Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue TD has welcomed a new project by Guinness – a three-year barley-growing pilot with a focus on regenerative agriculture. The farm-based programme will work closely with farmers, looking at ways to reduce carbon emissions from barley production.
The venture will see 40 farmers participating in the programme this year, with more expected to get on board. Meanwhile, Guinness will assemble technical partners, agronomists and suppliers – these include Boortmalt, Glanbia and Comex McKinnon.
Minister McConalogue added that, “Regenerative agriculture is an exciting area and this pilot shows the importance of sectors working together to reduce emissions. It is welcome that one of Ireland’s most iconic brands is taking a strong leadership position on farming and the environment, as we all work towards reducing carbon emissions and meeting our ambitious but necessary climate change targets.”
“Delivering on the three pillars of sustainability – environmental, social and economic – is a key priority of mine, and is core to the Food Vision 2030 strategy I am implementing.”
Some of the primary aspects that will come under examination are soil health improvement and the potential to improve carbon sequestration; improving biodiversity; reduced fertiliser use; improved water quality, and in the long run, a better-quality livelihood for the farmer.
LSL News.