DSF Indicator Development
DSF Indicator Development
As you are aware, the DSF is a Framework that is designed to convey the continuous sustainability improvement of the dairy sector globally. In October this year (at the DSF members meeting – Rotterdam October 14) we will launch the first two indicators for GHG Emissions and Animal Care.
At the recent multi-stakeholder Advisory Council meeting the need for the indicators to be implemented more rapidly than originally planned was highlighted. As such the next five ‘indicators’ have been identified for development, with the aim of all being launched in 2017.
The role of the indicator
- To be an actual or a proxy ‘measure' that can provide an indication of progress towards an individual criteria's strategic intent.
- To be able to be collected globally – i.e. Can we get the data in all (or the majority of) dairying regions of the world
- Can be aggregated to allow the picture of progress to be generated.
- We will also consider higher level proxies if available and enable the same outcome specific to dairy…
Before the Governors launch into the development of the agreed indicators, they would firstly like to ask the membership (or even non-members) whether they already have systems or indicators in place that could potentially be used by the DSF on a global basis.
The Framework would prefer to align with other measurement systems already in use by the sector as opposed to developing additional indicators. If you are aware of, or are currently using, indicators that could be considered as suitable for any of the below please do let the DSF Secretariat know before Friday October 14.
Agreed Indicators and their Strategic Intents:
- Soil Nutrients – Nutrient application is managed to minimise impacts on water and air, while maintaining and enhancing soil quality.
- Water – Water availability, as well as water quality, is managed responsibly throughout the dairy value chain.
- Soil – Soil quality and retention is proactively managed and enhanced to ensure optimal quality.
- Biodiversity – Direct and indirect biodiversity risks and opportunities are understood, and strategies to maintain or enhance it are established.
- Working Conditions – Across the dairy value chain, workers operate in a safe environment, and their rights are respected and promoted.