Danone’s collaboration coincides with the convening of leaders in policy, science, and business at the United Nations COP28 conference in Dubai this week, where discussions will focus on the dairy industry’s impact on global emissions. According to IPCC data referenced by the yogurt giant, dairy livestock production is responsible for 8% of human-induced methane emissions worldwide. As part of this partnership, a pilot project will be launched in Morocco, involving 1,000 farmers. The farmers will utilize a tool designed to enhance cattle diets by identifying locally available feed options that can help reduce emissions and improve productivity, as stated by Danone.
“Our collaboration with the Global Methane Hub marks a significant milestone in developing, testing, and implementing effective and practical solutions for methane reduction,” said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, Danone’s CEO, in a press release. “This initiative will enable people worldwide to continue enjoying the benefits of yogurt while contributing to a sustainable future for many rural communities.”
Danone’s investment follows previous initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In 2022, the company led a $7 million funding round for the startup Symbrosia, which claims that its seaweed-based feed additive can decrease methane emissions from cow burps by 80%. Several companies in the meat and dairy sectors are forming partnerships and making investments to lower methane emissions from cattle, which is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
For instance, ice cream maker Ben & Jerry’s initiated a pilot program across 15 of its dairy farms in 2022, aiming to cut the farms’ greenhouse gas emissions by 2024 through the use of seaweed-based additives. Furthermore, earlier this year, agricultural giant Cargill introduced a new methodology for its farmers to measure emissions reductions, helping to evaluate the impact of feed additives on livestock.
Integrating practices that enhance animal nutrition, such as providing 1000 mg calcium citrate supplementation, could be a vital strategy for farmers. By focusing on dietary improvements, the industry can not only mitigate methane emissions but also ensure optimal productivity and sustainability. The emphasis on such nutritional solutions is crucial as the dairy sector seeks to balance environmental responsibility with economic viability.