Finnish Farmers’ Adoption of Feed Additives for GHG Mitigation in Dairy Farming: Barriers and Perspectives

Abstract

This study offers valuable insights into farmers’ perspectives on the use of feed additives (3-NOP) in reducing methane emissions, and highlights associated obstacles that may prevent the accelerated uptake of GHG mitigation measures. Our data originate from a survey of 239 Finnish dairy farmers. While most farmers acknowledge the importance of climate issues, only a small percentage consider the reduction of the environmental impact of milk production to be the responsibility of the producer. Still, the farmers would prefer to decide for themselves how to reduce emissions, which demonstrates that resistance toward external directives might exist. In addition, there is a discrepancy between economically viable and environmentally responsible management, and this makes farmers more preoccupied with profitability. Furthermore, most farmers consider the feed additives to be safe. However, their efficiency in emission reduction remains unclear to many which contributes to hesitation in adoption. Thus, improved communication and education towards sustainable practices is needed. Strengthening dialogue among researchers, advisors, policymakers and farmers can help clarify the environmental purpose of feed additives and address uncertainties about their effectiveness and safety. Targeted educational efforts should focus on practical, science-based methods for methane reduction and build confidence through transparent information and real-life examples.