UK agriculture and horticulture can adapt to make a valuable contribution in mitigating the effects of climate change, according to the NFU.
The UK Climate Projection report (UKCP09) released by DEFRA reinforces the view that climate change in the UK during this century will result in milder, wetter winters, producing an increased risk of flooding, hotter drier summers and coastal erosion.
NFU president Peter Kendall said: “As farmers and growers, our number-one priority is producing fresh, quality food - but we take our environmental responsibilities very seriously. I believe we can play a pivotal role in combating climate change by using our inputs more efficiently and developing business opportunities that help to reduce emissions.
“Farmers deal with the weather every day and many are already adapting to the effects of climate change; using water more efficiently when irrigating crops is just one example. The capacity of the agricultural sector to produce renewable energy means we have an important role to play in reducing the country’s greenhouse gas emissions and can help achieve UK carbon dioxide reduction targets.
“The industry already produces a wide range of bioenergy such as biofuels, wood, straw and energy crops for electricity and heat, as well as anaerobic digestion. Agricultural buildings and land are also well suited for the capture of solar energy, wind power and ground source heat.
“We are seeing a green energy revolution and every farmer and grower should have the opportunity to contribute.”
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