Carbon Management
As global awareness of climate change continues to grow, the role of agriculture in mitigating carbon emissions has never been more crucial. At Lower Blakemere Farm, we are proud to embrace this challenge and position our farm as a carbon sink. Our journey began in 2019 when we initiated our carbon audits, marking the start of a rigorous process aimed at understanding and improving our environmental impact.
The Path to Becoming a Carbon Sink
A carbon sink is an ecosystem that absorbs more carbon than it emits, thereby helping to reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Our farm has made significant strides in this area, and we are committed to ongoing improvements. Since 2019, our regular carbon audits have provided us with valuable insights into our practices and the effectiveness of our strategies.
Key Measures Implemented
One of the most significant changes we made was to eliminate ploughing. Traditional ploughing can release stored carbon back into the atmosphere and disrupt soil health. By adopting no-till farming practices, we have enhanced the soil’s ability to sequester carbon, which contributes to both improved soil structure and increased biodiversity.
In addition to eliminating ploughing, we have introduced cover crops into our farming system. Cover crops, such as clover and rye, are planted during the off-season to protect and enrich the soil. They help prevent erosion, improve soil fertility, and enhance water retention. Most importantly, these crops play a vital role in capturing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in the soil, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Our Efforts
While we are pleased with the progress we’ve made, we recognise that there is still much work to be done. We exploring additional initiatives to further enhance our carbon management strategies. One of the key areas is the installation of solar panels which have been installed with the support of The Duchy on our new Grain Store. By harnessing renewable energy, we aim to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and further decrease our carbon footprint.
The Importance of Carbon Audits
Regular carbon audits are integral to our strategy. They not only provide a clear picture of our current carbon footprint but also help us identify areas for improvement. By tracking our progress, we can adjust our practices as needed and ensure that we are on the right path to achieving our sustainability goals.
The audits have also revealed the importance of collaboration with experts and local organizations. By working together, we can share knowledge and resources, leading to more effective solutions for carbon management.
