Minister Schouten receives billionth litre of ’On the way to PlanetProof’-milk

FrieslandCampina’s member dairy farmer and On the way to PlanetProof participant Bert Vollering symbolically presented this billionth litre of more sustainable milk to Minister Schouten on behalf of the three certified dairy organisations. She also talked to participating dairy farmers. The minister noticed how much the quality mark demands of their business operations: “It is very clear to me that farmers are working every day to ensure that their business operations meet the requirements of On the way to PlanetProof. And that they farm even “sharper” than they already did. That benefits the cow and calf, nature and the climate. ” Watch the video below (in Dutch).

Sustainable steps with On the way to PlanetProof
The On the way to PlanetProof quality mark is integral: it’s about acting more sustainable on several themes. The challenge is to score well on all themes. Dairy farmers must meet animal health and welfare, biodiversity and climate requirements. In addition, the milk must meet soil-bound and grazing criteria.

By connecting the quality mark to digital measuring instruments of the sector, dairy farmers know where they stand in relation to the requirements of the quality mark. With the integrated approach, 700 dairy farmers work simultaneously on multiple sustainability themes. “And that has a positive impact, which fits in well with the regenerative vision of my ministry,” said the minister.

Minister Schouten noticed that On the way to PlanetProof has become so visible on the supermarket shelf in such a short time. “It is very good that the reputation of the quality mark has grown so quickly. It is an established name in the Netherlands and it stands for something, that is clear. ”

Top sport and teamwork
For member dairy farmers Bert and Adrie Vollering it means top sport and teamwork. “We are very proud of what we have achieved together. It is really hard work and continuously tweaking in the business operations. The fact that you simultaneously work on three themes means that you can compare On the way to PlanetProof with a triathlon. As a farmer you have to perform well in all respects and you must all do everything you can to stay in it. It gives energy to contribute to future-proof dairy farming. ”