Farmers' meeting to discuss gas problems

A FREE Farming Futures workshop in St Neots will examine how Huntingdonshire s arable farmers can minimise their footprints in a low-carbon economy. The session, from 9.30 to 2pm at Midloe Farmlink, St Neots, is entitled Profitable farming in a changing

A FREE Farming Futures workshop in St Neots will examine how Huntingdonshire's arable farmers can minimise their footprints in a low-carbon economy.

The session, from 9.30 to 2pm at Midloe Farmlink, St Neots, is entitled "Profitable farming in a changing climate - the role of soil nitrogen". It promises to explore the debate over nitrous oxide, including rising fertiliser costs, Government targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the rise of the carbon-savvy consumer and the need to produce more food for a growing population.

Leading scientists and industry experts will offer advice on improving nitrogen management and tackling climate change.

Madeleine Lewis of Farming Futures said: "I think we will see nitrous oxide emissions come under increasing focus over the next few years. We saw the methane and livestock debate take hold in the public imagination last year.

"Nitrous oxide accounts for a greater proportion of the greenhouse gases emitted from agriculture than methane, so we need to ensure that this issue is well understood by farmers.

"Retailers and consumers increasingly want to understand the footprints of their food products and are becoming increasingly savvy to environmental and climate change issues. This workshop will show how you can get ahead of the debate as well as the competition."

INFORMATION: The workshop is free but places must be booked in advance through Will Frazer on 07825 204434 or farming@forumforthefuture.org.