In the Dairy Unit we have discussed the environmental, economic, social, animal welfare, and now this week, nutrition and food processing aspects of the dairy industry in Canada. Which of these aspects do you think is the most important with respect to dairy system sustainability and why? Remember that "sustainability" includes economic, social, and environmental dimensions.

 

All of the factors stated above are very important with respect to the sustainability of the dairy industry in Canada. Without one of each aspect, the said industry would not have succeeded and lasted over the years. But Animal welfare, or the welfare of the cows is the most important aspect, for they are the source and the reason that this industry exists.

Step-by-step explanation

Over the last several decades, dairy farmers in Canada, along with their government, have invested in research to learn more about cows. Caring for the quality of life of all cows is fundamental part of the values of dairy farmers. They work closely with stakeholders and experts on animal safety, health, and well-being initiatives. For Canadian dairy farmers, cows have always been a part of their families. Treating them with dignity and respect is more than just good business. Their commitment to animal care is the reason why Canadian dairy farmers have taken the lead in framing animal care standards for the Canadian Dairy Industry. This commitment extends beyond outfitting barns with soft, cozy beddings, ensuring each cow has space it needs to easily move around, or providing them with fresh feed that corresponds to their nutritional needs.

But sustainability is not only about looking after the animal welfare, but is also Environmental.

Canadian farmers commonly feed their cattle corn or barley as high nutrient food sources to increase milk production. Although both are efficient and economic sources of feed, these two are responsible for large amount of Green House Gas in Canada. Preserving the environment is a central value for Canadian dairy farmers. In order to solve this problem with Green House Gas(GHG), the Dairy Farmers of Canada conducted two life cycle assessments (LCA) to measure their impact and identify areas for improvement. This resulted to Canada's dairy farming small footprint, with the dairy sector representing only 1% of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions.

Aside from the environmental aspect, sustainability must also deliver Social and Economic benefits.

Dairy Farming generates employment from coast to coast, bringing economic development even to rural areas. Canadian dairy industry is a key driver of Canada's national economy and represents one of the largest agri-food industries in the country. The industry is subjected to the system of Supply Management. Under supply management, farmers manage their production so that it coincides with forecasts of demand for their products over a predetermined period. This will prevent milk surplus and waste.