Denmark and Thailand are making strides toward sustainability and addressing pressing environmental concerns, particularly related to agriculture. The Danish government has set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70 percent from 1990 levels by the year 2030. This regulatory framework targets livestock farming, as the sector significantly contributes to emissions through methane production.
Danish farmers will be confronted with a new taxation system where they will have to pay 300 kroner for every ton of carbon dioxide equivalent they emit by 2030, with projections to increase this rate to 750 kroner by 2035. This change aims to incentivize livestock farmers to implement practices reducing their carbon footprint, as livestock farming is responsible for methane emissions, which have more warming potential than carbon dioxide.
Meanwhile, companies like Nestlé Thailand are stepping up to demonstrate sustainable agricultural models through regenerative farming. Wasilila Sihaphan, the Managing Director of Nestlé (Thailand) Co., Ltd., stated, "Our goal is to protect and restore the environment through sustainable sourcing." With over 40 years of collaboration with local dairy farmers, Nestlé is integrating regenerative agriculture techniques aiming at both environmental protection and improved farmer livelihoods.
A sustainable model of dairy farming not only supports the environment but also enhances the quality and quantity of milk produced, responding to consumer needs. Nestlé has emphasized the significance of sourcing high-quality milk from farms practicing sustainability, stating, “By promoting regenerative practices, we are ensuring the long-term viability of our dairy supply.”
Thai dairy farmers face challenges like rising feed costs and decreasing milk production rates, yet the market for ready-to-drink dairy products has grown by 7 percent this year. Nestlé's approach to regenerative agriculture involves effective waste management, energy efficiency, and improving soil health to mitigate the negative impacts associated with dairy farming, including methane emissions.
Through innovative practices, such as turning cattle manure from waste to value, these farmers can generate additional income, estimated at 40,000 baht per year. This aligns with the efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and aims to reach the “Net Zero” target by 2050.
Global awareness of the environmental impacts of livestock farming has led to similar initiatives beyond Denmark. New Zealand recently proposed legislation to tackle livestock emissions. Although met with resistance and eventually removed, it shows the growing recognition of the need for regulatory measures against carbon emissions from the agricultural sector.
Sustainability efforts are central to combating climate change and securing food sources for the future. Effective models from Denmark can serve as examples for other nations, showcasing the practical integration of regulatory measures and sustainable agricultural practices. Adopting these principles globally is necessary to share the responsibilities for our planet's well-being.
With the growing demand for environmentally friendly products, initiatives like those from Nestlé and other agricultural companies can significantly influence consumer choices and align health with sustainability. The collaboration with farmers could set the stage for more comprehensive action addressing climate change, as well as create economic opportunities for those cultivating the earth responsibly.
Moving forward, Turkey, Thailand, and other nations have the opportunity to observe Denmark's method of fostering sustainability within agriculture and strive toward similar evolution. This path is not merely beneficial for the environment, but instrumental for generating economic opportunities, enhancing food quality, and encouraging responsible production practices.
