West Midlands farmers are urged to head to our 'cutting cost and carbon out of your business' events.
An event has been held at the Worcester Sixways Stadium with further ones planned in Warwickshire and Staffordshire.
NFU Energy will give members tips and advice on navigating spiralling on farm business costs.
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Wednesday 29 June – NFU Conference centre, Stoneleigh
Will Oliver talks soil health and nutrient management and James Mottershead covers renewable energy.
Wednesday 6 July – Staffordshire County Showground
Michael Kavanagh discusses soil health and nutrient management and James Mottershead presents on renewable energy.
NFU members will receive practical guidance from fellow farmers and the union on improving resilience and sustainability in uncertain times. The roadshows will be held from 10am to noon for the main presentations, followed by lunch and then the opportunity for informal afternoon sessions if needed.
Cutting energy costs
With rising energy prices, a renewed focus on energy security and the UK’s commitment to net zero, there has never been a better time for NFU members to improve their energy efficiency and develop renewable energy schemes.
We will look at the different options and talk about how NFU Energy is helping members benefit.
Mitigating fertiliser price inflation
UK farming businesses are facing triple-digit inflation in key inputs that underpin the food production system, in particular fertiliser, which is closely linked to the cost of gas.
We will talk about what NFU members can do to improve their nutrient use efficiency. We will also give an overview of the work we’re doing to influence government policy.
Carbon offsetting
Global demand for carbon offsets is expected to grow considerably in the coming decade and UK agriculture has a potential role to play in meeting it. However, significant commercial, policy and science risks and uncertainties remain.
We will explore the different ways in which agriculture could play a role.
“In light of current events, we will look at the opportunities for farms to reduce energy and input costs and simultaneously lower greenhouse gas emissions by improving energy efficiency, installing renewables and using nutrients more efficiently.
“Members will also hear from NFU advisers about the latest Government policy and best practice in these areas.
“There are interesting and hugely challenging times for agriculture and the UK ahead and for our members this includes rising costs, a changing subsidy regime and ever-increasing focus on net zero and the environment.
“The Russian invasion of Ukraine has also placed a huge focus on both energy and food security and we hope these events will help farmers and growers address some of the current challenges and make the best of business opportunities.
“These events will help farms more resilient, improve food security and energy security and move us closer to net zero.”
Sarah Faulkner, NFU West Midlands policy manager
