Searching for Dairy Farm Resilience with the R4D Project: Innovation Needs to Be Sustainable

Abstract

Farms face new challenges due to both climate change and the influence of economic, social, and institutional factors. The study examines the key aspects of the resilience of dairy farms that, if in place, can ensure their sustainable functioning. The purpose of the article is to diagnose and classify the main needs for strengthening the resilience of dairy farms. In implementing the research, an interdisciplinary approach developed within the framework of the Resilience for Dairy (R4D) project was used. The results of the research reveal differences in the classification of key needs to strengthen resilience by stakeholder groups. Farmers reported a need for solutions that increase their income and production flexibility. The other groups of respondents focused on reducing antibiotic use and improving resource efficiency and environmental protection. The analysis of key needs classifications among respondent groups, segmented by age, and the comparison of needs between respondents from Western European and Central and Eastern European countries showed minor differences, indicating a similarity in the perceived importance of needs. The study also identified needs perceived by respondents as essential to increasing dairy farm resilience. These primarily include the following: the work–life balance of farmers, effective communication with the community, and implementation of technical innovations related to dairy farming.