CB BureauThe initiative, called We Make it Possible, will lead a ‘robust and achievable transformation’ worldwide in sustainable animal protein production, and accelerate solutions that will foster a brighter future, as per the official press release issued by DSM Animal Nutrition and Health.
As the world’s population grows, demand for animal protein will continue to rise. Over time, this need for ever-increasing quantities of animal protein, which is already placing tremendous pressure on our planet’s finite natural resources, will lead to significant environmental strain, and take our food systems well beyond the planet’s boundaries. The need to provide enough animal protein for a growing population, while reducing the environmental costs of farming will require smart science and innovative solutions. And DSM’s initiative means to rise to this challenge.
Stating that ‘the agriculture industry can transform itself from within,’ DSM’s Animal Nutrition and Health President Ivo Lansbergen articulates: ‘For too long, sustainability has been someone else’s problem, a problem for tomorrow. But it is not an impossible challenge. We believe we can make animal farming sustainable. Our need is to be providing a decent living for farmers and affordable proteins to the world population, all while reducing the footprint of animal farming. We Make it Possible is a commitment to tangible and actionable solutions that cater to the customers we care most about: people and planet earth.
‘This strategic initiative reflects our commitment not only to be part of the value chain but to be a change agent, steering the global conversations, connecting the various stakeholders of the farming ecosystem, thinking ahead, generating ideas and new ways of working. If not now, when?’
Aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals 2 (zero hunger), 3 (good health and wellbeing), 12 (responsible consumption and production), 13 (climate action), and 14 (life below water), the initiative is driven by six sustainability platforms that will address the major challenges facing the animal farming industry. These are:
- Improving the lifetime performance of farm animals
- Improving the quality of food (i.e., meat, milk, fish, eggs), while reducing food loss and waste
- Reducing emissions from livestock
- Making efficient use of natural resources
- Reducing the reliance on marine resources
- Helping tackle antimicrobial resistance
‘By applying our science, innovation and sustainability leadership behind these key areas, we believe we can make a substantial difference to the sustainability of the animal protein industry,’ says David Nickell, VP of Sustainability & Business Solutions at DSM Animal Nutrition and Health. ‘At DSM, we are taking responsibility for our own role in protecting the planet, and have and continue to develop business solutions that enable the industry to make affordable and measurable improvements in the sustainability of animal protein, and we hope that many others will follow suit.’