Milking a zebu in Nigeria B. Faye © CIRAD

Dairy

Dairy chains are largely controlled by the main agrifood giants. However, they also involve more than 120 million small farms worldwide. Is the current boom in agroindustry a threat to the long-term future of these smallholders, or might it be a development opportunity? How can we arbitrate between the economic, environmental and social impacts of current policies? CIRAD is working with local stakeholders to assess the sustainability of the current changes in the sector. Along with its partners, it has research and development programmes and platforms in partnership for research and training that develop innovations aimed at optimizing the interactions between livestock production and the environment.

Our remits

Characterizing the multi-functionality of dairy production systems by assessing the environmental and social services provided by livestock production, in addition to its economic role.
Developing multi-criteria indicators of the sustainability of livestock farms, tailored to every context; talking to local stakeholders about the "threshold" values that should not be exceeded, in order to steer policy and good practice.
Supporting the development of innovative technical systems, in liaison with local professional organizations and processing firms.
Characterizing the range of expertise, genetic resources and products.
Redefining the role of the State and local government services in applying standards, controlling land tenure and managing territories.
Characterizing the main health risks associated with dairy farming and dairy product consumption.
Supporting the development and monitoring of equitable, sustainable certification schemes.