As the world’s largest milk producer, India’s dairy sector is crucial for the livelihoods of millions of farmers and the nutritional needs of its population. However, the sector also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
In the dairy sector, enteric fermentation is the primary source of emissions, accounting for roughly 70% of the total greenhouse gases (GHGs) from cradle to farm-gate. Contributions from manure management, feed production, and on-farm energy uses are also significant, representing approximately 15%, 10%, and 5% of emissions, respectively.
The economic and demographic contexts compound the severity of these emissions, as India’s population heavily depends on agriculture and dairy production for livelihoods.
The domestic dairy sector, characterised by smallholder farmers relying on traditional practices, often lacks the resources and knowledge to implement sustainable methods. A multifaceted approach is required, and this involves improved livestock management, better manure handling, advanced feed technologies, and enhanced production efficiency.
Supporting smallholder farmers through education and resources is also important for the adoption of sustainable practices and the mitigation of the environmental impact of dairying.
Actions towards sustainability
In a strategic shift toward energy solutions, milk cooperatives like AMUL are investigating methods to derive hydrogen from the methane produced during the biogas process.
Large corporations with extensive carbon footprints are increasingly held accountable for their environmental impact. Therefore, they can leverage investments in sustainable practices, such as biogas production from cow dung in partnership with dairy cooperatives, to significantly cut carbon emissions. Such collaboration not only aids in achieving carbon neutrality but also supports rural economies and sustainable agriculture.
Moreover, forming strategic partnerships with dairy cooperatives allows corporations to tap into existing infrastructures and networks, benefiting from their deep understanding of rural supply chains and community dynamics.
As for smallholder dairy farms, they can improve animal health and productivity while lowering environmental impact by accurately tailoring feed to the nutritional needs of each cow through precision feeding technology. In this manner, an efficient use of resources can be ensured.
By also diversifying into other renewable energy sources like solar and wind, cooperatives can create more robust, sustainable energy solutions. This approach could serve as a model to achieve energy self-sufficiency in rural areas, ultimately leading to a greener, more sustainable agricultural sector.
– Dr. Dinesh Bhosale