MVM struggles
OPINION: Nearly four years after buying a 75% stake in Southland processor Mataura Valley Milk (MVM), A2 Milk is still struggling to take the plant to profitability.
The Farm Sustainability Fund was launched last month and will provide up to $500,000 in the first year to enable grants for farm projects that demonstrate an integrated approach to a sustainable future and enable a positive impact across the community and environment.
The Fund is open to New Zealand farms that supply milk under contract with Mataura Valley Milk Limited or Synlait Milk Limited for use in the manufacture of products for The a2 Milk Company.
David Bortolussi, a2 managing director, says the company is excited to be involved in the venture.
“The fund brings together a2MC’s determination to deliver on our sustainability strategy and Lincoln’s internationally- renowned knowledge in all facets of agriculture and agribusiness – along with the commitment and operating excellence of our milk supply partners,” Bortolussi says.
“We know there are farmer suppliers with innovative and important projects they would be keen to get underway.”
Bortolussi says the fund has the potential to help with many of those projects by providing additional financial support to make them more viable.
Lincoln University research management office director Professor Travis Glare says the university is committed to researching, teaching and showcasing practices and approaches that will advance a more productive and sustainable future for New Zealand.
“It’s through like-minded partnerships such as with The a2 Milk Company, that we can effectively make the most of our collective expertise in helping shape a better, more sustainable world,” Glare says.
Applications for this year’s awards will be open from 23 May and close on 4 July 2022.
Applications will be assessed by The a2 Milk Company and Lincoln University New Zealand Farm Sustainability Fund Investment Committee.
