FrieslandCampina and Mars have teamed up to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions in dairy production. By introducing innovative climate-smart practices and offering financial rewards to dairy farms, they aim to reduce emissions by 33% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. This collaboration supports FrieslandCampina’s goal of net climate-neutral dairy by 2050 and helps Mars meet its sustainability targets.
In a significant move towards sustainability, FrieslandCampina and Mars have announced a groundbreaking partnership aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in dairy production. This collaboration represents a major step forward in the quest for climate-smart practices within the dairy industry, with ambitious targets to cut emissions by 33% by next year and up to 50% by 2030 compared to 2015 levels. This partnership aligns with FrieslandCampina’s commitment to achieving “net climate-neutral dairy” by 2050.
FrieslandCampina is one of the world’s largest dairy cooperatives, representing over 14,000 member farms. The cooperative is known for its high-quality dairy products and a strong focus on sustainability. FrieslandCampina has a long history of working with various stakeholders to improve dairy farming practices and reduce environmental impact.
Mars, Incorporated is a leading global food company, renowned for its popular brands such as M&M’s, Snickers, and Twix. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Mars has been collaborating with FrieslandCampina for over 30 years, sourcing dairy ingredients for its products. The company is dedicated to integrating climate-smart practices into its supply chain to drive environmental improvements.
Details of the Partnership
The collaboration between FrieslandCampina and Mars focuses on integrating innovative GHG emission reduction practices within dairy production. Key aspects of the partnership include:
- Feed Additives: Mars supports the use of specialised feed additives designed to reduce methane emissions from cows, a major contributor to GHG emissions in dairy farming.
- Innovative Technologies: The partnership is committed to developing and applying new technologies to further decrease GHG emissions in dairy production.
Mars is also providing financial incentives to encourage farmers to adopt these climate-smart practices. FrieslandCampina’s cooperative model supports this initiative by rewarding member farms through the “Foqus planet Sustainable Development Program.”
Farmer Initiatives and Financial Support
FrieslandCampina’s cooperative structure is integral to this initiative, enabling effective implementation of sustainability measures. The Foqus planet Sustainable Development Program rewards member farms for achievements in animal health, climate, biodiversity, and outdoor grazing.
Key Financial Support Data:
- 2023 Premiums: FrieslandCampina’s dairy farmers received over €245 million (US$264.2 million) in premiums for sustainability efforts.
- Foqus planet Incentives: €190 million (US$207 million) of the premiums were awarded through the Foqus planet incentive system.
In the first half of 2024, over 600 member farms joined the development group, committing to additional GHG reductions through innovative measures.
Impact and Future Prospects
This partnership serves as a model for how industry collaboration can drive substantial environmental improvements. The focus on sustainability and climate-smart practices is setting a new standard in the dairy sector. The success of this project may lead to further business-to-business partnerships and broader implementation of these practices, contributing to a more sustainable dairy supply chain and supporting global climate goals.
Comparative Impact Data: Traditional Dairy Production vs. FrieslandCampina and Mars Partnership
| Aspect | Traditional Dairy Production | FrieslandCampina and Mars Partnership |
| GHG Emissions Reduction | Baseline | 33% reduction by 2025, up to 50% by 2030 |
| Farmer Premiums | Variable | Over €245 million (US$264.2 million) in 2023 |
| Incentive System | Limited | €190 million (US$207 million) through Foqus planet |
| Number of Participating Farms | Few | Over 600 farms joined in 2024 |
The partnership between FrieslandCampina and Mars is paving the way for a more sustainable dairy industry by combining scientific expertise, financial incentives, and climate-smart practices. This collaboration highlights the importance of industry partnerships in achieving significant environmental goals and advancing sustainability in dairy production. As this initiative progresses, it will likely influence broader industry practices and contribute to global climate objectives.
