Effects of Introducing Robot Milking in Family Dairy Farms: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Work and Life

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of robot milking on family-owned dairy businesses’ operations and socio-economics. Interviews with five Hokkaido dairy farms focused on the reasons for adopting robot milking, changes in daily work, and labor impacts. Findings indicate that aims to introduce robot milking primarily vary on a farm’s lifecycle to expand operational scale and reduce labor demands, offering benefits like fewer working hours and more flexible schedules. However, it may increase workload related to nursing and calving, potentially keeping or raising overall working hours. The ultimate effects vary by business, underscoring the need for continued analysis in different contexts.