Modern dairy cows are pushed to produce milk at rates that compromise their health and longevity; extending productive lifespan through better management improves both welfare and sustainability.
High-production dairy systems create a welfare trap - cows pushed to peak production develop health problems that lead to early culling, preventing them from reaching their 20-year potential lifespan. The welfare goal of longevity aligns with sustainability goals since a cow that lives for 8 lactations uses far less resource per litre of milk than one lasting 3. Breeding for health and longevity rather than peak yield is a win for welfare and environment.