Hill farms go carbon neutral

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RAISING lambs on Northumberland hill farms could soon be a carbon neutral enterprise, a study indicates.

Graham Dixon, of Alwinton Farm in Upper Coquetdale, initiated the study to examine the carbon footprint of upland lamb production.

The study, carried out by the Oxford-based Food Animal Initiative, was funded by Northumberland National Park Authority’s sustainable development fund and the National Sheep Association.

Researchers examined two upland sheep farms in the national park and found that both are nearly carbon neutral and could achieve complete neutrality by planting a relatively small additional acreage of woodland on each holding.

The study reiterates the role of livestock as major contributors of greenhouse gases and the potential of farm woodlands to offset these emissions. The report also highlights the need for a less simplistic approach to sustainability which recognises the value of the products from hill farming – not only the food value, but landscape, wildlife and social benefits.

Mr Dixon said: “The findings are good news for upland sheep producers. Not only do we produce a high quality, nutritious and healthy product, but retailers and consumers can be confident that the product has a low or negative carbon footprint at the farm gate.”

A park spokeswoman said that sustainable farming played a vital role in shaping the landscape and maintaining wildlife and rural communities.

“Northumberland National Park Authority is keen to assist with the development of a carbon calculator that is appropriate for upland farms and can be easily used by farmers.”

The park’s farming advisor, Mary Gough, said: “Measuring the carbon footprint of livestock farming is complex and existing models all have their limitations.

“Nevertheless, this research is a useful step in helping upland sheep farmers evaluate their individual farming systems in terms of emissions so that they can identify practical measures which can be taken to reduce their contribution to climate change – something which farming, like all industries, will be expected to do.”