Research Topic Selection Policy April 26, 2026 – Posted in: R&D
The Ahimsa Dairy Foundation selects research and development topics based on their relevance to the Foundation’s charitable purposes and their potential to deliver a clear public benefit, in line with the Charities Act 2011.
In practice, topics are identified through a combination of operational experience, emerging challenges in ethical dairy farming, and opportunities to contribute to wider knowledge in animal welfare and sustainable agriculture. Priority is given to areas where there is a clear gap in existing practice, or where improved methods could have a meaningful impact beyond the Foundation’s own activities.
When considering potential projects, the trustees apply the following principles:
- Charitable alignment: The work must support the Foundation’s objects, in particular the advancement of cattle welfare and the promotion of humane and organic farming practices.
- Public benefit: The outcomes should be capable of being shared and used more widely, contributing to public understanding or improved practice within the sector.
- Practical application: Preference is given to projects that can be implemented and demonstrated in real-world farming conditions.
- Animal welfare impact: Research should contribute to the reduction of harm and the improvement of living conditions for cattle.
- Environmental sustainability: Consideration is given to the extent to which the work supports low-impact, regenerative, or circular farming systems.
- Consistency with ethical principles: All research must be compatible with the Foundation’s commitment to non-slaughter and respect for the intrinsic value of animals.
- Educational value: Projects should, where possible, support the Foundation’s role in
- informing and educating the public.
Any collaboration with academics or external professionals is undertaken on the basis that the primary purpose of the work is to advance the Foundation’s charitable aims. Any private benefit arising is incidental to the delivery of a wider public benefit.