Taking action to achieve Net Zero in the agriculture sector

Agriculture - Farmers need to be prepared to take action now in order to achieve Net Zero in the agriculture sector by 2050, according to UCL researchers. The report, UK Agriculture: Pathways to Net Zero, commissioned by HSBC, examines the importance of reducing net agriculture emissions of greenhouse gases and how farmers can achieve this through changes to farm management. The research shows that a long-term focus on sustainability is needed and farmers must have a better understanding of their farm's performance including greenhouse gas emissions (methane, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide) and carbon capture accounting. Lead author Dr Carole Dalin (UCL Bartlett School of Environment, Energy & Resources) said: "We are at a crucial turning-point for agri-food systems worldwide, and the UK has the opportunity to lead in showing how the sector can transform to benefit farmers, consumers and life-supporting ecosystems. "Appropriately-scaled knowledge and financial support will be key to enabling farmers to successfully transition their activities towards Net Zero, in ways that make their lands and income more resilient and sustainable." The agricultural sector is both vulnerable to climate change and a strong lever for mitigation and adaptation. Government, regulators and consumers are increasing demands to implement sustainable practices to reduce emissions. This presents a unique challenge to farmers who need to maintain productivity and profitability from their core activity as food producers whilst also navigating changes in support levels and regulations post Brexit.