Dr. Aprna Sharma, Department of Dairy Technology,
College of Dairy Science and Food Technology, DSVCKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India

Introduction
Milk processing is an energy- and resource-intensive sector that contributes significantly to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to the use of fossil fuels, electricity, and water in operations like pasteurization, homogenization, chilling, and packaging. The global dairy industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, particularly greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Milk processing, a critical stage in the dairy supply chain, contributes significantly to carbon emissions through energy consumption (fossil fuels and electricity), transportation, packaging, and waste management. The concept of carbon neutral milk processing aims to balance carbon emissions through energy-efficient processes, renewable energy sources, and sustainable waste and water management. This approach is vital to achieving climate goals, reducing environmental footprint, and ensuring long-term industry resilience. This holistic approach encompasses:

I. Reducing emissions through energy efficiency and waste minimization.

II. Replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources.

III. Offsetting unavoidable emissions through carbon sequestration projects.

Achieving carbon neutrality is not just an environmental imperative; it also offers economic benefits through reduced energy costs and enhanced brand reputation among eco-conscious consumers.

Carbon neutrality means achieving net-zero CO₂ emissions by balancing released emissions with removal/offsetting. This involves:




For processors, neutrality isn't just eco-compliance—it cuts operational costs by 18-30% (IDFA, 2023) while meeting consumer demand for sustainable products.

2. Applications in Industry

Area

Technology/Practice

Outcome

Energy Supply

Solar panels, Biogas plants

Reduced fossil fuel dependence

Water Management

Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD), Rainwater Harvesting

Minimal water pollution

Heat Utilization

Heat exchangers, Heat recovery systems

Lower thermal energy consumption

Waste Utilization

Manure to biogas, composting

Waste-to-energy conversion

Packaging & Transport

Eco-friendly packaging, Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Low-carbon distribution

3. Case Study: Arla Foods, UK

Goal: Carbon-neutral milk by 2035

1. Solutions Implemented

On-site Renewables:
  • 4,500 rooftop solar panels (1.1 MW capacity)
  • Biomethane boilers fueled by farm waste

2. Zero-Waste Process:



3. Green Logistics:
  • Electric milk tankers (150km range)
  • Optimized routes reducing transport emissions 22%

4. Results (2020-2023):
  • Scope 1 & 2 emissions down 58%
  • Production costs reduced by £1.2M/year
  • Achieved PAS 2060 carbon neutrality certification
5. Challenges & Opportunities
Carbon neutral milk processing combines environmental stewardship with economic practicality. By utilizing renewable energy (solar, biogas), industries can reduce operational costs and dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets. Water reuse and ZLD systems not only meet environmental regulations but also ensure sustainable water availability, especially in water-scarce regions. Adoption of electric vehicles and biodegradable packaging reduces the overall carbon footprint from farm to consumer. Furthermore, carbon neutrality adds value to dairy brands, meeting the rising consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

This model aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and India's net Zero Emissions by 2070 vision. Scaling such practices across cooperatives and private dairies can transform the entire dairy sector sustainably.