Result description
COVERE² stands for collecting, verification, reducing and reporting greenhouse gases. COVERE² is a combination of consultancy services, tools and technology solutions. LCA of milk production provides COVERE2 with a comprehensive case study and benchmark, ultimately enhancing the quality and transferability of its services. LCA was conducted at the Viikki Research Farm in Finland to determine the carbon footprint of milk production and identify mitigation strategies. Data collected over two years (2022-2023) were analyzed using two carbon footprint calculators: Solagro and Cool Farm Tool. Improving feed efficiency, N fertilizer adjustments, better manure management, and renewable energy adoption showed promise in reducing the CF of milk production.
A life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted at the Viikki Research Farm in Finland to determine the carbon footprint of milk production and identify mitigation strategies. Data collected over two years (2022-2023) were analyzed using two carbon footprint calculators: Solagro and Cool Farm Tool. Results indicated that feed production and enteric fermentation were the primary contributors to the milk carbon footprint. However, variations were observed in results of the total GHG emissions due to methodological differences employed by the two calculators. Improving feed efficiency through optimized diets, nitrogen fertilizer adjustments, better manure management, and renewable energy adoption showed promise in reducing the carbon footprint of milk production.
Addressing target audiences and expressing needs
- Business partners – SMEs, Entrepreneurs, Large Corporations
- Business plan development
- Use of research Infrastructure
Agrofood business, food system actors, sustainability expert
- EU and Member State Policy-makers
- Other Actors who can help us fulfil our market potential
- Academia/ Universities
R&D, Technology and Innovation aspects
This research highlights the need for further investigation into the sensitivity of various factors influencing GHG emissions. Harmonization of LCA methodologies is crucial for achieving more consistent assessments that inform evidence-based policies toward net-zero goals. Moreover, accurately accounting for soil organic carbon stock changes into LCA is crucial to minimize bias in CF estimations.
Our business partner Eleks, leading European software company, is providing application of these results in their service portal
This is validated science based solution and method.
a sustainable business model focuses on adding value to stakeholders, the environment and society in agrifood sector.
- Europe
Result submitted to Horizon Results Platform by HELSINGIN YLIOPISTO
