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Global Dairy Innovation: The Paris Declaration Sets New Sustainability Standards
January 29th 2025
The 2024 World Dairy Summit in Paris served as a critical milestone for the global sustainable dairy industry, with leaders from 53 delegations signing the Paris Declaration on Sustainability. Held from October 15 to 18, this event showcased the dairy sector’s commitment to sustainable development, addressing climate challenges, resource scarcity, and shifting global demands.
France’s Leadership in Dairy Excellence and Sustainability
Building on the Dairy Declaration of Rotterdam (2016), the Paris Declaration emphasizes the adoption of sustainable dairy supply chain practices across the entire dairy value chain. It aligns with the UN 2030 Agenda, focusing on critical goals such as:
- Climate-smart dairy production to meet international standards
- Quality assurance in nutrition and health
- Sustainable resource management in dairy farming
France, known for its prestigious dairy heritage, continues to lead the way in sustainability. French AOPs (Appellations d’Origine Protégée) are at the forefront of implementing innovative measures that marry tradition with eco-conscious practices, a testament to the country’s ability to adapt to evolving global expectations. With support from INAO (National Institute of Origin and Quality), French producers are setting benchmarks that resonate globally.
Adapting to Global Trends in Dairy
The summit highlighted key opportunities for stakeholders navigating a rapidly evolving market. Discussions revolved around:
- Adapting to consumer preferences for premium dairy products such as butter, cream, and cheese, which reflect quality and authenticity
- Addressing the growing importance of traceability and sustainable sourcing to meet international buyers’ demands
- Tackling challenges like workforce renewal to ensure long-term viability in sustainable dairy production
These trends resonate deeply in international markets, where trust in origin and sustainability credentials is becoming pivotal to purchase decisions. France’s dedication to these principles ensures its producers remain competitive in meeting global expectations.
Global Partnerships and Innovation
Leaders such as IDF President Piercristiano Brazzale and Badi Besbes of FAO emphasized the role of international collaboration in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By combining public and private efforts, the dairy sector is positioned to drive meaningful transformation that benefits not only producers but also partners and stakeholders worldwide.
A Declaration with Global Impact
The Paris Declaration on Sustainability underscores the dairy sector’s dynamism and forward-thinking approach. It promotes:
- Development of sustainable investment frameworks
- Sharing of best practices among international stakeholders
- Strengthened partnerships to ensure resilience and growth in global markets
As a leader in the sector, France sets an example of innovation, quality, and sustainability, offering unparalleled opportunities for international partners seeking reliable and future-focused sourcing.
The Path Forward
With the International Dairy Federation (IDF) reinforcing its advocacy for sustainable transformation, the Paris Declaration ensures the dairy sector remains a vital contributor to global nutrition and livelihoods. France’s efforts highlight how tradition and modernity can align to meet the demands of today’s discerning markets.