Raising awareness of climate change
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Research partners: NFU, CLA, AIC, AHRF (which includes BPEX), Defra
Sponsors: Defra
Project duration: 2007-2009
BPEX has been involved with the Farming Futures project since it began in January 2007. The project provides information and inspiration to farmers and land managers who want to find out more about the opportunities and risks presented by climate change. It suggests ideas on how to tackle farm responsibilities so farmers can be ready for new government legislation when it comes into force. By taking action to adapt business practices to mitigate climate change now, livestock farmers are more likely to be able to handle the impacts and have a more successful business in the future.
In September 2008 60% of farmers surveyed in England said they were already affected by climate change and more than half expect to be affected in the next ten years. Farmers and land managers are already using the Farming Futures resources to improve the sustainability of their business. The 22 sector specific fact sheets explain the likely impacts of climate change, the opportunities and challenges it presents, as well as ideas on how to take action to protect land and improve business.
The Farming Futures website (www.farmingfutures.org.uk) gives 21 case histories of farmers who are already taking action on their farms to adapt to, or combat, climate change. During 2008 the project ran ten on-farm regional and sectoral workshops to help prepare farm business for climate change. Some of the most popular events focussed on anaerobic digestion and other renewable technologies. Delegates had the opportunity to see the new technologies in action and ask the farmer hosting the event about their experiences of engaging with low carbon farming. All events had expert speakers on hand to put climate change into an agricultural context and focus on relevant sectoral issues such as new pests and diseases or practical matters like planning permission.
For more information or to share your story please visit www.farmingfutures.org.uk or contact Claire Wyatt, project manager on c.wyatt@forumforthefuture.org or 07825 204434.