Climate change tackled by new industry-led task force
02/01/07

A major initiative to tackle farming’s contribution to climate change is being launched by industry leaders at the Oxford Farming Conference.

Forming a united stance against the serious threat that climate change poses to agricultural production, the NFU, AIC and CLA are joining forces to promote ownership, understanding and change to minimise greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.

The task force will identify adaptations as well as opportunities the industry can take to reduce its carbon footprint as well as continuing to produce a plentiful supply of high quality food.

NFU President Peter Kendall will be unveiling the project to industry leaders during the conference on January 3. He said: “Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing farmers and society as a whole and it is important we work across all sectors and with other industry leaders to promote change from within.

“The farming community is more than ready to demonstrate responsibility and change where needed to tackle the challenges of climate change to ensure we remain economically and environmentally viable.”

Notes:

1. Jointly chaired by the NFU, AIC and CLA, the task force will be a six-month study reviewing the climate change evidence and its impacts on farmers and growers, gathered so far. On completion the study group will agree a joint-industry plan focussing on adaptation and mitigation.

2. The task force will complement the work of Defra’s Rural Climate Change Forum by focusing on industry’s delivery actions and supporting understanding and awareness at a high level.

3. Peter Kendall’s speech will also highlight ongoing work by the industry to promote professional nutrient management both to support our climate change work and other environmental objectives.

4. Working with AIC, CLA, FWAG and LEAF on nutrient management work, the NFU is aiming to:

• Improve farmers’ use and recovery of nutrients from animal manures, slurries and fertilisers in combination.

• Review and recommend effective manure management practices and tools

• Promote nutrient management planning and

• Promote training, certification and CPD in spreading and use of fertilisers and manures

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