Why buy a rainforest?

What is sustainability? If it means good or better farming, how are we going to prove it? Livestock farming is not so bad, but lack of clear facts means that too much is assumed; discussions about sustainability are based on subjective observations and not facts, this leads to confusion. Some often take advantage of this and as a result we end up with an ill-informed society pointing accusing fingers based on emotion. At Inno+ we decided to broaden our knowledge in order to grade sustainability. This put us on track to have a meaningful discussion about the carbon footprint of pig and poultry production, and how we as a company can do something to improve it. Next week, in the final article of my series, I will discuss “Green label Farming” and how we can turn the information provided by carbon scoring into a profitable revenue model for livestock farmers in Belgium.

1. Economy – If our Belgian farmers cannot remain profitable, there will be no production and therefore no food.
2. Welfare – This form of animal husbandry involves animals. And if we are to use them as a food source, they deserve at least a life worth living and should experience good welfare while in our care. Moreover, an animal that experiences good welfare performs better, is therefore more profitable and has less impact on the environment.
3. Environment – the demand for food with a growing population is at such a level that we need to make sure we have enough resources to grow it; at the same time, we need to make sure that the processes we use do not destroy the planet.

The concepts offered by Inno+ address all three areas of sustainability; however, the basis of what we do is based on improving the planet and reducing the environmental impact of livestock production.

We formulated the results in a report.

Our work encouraged us to review our performance in terms of our carbon profile, and the impact our systems had in relation to our carbon footprint. There were a number of key reasons for doing this:

1. Provide our clients with proof of the benefits Inno+ provides them with respect to supplier carbon friendliness.
2. To show larger organizations the benefits our systems can provide on larger farm sites (multiple barns). These could be integrations, feed companies or retailers (supermarkets). All looking for carbon credits which are more locally beneficial; as opposed to buying credits to look good.
3. Governments – by setting clear rules for emissions reduction from livestock farms, the net effect could be significantly better. Moreover, if subsidies are to be paid, why not based on actual figures on the improvement of CO2 emissions as part of the “license to produce.” That way they can obtain carbon credit at the same time.
4. Retailers – by developing a brand strategy around “Green Label Farming” in relation to emissions reductions from livestock farms, and charging a small premium for this, this could go a long way in helping farmers meet current emissions targets. This could act as a “Carbon credit” for the companies and brands involved.