Farmers demand united approach to tackle climate change

The National Farmers Union of England and Wales (NFU) have called for a united approach to tackle climate change.

Guy Smith, Deputy President of NFU, voiced his opinion at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit panel in Parliament, saying that farmers are ready to play their part in minimising climate change. They want to strive towards net zero emissions, reduce agricultural emissions and initiate negative emissions.

The NFU have called for a united approach to ensure successful outcomes in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to minimise the effects of climate change.

Guy Smith said: “If government does set a target of net zero then a joined-up approach is absolutely essential, and will need to involve farmers and landowners in the discussion and work with them to make it happen.”

This news follows the IPCC report that highlighted the stark reality of the effects of climate change and future consequences if governments and industries do not act now.

Mr Smith said: “With the extreme weather we have experienced this year, the release of the IPCC report and the Agriculture Bill going through its second reading in Parliament, it is more important than ever that these discussions on climate change and net zero take place.”

The Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra) have recently announced a £30 million investment which allows farmers to apply for grants of between £3,000 and £12,000.

Dr Andrew Francis, NFU chief economic adviser, said: “The NFU will continue to work closely with Defra on the design of future schemes post-Brexit, to ensure farmers have all the tools available to continue as productive, profitable and progressive farming businesses.”

This follows a report that warned that Europe must halve their meat and dairy production by 2050 to ensure sustainable farming.