Colombia: The Ideal Test Case for Sustainable Farming - Connecting Producers with Consumers
Transforming Colombian livestock farming through sustainable practices, technology and innovation to generate a positive impact on the environment and local communities.
Why Colombia?
Geographical diversity
From the Orinoco region to the Andes, so that models can be tested in a variety of ecosystems.
Growing livestock sector
55 million habitants and about 30 million head of cattle, with an increasing focus on sustainability.
Previous experience
Projects such as Sustainable Colombian Livestock Farming have laid the foundations for the adoption of innovative technologies.
Current situation of Colombian livestock farming
Milk
Increased demand for sustainable milk, with cooperatives such as Colanta leading the way in the adoption of environmental practices.
Meat
Growing interest in pasture-raised meat and silvopastoral systems, driven by government programs and NGOs.
Challenges
Limited access to technology and premium markets for sustainable products.
Profile 1: The Guardian of the Field
Juan Pérez
52, Boyacá
Characteristics
Concern for the environment: 30% of the farm has been preserved as native forest.
Animal welfare: Prioritizes rotational grazing to maintain the health of the livestock.
Focus on product quality: Produces high-quality milk to improve the nutrition of its community.
Current Products
Hight-Quality milk: Intended for the production of artisan cheeses and direct sale to local families.
Fresh and matured cheeses: Made with raw milk using traditional techniques.
Raising calves: for sale to other farmers or for their own consumption.
Current Challenges
Difficulty accessing wider markets due to the lack of formal certifications.
High production costs due to family operations and lack of scalability.
Future Objectives
Expand its local market through alliances with cooperatives.
Improve profitability without harming the environment
Knowledge and adoption of new and disruptive technologies for better production and distribution.
Profile 2 : The Sustainable Entrepreneur
Ana Gómez
32, Antioquia
Characteristics
Business focus: Seeks government certifications and aid to scale up its business.
Technological innovation: Implements basic digital monitoring systems to optimise production.
Sustainability as a competitive advantage: Highlights its environmental commitment to access premium markets.
Current Products
Raw milk: Sold to a local cooperative and industrial producer that processes it for yogurt and cheese.
Pasture-raised meat: Sold directly to local butchers.
Free-range eggs: A supplement to their main production.
Current Challenges
Industrial producers set prices, capitalizing on the hard work of small producers.
Difficulty obtaining financing to improve the farm's infrastructure.
Competition with large producers who offer lower prices.
Future Objectives
Generate value through a fairer production and sales process
Escape price wars by engaging directly with your target customers.
Craft a powerful brand identity and strategic marketing plan.
Profile 3: The Business Innovator
Carlos Ramírez
40, Meta
Business vision
Focused on maximizing the profitability of its operation without compromising sustainability.
Optimization of production costs
Improve production and distribution efficiency.
Innovation in the supply chain
It looks for ways to reduce intermediaries and improve traceability.
Current Products
Pasture-raised beef
Sold at local markets and through their own online store.
Raw milk for direct consumption
Offered to families looking for more natural products.
Challenges and Goals
Current Challenges
Difficulty maintaining a constant presence in digital markets.
High marketing costs to highlight their sustainable approach.
Future Objectives
Develop our own e-commerce platform to sell directly to consumers.
Establish alliances with chefs and restaurants that value sustainable quality.
How We Can Help These Ranchers
Our project aims to support Juan, Ana and Carlos by:
Sustainable Genetics
Optimize herd productivity with innovative and sustainable genetics.
Technical training
Improve the efficiency and quality of your products.
Access to premium markets
Connecting them with consumers who value sustainability.
Innovation in the supply chain
Reducing costs and improving traceability.
Benefits of the Project for Ranchers
Improved profitability
Greater value and access to premium markets
Accessible Technology
Digital tools for efficiency and traceability
Training and Technical Support
Assistance in implementing sustainable practices
Join the Livestock Revolution
Collaboration
Joining forces between farmers, investors and experts
Innovation
Implementing cutting-edge technologies and practices
Impact
Transforming the Colombian livestock industry with a sustainable approach