Listen: Global lessons learned at World Dairy Summit

DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle. Photo / Supplied

The International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit has given Dr Tim Mackle, "more perspective on what's going on globally with dairy."

DairyNZ's chief executive caught up with The Country Early Edition's Rowena Duncum to talk about some of the major themes that came up at the summit, which was held in South Korea last week.

Sustainability was a key issue at the summit, and while New Zealand is focused on water quality, Mackle found it interesting that climate change was more of a concern for other countries.

Listen below:

"Overseas it's climate change, it's greenhouse gases constantly. I struggled over three or four days to hear a presentation, or people comment on water quality."

Mackle is quick to point out that water quality is still New Zealand's "number one big issue," but it was important to remember that global dairy focus is on climate change.

Other interesting points from the summit for Mackle concerned the value of dairy at a global level, including the role the industry plays in developing countries in providing employment and even nutrition for its people.

Mackle says the summit also looked into alternative dairy products, not as a "threat" but an opportunity.

Also in today's interview: Dr Tim Mackle talks about DairyNZ's AGM in Invercargill on Wednesday October 31, where the Board of Directors election for one farmer director will be announced.

Farmers have until 12pm Tuesday, October 30, to get their votes in. Find out more information here.