SCOTLAND'S NATIONAL Farming Union welcomed the publication of the Farming for 1.5°C inquiry, which urges the industry to take immediate action to tackle the climate emergency.

The 'Transformation Pathway' report recognises that farming has the opportunity to not just improve its own performance by reducing emissions from agricultural activity, but to impact positively on wider societal emissions through good soil and land management, by locking up carbon in trees and soil, and by supporting ecosystems.

NFUS was instrumental in setting up the inquiry alongside Nourish Scotland and has stressed that the onus is now on the Scottish Government to deliver effective policy and support measures to help Scottish agriculture meet net zero ambitions by 2045.

NFUS president Andrew McCornick commented: “We welcome the report which is underpinned by science and supported by a huge range of practical knowledge and expertise.

“The report sets out principles that all sectors of Scottish agriculture need to adopt. NFUS agrees that we need to improve agricultural and carbon efficiency, better manage our soils, and develop a new approach to sharing knowledge and technical support," he continued. “What this report makes most clear is that we all need to act immediately to tackle the climate emergency."

He went on to state the need for political and financial support to help Scottish agriculture meet climate change ambitions: “If Scottish agriculture is to play its part as a solution to climate change, it needs to see a long-term commitment set out by Scottish Government that encompasses all sectors across the industry. The industry must be supported, guided by policy, and equipped with science-led advice if we are to reduce emissions while continuing to produce high quality food and drink.

“NFUS is committed to continue working as an industry leader. Since 2016, we have made clear that leadership and direction are an essential part of the fight against climate change. We now expect to see this same leadership being delivered through effective policy and support measures as a matter of urgency,” he concluded.