Some 71% of Irish consumers responding to a recent survey said they had the greatest responsibility in contributing towards a sustainable future. The production industry and politicians came next, with over 50% of respondents saying they carry this responsibility. Among the representative sample of 2,000 Irish people surveyed this summer, 28% said farmers were responsible.

Nearly all consumers surveyed (94%) believe climate change is happening and many also expressed concerns about biodiversity loss.

There needs to be a more joined-up approach

Despite acknowledging their role in addressing these issues, only four out of 10 felt well informed about sustainability.

"It is clear from the findings of the survey that there needs to be a more joined-up approach between all stakeholders in terms of education, information and actions," said Zoe Kavanagh, chief executive of the National Dairy Council. The NDC was among a group of dairy organisations commissioning the survey in six countries under the EU-funded Sustainable Dairy in Europe project.

Own feed

Some 80% of Irish consumers said the dairy sector plays an important role in creating a sustainable future, but the same number think it could do more by using measures such as producing its own feed and re-using waste. Nearly 60% believe the dairy sector can help feed the world in a sustainable way.

Only 25% were aware that all dairy farmers are now in the SDAS auditing scheme.

The survey was launched on the occasion of the Dairy Day exhibition in Punchestown, Co Kildare, on Tuesday.

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