IDF publishes sustainability bulletin for dairy industry

The International Dairy Federation (IDF) has published a new bulletin about the use of eco-friendly and energy-saving dairy technologies.

The purpose of the guidelines is to help sustainability managers and leaders to improve energy management across the dairy supply chain. The dairy industry has in the past adopted energy saving and sustainability measures and has done so without food safety or security compromises. However, the available technologies are constantly changing — the bulletin outlines changes and developments for dairy processors to keep abreast of so that sustainability can be integrated into the sector.

For instance, technologies such as expanded combined heat and power units and trigeneration methods, as well as solar panelling methodologies, are becoming available that can increase eco-friendly energy production. Research is also extending the shelf-life of milk concentrates which allows for reduced energy use.

“Sustainability is one of the four pillars of IDF, and thus we are determined to develop and promote sustainable practices across the dairy supply chain,” said Caroline Emond, Director General of IDF.

“As part of this determination, we have decided to actively contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG7. This is not just an expression of goodwill, but an irrevocable commitment. Eco-friendly practices and energy-saving technologies are very much aligned with this goal.”

The bulletin is available for purchase on the IDF website.

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