The first School of Sustainable Food and Farming has been launched in the UK, aiming to encourage new farming methods that help British agriculture achieve its net zero goal.
The school is the first of its type in the country. Its courses will seek to introduce regenerative methods of farming – for livestock, soil health and biodiversity – so that food can be produced in a more climate-friendly way.
In the UK, agricultural production is currently responsible for 10% of all greenhouse gas emissions.
Based at Harper Adams University in Newport, the school’s courses will be designed using the work on sustainable farming and food production by the University, and in collaboration with Morrisons, fast-food chain McDonald’s, and the National Farmers Union.
The school will bring together all of the latest thinking and learning on farming using sustainable methods. Virtual courses will cover a wide range of topics including carbon sequestration, the potential of green energy production on farms – including anaerobic digestion plants, and understanding the value of carbon. In addition, on-the-farm learning with university tutors will take place to offer real-world practice. The courses will be run by experts in agronomy, veterinary practice and nutrition.
The school’s courses will include undergraduate courses to train new sustainable farmers; short courses and apprenticeships to upskill the current farming workforce; and research posts. The school will also act as a hub for sharing the latest thinking and learning on sustainable farming, and will be involved in policy engagement – to ensure the farming sector gets the support and advice it needs.
Minette Batters, President of the National Farmers Union, said: “A transformation is needed globally to boost sustainable food production and ensure that we can continue to feed a growing population while doing our bit for the planet.
“In Britain, farmers have an ambition to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and the School of Sustainable Food and Farming will help us get there. It will help our farmers – both established and new – take on the role of world leaders in climate-friendly food production, paving the way for farming across the world in a sustainable and beneficial way.”
Sophie Throup, Head of Agriculture at Morrisons, added: “We need to revolutionise our food production and what we’re doing today is unique. It’s the first time the NFU, restaurants, supermarkets and universities have come together to act with one voice for the greater good.
“We have supported the development of this school both for our own farmers – but also for the nation’s farmers. It will play an important part in helping all of Morrisons farmers to get to Net Zero Agri by 2030, but Morrisons also wanted to help create a legacy for all of UK farming.”
Morrisons has pledged to become the first supermarket to be completely supplied by ‘zero emission’ British farms by 2030 – five years ahead of the industry. Morrisons is UK farming’s biggest customer and will work directly with its farmers to create affordable zero-emission produce.
