The Frank Arden Memorial Study and Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust’s Nuffield Carbon Farming Conference on April 30 will explore the impact on farming and growing practices on climate change and identify opportunities for growers and farmers to reduce their carbon footprint.

“As research develops and case studies identify the scope for reducing greenhouse gas emissions at farm level, it’s time for the industry to look at what it means for on-farm practice; this conference will provide such an opportunity,” said John Stones, director of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust. “It’s suggested that the small changes, if made by a majority of farmers, will have a far more profound effect on reducing emissions than fewer significant alterations to agricultural practice. Speakers at the conference will demonstrate that small changes can be made without compromising output from farming enterprises.

In the conference programme, which includes a series of workshops, key industry and environmental professionals will address many of the issues and opportunities facing UK farmers today. “First, we need to look at the scale of emissions produced from the farming sector compared with other elements of the UK economy, particularly the rest of the food chain,” said Professor Chris Pollock from Aberystwyth University.

Professor Pollock, who is speaking at the conference, will provide an insight into the levels of emissions produced from farming and go on to discuss feasible land use options for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

Jiggy Lloyd, environmental policy consultant and Nuffield scholar will speak on carbon stewardship, presenting some on-farm case studies and drawing on her experience in corporate responsibility and the business response to climate change, to discuss the scope for action within four farming businesses.

Julian Morgan, director of Bioganix, will report on the opportunities open to farmers who are interested in renewable energy. “The conference will be a first for the industry; providing proven practical advice to farmers and growers that will equip them with the knowledge of their current impact on, and future role in climate changes,” said Stones.

Further information about the event which is being held at Stoneleigh Park, Warks is available at www.thecarbonfootprintofbritishagriculture.com

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