In a series of interviews, ET4D experts share their perspectives on developments currently shaping dairy farming. This is the seventh in the series.

In the international ET4D project, Prof. Claus Grøn Sørensen and the team of Aarhus University contribute to the development of information flows, benchmarking methods, and digital solutions that support the practical integration of new technologies in dairy farming. 

We spoke with Prof. Sørensen about the challenges and opportunities of increasing digitalisation in dairy farming. The interview is prepared by Innvite (Denmark).

Q1: What have been the main trends in Dairy farming in recent decades?

Main trends in dairy farming over recent decades include larger but fewer farms, higher milk yields per cow by improved genetics and nutrition, increased automation (robotic milking and precision livestock technologies), improved animal health and welfare practices, increased focus on environmental sustainability, and stronger integration of data-driven management and technology.

Q2: Will digitalisation be a challenge for dairy farming going forward? 

Yes, digitalisation will be a major challenge as well as an opportunity for dairy farming. Farmers must invest in sensors, robots, data systems and cybersecurity, while developing digital skills to manage these new technologies. Challenges include costs, data ownership, interoperability and connectivity, but successful adoption can improve productivity, animal welfare, environmental compliance and operational decision-making.

Q3: How does ET4D address this challenge?

ET4D addresses the digitalisation challenge by providing a practical data management system that combines low-cost sensors, reliable farm connectivity, data analytics and a user-friendly web platform. It helps farmers collect, process and share farm data, improving operational decision-making, transparency, sustainability and communication with consumers and other stakeholders.

About Prof. Claus Grøn Sørensen

Professor Claus Aage Grøn Sørensen is a researcher at Aarhus University specialising in operations management and smart farming systems. Prof. Sørensen is acting President of the world's largest non-profit organisation for agricultural engineering, CIGR, and has received the High Merit Award of CIGR.