Dairy Farm Sustainability

As caretakers of animals and the land, sustainability isn't just an initiative for our farmers – it's a way of life and a responsibility to future generations. At Dairy Farmers of America, we are constantly focused on finding new, innovative ways to conserve resources, reduce waste and work efficiently — on farms, in plants and on the road. We are committed to developing solutions and sharing them with others in order to give farm families the opportunity to work the same land for years to come.
Man walking by the solar panelsMan walking by the solar panels

Dairy Farm Sustainability

As caretakers of animals and the land, sustainability isn't just an initiative for our farmers – it's a way of life and a responsibility to future generations. At Dairy Farmers of America, we are constantly focused on finding new, innovative ways to conserve resources, reduce waste and work efficiently — on farms, in plants and on the road. We are committed to developing solutions and sharing them with others in order to give farm families the opportunity to work the same land for years to come.

Achieving a sustainable future

Taking care of our planet isn't just an initiative — it's a responsibility that's taken to heart. As leaders in sustainability, we're working toward a net zero or net negative carbon footprint for our Cooperative and U.S. dairy. Here’s how we are achieving our commitment to a sustainable future:

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Our sustainability pillars

Our people

We put our people first, on and off the farm. We want all of our employees and farmers to thrive, which is why we provide a safe place to work and support positive workplace culture.

Our planet

The success of our business – today and for future generations – relies on the health and well-being of our farmers' cows and the environment.

Our communities

We enrich our communities with the nutritional goodness of dairy, by providing a direct connection to where their food comes from and through ongoing community service efforts.

Sustainability in action

On our family farms

Sustainability is key to the longevity and growth of our family farms. That's why we're constantly researching and re-evaluating best practices to benefit the environment and the world. One example is the use of renewable energy methods, such as wind turbines, solar power and even methane digesters that convert animal manure to energy.
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Our affiliations

As leaders in the dairy industry, we're proud to advance sustainability initiatives in collaboration with the following organizations: 
  • Global Dairy Platform, committed to responsible and sustainable food production
  • International Dairy Federation, supporting dairy nutrition and sustainability research
  • Dairy Sustainability Framework, which developed a sustainability framework and criteria for the global dairy industry
  • Global Dairy Agenda for Action, demonstrating the dairy industry's support, work and alignment with the UN's Sustainability Development Goals

DFA's adoption of the U.S. Dairy Stewardship Commitment affirms our pledge to responsible dairy production as we nourish the communities we serve. For more information about social and environmental sustainability, visit U.S. DAIRY STEWARDSHIP COMMITMENT.

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