COVAP has launched a groundbreaking initiative in Spain aimed at lowering the environmental footprint of dairy farming by feeding cows a specially formulated supplement. This marks a unique effort in the country, led by Cooperativa Ganadera del Valle de los Pedroches, to cut methane emissions from the dairy herd by about 30 percent through targeted beef cattle management, using a supplement called Bovaer.
The approach is simple: a small daily dose of Bovaer® added to the dairy cows’ diet is enough to achieve the desired environmental improvement. The product has demonstrated emissions reductions without compromising milk production or animal welfare, helping preserve overall product quality. In practical terms, farmers can directly contribute to a healthier environment while maintaining productive and responsible farming practices.
“I am actively contributing to environmental care and to Dehesa del Valle de los Pedroches thanks to the feed COVAP provides for my cows. Farmers continually protect the environment, and with this product we can also measure the emissions reductions. I believe this keeps us moving forward to improve the environment”, says José Manuel Jurado, owner of the Niño Bonito cattle ranch and a COVAP farmer.
Innovation and environmental stewardship
Beyond this Spain-based innovation, the cooperative pursues a broader environmental strategy that includes population stabilization and rural development. A pioneering energy plan stands out as a notable feature: by 2024 the dairy operation aims to source 100 percent of its energy from renewable sources, achieving complete self-sufficiency and delivering milk produced with 100 percent sustainable energy to consumers.
Another key focus is optimizing industrial processes through improved waste management and recycling. The initiative seeks to minimize waste and promote composting, turning materials such as cardboard, paper, plastic, and organic matter from waste into valuable resources. This effort has earned the cooperative the distinction of being the first in Spain to receive a Zero Waste seal across all its industrial facilities.
In line with its environmental commitments, COVAP also emphasizes packaging that leans on plant-based materials and pursues alternatives to conventional plastic film, moving toward options with a higher recycled content.
Ten years of research and evidence
Bovaer® results from more than a decade of research by DSM and has been the subject of extensive testing documented in over 60 peer-reviewed journals. After a rigorous review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the supplement was deemed highly effective and safe for dairy herds. Independent studies corroborate these findings, showing no changes in milk composition, processing, or nutritional value when Bovaer® is used. A meta-analysis covering more than 15 trials found that feed conversion efficiency remains unaffected and that there are no residues in manure or urine, indicating no disturbance of the cows’ digestion. The product thus supports sustainability without altering the essential quality of the milk. [Source: DSM/EFSA trials and industry assessments]”