Eight sheep and beef producers from across Wales will be selected for a pioneering sustainability project which aims to assess the environmental impact of farms across the UK.
The project, known as the Environment Baselining Project, is a collaborative initiative between red meat levy boards Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), AHDB and QMS. The work is intended to redefine how farmers are recognised for delivering both food and environmental goods, as well as agriculture’s impact and potential for environmental gain.
HCC is looking to enlist eight Welsh beef and sheep farming businesses to participate in the project, based on factors relating to geographical location, topography, soil type and enterprise systems.
The chosen producers will benefit from assessments such as carbon stocks, run-off maps, carbon auditing and soil analysis on their farm. Reports will be produced and shared with the participants.
HCC’s Dr. Eleri Thomas is coordinating the Welsh arm of the project. She said: “Agriculture is recognised as contributing to total emissions. However, unlike other industries, Welsh beef and sheep farms have a unique opportunity to sequester carbon whilst producing a high-quality protein product that is valuable to the human diet.
“This is an exciting project to be involved in if you are passionate about the sustainability of the industry.”
The project participants will provide evidence to demonstrate how Welsh farms can be productive and, at the same time, be a carbon sink and offset Green House Gas (GHG) emissions within their own farming system.
Dr Thomas added: “This powerful on-farm data will assist in futureproofing the sector, to create up to date and relevant data rather than relying on historic national figures.
“The project has the potential to demonstrate the broader environmental implications and benefits of producing red meat within Welsh production systems, whilst also assessing ways for farms to reduce greenhouse gases, build carbon stocks, enhance soil health and support biodiversity.
“On an individual level, it will give producers detailed information and data about their own farming system – as well as support to interpret it. This will enable them to take insight-led action towards a more sustainable, and profitable future.
“We welcome any beef and sheep farmers who want to apply for this opportunity to join HCC and demonstrate why the ‘Welsh Way’ of producing red meat is one of the most sustainable in the world.”
