Waitrose has announced the recipients of a new £500k fund aimed at helping British farmers transition to low-carbon farming methods as part of its commitment to reach net zero across its UK farms by 2035 and the entire supply chain by 2050.
The net-zero farm fund will support nine projects that reduce agricultural emissions and build resilience in farming.
James Bailey, Managing Director of Waitrose, commented: “We’re really pleased to be able to support our farmers with projects that will not only help drive down real emissions but help them invest in their futures.
“It’s a challenging time for farmers, yet we saw a real ambition from applicants to the fund to drive forward climate and nature-friendly farming. We’re excited to see the projects come to life and all the amazing benefits they will bring.”
Waitrose invited over 2,000 farmers and suppliers to apply. Nine successful applicants – all of whom directly supply Waitrose – will now implement projects designed to reduce environmental impact and improve sustainability.
The new projects span a range of low-carbon innovations, including water and fertiliser recycling, establishing wilded habitats alongside traditional farming, testing cover cropping in orchards, and converting waste materials like poultry litter into fertiliser.
Additionally, some farms plan to introduce agroforestry and wildflower planting for better water management, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration, while others are exploring renewable energy and emissions tracking systems.
Egg Producer Clair Brettell said: “As Organic egg producers, we’re always talking about improving bird welfare and encouraging biodiversity on the fields where our hens range. The net-zero grant fund by Waitrose is a fabulous initiative to support farmers. We’re excited to be working with Waitrose on our project, to have a positive impact on the environment and lead to more sustainable practices on our farm.”
Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, commented: “Climate change is a significant threat to agriculture and our broader food system, and reducing emissions from the sector is vital to meeting our net-zero commitments. I’m extremely pleased to see new funds, such as Waitrose’s net-zero farm fund, support the adoption of low-carbon farming practices.
“Funds such as these complement the government’s focus on ensuring farming becomes more profitable and businesses are viable for the future – delivering the long-term food security this country needs while protecting nature’s capacity to provide the stable climate, clean water and healthy soils that make farming possible.”
