A core objective of this alliance is the development of a novel “carbon intensity” protocol, which will be integrated into the existing FARM Environmental Stewardship (ES) Program. This protocol is designed to meticulously define, quantify, and verify how enhanced production efficiencies and the adoption of new, greener practices on dairy farms translate into tangible positive environmental outcomes. This standardization is critical for ensuring credibility and consistency in environmental performance reporting across the dairy sector.

Athian, a key technology partner in this venture, will play a crucial role in connecting food companies actively pursuing Scope 3 emissions reductions with sustainability-minded farmers. By leveraging its platform, Athian will facilitate the monetization of on-farm sustainable practices, identifying and linking farmers with buyers interested in purchasing the resulting “insets.” This mechanism provides a direct financial incentive for dairy producers to invest in and implement carbon-reducing technologies and management strategies.

The NMPF will provide essential guidance on the quantification methodology and data collection processes, leveraging its deep expertise in dairy industry standards. Concurrently, California Dairies, Inc., a major farmer-owned cooperative, will actively support the development and implementation of this new protocol for its extensive network of farmer members. This collaborative approach ensures that the initiative is both scientifically rigorous and practically applicable for dairy farmers of all scales.