TOWARD NET-ZERO

Actions That Reduce Emissions On Dairy Farms

On a dairy farm, steps toward efficiency often equal conservation, process improvement and taking better care of resources. The results can be impressive: increased production efficiency, enriched soils, improved cropping practices, and of course, lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Using Dairy Farmers of Canada’s recently released Net Zero by 2050 Best Management Practices Guide to Mitigate Emissions on Dairy Farms, here are some examples of one practice in five areas where producers can make an impact on the road to Net-Zero.

2. Feed Production PRACTICING 4R

NUTRIENT STEWARDSHIP

Optimizing the rate of fertilizer applied over the growing season by taking into consideration the availability of nutrients from all sources and testing soil annually for available nutrients may reduce fertilizer use rates and improve efficiency.

3. Manure Management

To reduce GHG emissions, cover liquid manure storage systems to prevent them from being released into the atmosphere or separate manure into liquids and solids

4. Infrastructure

Reducing energy use can lower GHG emissions and energy costs Any improvement to efficiency can also reduce on-farm energy demand.

5. Land Management

Planting trees and shelterbelts on dairy farms has many benefits, and may reduce soil erosion , improve air and water quality, and enhance biodiversity.