Farmers are frequently the subject of public criticism around carbon emissions and environmental “damage”. This is amplified by the fact most farms do not have the means to accurately measure carbon output or intake, hence a lack of “real” data. In response to the increasing pressure farmers are facing, AHDB are funding a new carbon-measuring project, with the aim of showcasing the positive impact to back British farming and showcase that British agricultural practices can have a positive impact on the environment.
The pilot project will take accurate measurements of carbon emissions and potential for carbon sequestration from 170 farms across the UK, to determine the net carbon position (the balance between carbon intake and output).
These will include greenhouse gases, water run-off, carbon stocks in the ground and soil analysis. Individual farms will then be provided with accurate data about their own carbon position, rather than relying on national and international averages. Previously, focus has only been on agricultural carbon emissions, without taking into account the vast amount of carbon removal and sequestration also taking place. It is expected that these measurements will positively reflect the true carbon position of the British agricultural sector, as well as providing a baseline from which improvements can be demonstrated.
The data will help demonstrate publically the good that British farms are doing, from improving soil health and biodiversity, to capturing carbon and improving water quality. It will also provide more reliable information about the positive and negative impacts that different farming practices can have. The agricultural sector needs to be demonstrating continued progress towards net zero, not least to encourage the public to choose British produce for its environmental benefits. The knowledge gained from this pilot project will aid farmers and industry leaders in this effort.
AHDB Chief Executive Graham Wilkinson said the project will help “change the story of British agriculture” and “is not just about measuring carbon or soils, it is a transition to informed action”. AHDB is investing £2.5million in this industry-first pilot project, and are currently recruiting farms to participate – more information can be found on the AHDB website.
XL Vets are creating a workgroup to investigate ways that vets can back British farming by assisting farmers in navigating the carbon minefield, focusing on supporting farming businesses in years to come. We will be sure to pass on our findings over the coming 12 months.
