Dairy farmers are stepping forward to lead new climate solutions through a program that helps measure and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on farms.
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and Farmers for Sustainable Food have launched EmPower+, a farmer-led, data-driven initiative that links on-farm innovation to the environmental goals of the dairy value chain.
Farmer-Led and Whole-Farm Focused
EmPower+ takes a whole-farm approach to improving environmental performance. The program supports farmers with data tools and verified methods to track and lower emissions in every area of their operation. This includes cow care, feed efficiency, crop production, and manure management.
“Dairy farmers are ready to lead the next generation of environmental solutions,” said Tim Trotter, CEO of Edge and its affiliate, Farmers for Sustainable Food. “For too long, sustainability programs have been one-size-fits-all. Dairy farms are complex ecosystems, and lasting progress means looking at the full picture.”
Turning Data Into Action
Built on the global Greenhouse Gas Protocol, EmPower+ provides a consistent and transparent system for measuring and reporting verified reductions in emissions.
Participating farms receive detailed data support and reports that highlight where efficiencies can be gained. The information is confidential between the farmer and processor but can also be used to show verified Scope 3 emission reductions across the supply chain.
Farmers can join independently or through their processor. In either case, they gain practical insights that help improve efficiency and environmental performance.
Shared Value for the Entire Dairy Chain
EmPower+ benefits both farmers and processors.
For farmers, it offers a clear picture of how management choices affect emissions. With this knowledge, they can make informed decisions to reduce input costs and improve long-term sustainability.
For processors, the verified data helps meet reporting requirements and demonstrate measurable climate progress. As a result, EmPower+ builds a stronger connection between on-farm actions and corporate sustainability goals.
In addition, the program lays the groundwork for future opportunities to recognize and reward environmental performance through milk procurement.
Positioning Dairy for the Future
EmPower+ reflects the dairy sector’s growing commitment to sustainability through practical, science-based solutions. It connects credible data with real-world innovation, creating a model that is transparent, farmer-focused, and adaptable.
“Through EmPower+, we’re linking farmer-led innovation directly to the industry’s climate goals,” Trotter said. “Our vision is to give farmers the tools and metrics they need to succeed in an evolving marketplace.”
To learn more about EmPower+, visit edgedairy.com/empower.
