Scottish farmers can be ‘champions’ in tackling climate change, new report finds
Agriculture experts say the road ahead represents as great a change to Scottish farming as “the change from horses to tractors.”
The Farming for 1.5c inquiry was set up to look at ways the industry can reduce carbon emissions.
The report concluded this can be achieved with better soil management, and by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases produced on farms.
Scotland has committed to reach net zero by 2045, but failed to meet its 2020 target.
The report warns bolder action is needed, and says the agriculture industry must embrace the challenge.
However, it also highlights a need for financial support so that farmers can still have “profitable businesses and good livelihoods.”
In an interview with the BBC, co-chair Nigel Miller, said: “Government is going to have to invest if it wants to see real change.
“It’s not just investing in agriculture, it’s investing in landscape and biodiversity.
“We’ve got to think not just about producing food, we’ve also got to think more about managing carbon.”
National Farmers’ Union Scotland president, Andrew McCornick, said: “We all need to act immediately to tackle the climate emergency.
“NFUS is clear that leadership is an essential part of tackling climate change.
“We expect to see this same leadership urgently delivered through policy & support measures.”
