Almost 80% of Lakeland Dairies suppliers have reduced their chemical fertiliser usage over the last five years, a survey of 150 suppliers has found.

Over two-thirds (68%) of respondents are now using protected urea, a more environmentally friendly fertiliser, while 64% of farmers have introduced clover into their swards in the last five years.

Niall Matthews, chair of Lakeland Dairies, praised the efforts by farmers.

“Our farm families are demonstrating exceptional commitment to sustainability, as shown by these encouraging survey results.

"By reducing chemical nitrogen usage, incorporating clover, and adopting protected urea, our farmers are not only enhancing environmental stewardship but also adding value to their farming operations.”

“Lakeland Dairies is deeply committed to sustainability, and this is central to our Pathway to a Better Future initiative. We are dedicated to supporting our farmers in implementing sustainable practices that benefit both their livelihoods and the environment. We will continue to support our farmers on this journey.”

Rewards

In November 2023, Lakeland Daires launched its farm sustainability programme, Farming a Better Future.

Central to this is the sustainability incentive payment which rewards farmers for implementing practices that contribute to environmental, economic, and social sustainability.

Over 95% of milk suppliers to Lakeland Dairies has signed up for the payment. Farmers who have signed up to the initiative receive a monthly 0.5c/l or 0.5p/l payment.

To qualify for the payment, farmers carry out a specific number of measures from a list provided to them.

Lakeland Dairies’ farm families have embraced the initiative with over 12,000 individual measures being implemented across our catchment area.