farm can find its own way to produce low-carbon milk.
Milk and climate: where do we want to go?
The future of dairy farming is directly linked to the ability to innovate and adapt. Being part of the global climate solution is no longer a choice, but rather a growing demand from society, markets, and public policies.
Investing in low-carbon strategies means investing in the longevity of the activity, in the appreciation of the product and the sector, and in building a more balanced future for rural activity and the planet .
Want to take the first step?
Reducing emissions starts with a diagnosis. The PEC Calc tool allows you to quickly and easily calculate your farm's carbon footprint. With this indicator, you can identify key emission points and inform customized mitigation strategies.
