FARMERS AND crofters are being encouraged to get onboard Scottish agriculture's efforts to cut its carbon emissions – and a good place to start would be at tomorrow's Farming For 1.5°C Inquiry Report webinar.

NFU Scotland is hosting the webinar, at 6pm on Tuesday February 23, which will involve the co-chairs of the independent inquiry, CEO of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society Mike Robinson and former NFU Scotland president Nigel Miller. Current union president Martin Kennedy will chair.

The event can be joined by going to: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PsrH7xVaRqOlXUNmeiS0ag

The Inquiry aims to find consensus on the best way forward for Scottish agriculture to play its part in limiting global warming to 1.5°C, and has included input from farmers, scientists, activists and environmental NGOs.

The inquiry’s interim report, published in November 2020, recognised that farming uniquely can improve its own performance by reducing emissions from agricultural activity, and impact positively on wider societal emissions through good soil and land management, by locking up carbon in trees and soil, and by supporting ecosystems.

But the report also stated that without the engagement of the agricultural community, with its ability to absorb emissions and not just cut them, it will be impossible for Scotland to deliver against its targets. This engagement must have political and financial recognition.

The interim report, entitled ‘A Transformational Pathway’ includes 15 key recommendations available to read at: https://www.farming1point5.org/reports

Mr Kennedy said: “The Farming for 1.5 °C independent inquiry, which draws on experience from a wide scientific, environmental, food and farming base, has mapped out a pathway for transformation that 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 immediately to improve agricultural and carbon efficiency, better manage our soils, and develop a new approach to sharing knowledge and technical support.

“Importantly, it also acknowledges the role of Scottish Government in funding this transformation over a sustained period if we are to achieve our ambitious national climate change targets and reverse biodiversity loss.

“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. This Inquiry will be hugely influential in setting that policy direction as its recommendations dovetail with the Scottish Government’s recently created climate change sector groups.

“I urge all to sign up for this webinar for an insight into the transformational journey ahead of our sector.”