Project “Sustain Edge SME Accelerator”

Milestone Guidelines Associated with LT2070 - Sustainable Design of Transport and

Logistics Systems

Team Name: Green Ants

SME Name: Chesika Farm

Briefly describe the operations of SME.

Milk Collection: The farm gathers fresh milk from its own buffaloes and from neighboring
villagers within a 10-15 km radius, likely utilizing a structured collection system to ensure
efficiency and timely procurement.

Curd Production: Using buffalo milk, the farm employs traditional methods to produce curd,
emphasizing quality and authenticity in the process, likely adhering to established recipes and
techniques.

Grazing Management: The farm effectively manages a 10-acre grass area to sustainably feed
its herd of cows and buffaloes, focusing on optimizing nutrition and maintaining animal health
through rotational grazing or other sustainable practices.

Retail Operations: Operating a fresh milk retail shop, the farm manages various aspects
including inventory, sales, and customer relations, likely emphasizing direct consumer
interaction to enhance loyalty and satisfaction.

Distribution: Utilizing its own vehicle, the farm ensures timely delivery and product freshness
by distributing its dairy products to markets, likely implementing efficient logistics to reach
customers efficiently and maintain product quality throughout transportation.

Issue Identification
When we talked with them, we identified some issues that impact on sustainability.

We collected data from both the owner and the laborers, who did not possess specific documents
or reports. Hence, we were unable to attach any formal documentation. The information was
gathered through negotiations and on-site visits.

Manure management and potential water pollution: Manure from the animals can be a
valuable fertilizer, but if not managed properly it can contaminate water sources through runoff.
This can harm aquatic ecosystems and pollute drinking water.
Biodiversity loss due to monoculture grazing land: If the grazing land is planted with only
one type of grass (monoculture), it can reduce biodiversity and lead to soil erosion.

Energy Consumption: Energy used in dairy processing and retailing, like refrigeration and
transportation, is substantial. Switching to renewable energy, improving efficiency, and
optimizing transportation can cut carbon emissions and overall energy use.

Animal welfare concerns related to herd management: Large scale farms can raise concerns
about animal welfare if animals are not provided with sufficient space, proper nutrition, and
veterinary care.

These are some of the key sustainability issues to consider for the farm's operations. There are
also ways to address these issues through sustainable farming practices.