Give peas a chance: Why farm’s crops could boost the economy
ALANDMARK farm-based project that could help return atmospheric CO2 to pre-industrial levels has been launched in the Humber hinterlands. As well as having the potential to counter the effects of climate change, the Sustainable Landscapes Humber Project could also reduce flooding and improve soil health.
A collaboration between Birds Eye, Yorkshire Water and supply chain consultancy Future Food Solutions, other brands could join as different commodities are grown in rotation.
Research expertise is being provided by the University of Hull, with support from Teesside University, but at its core are more than 40 farmers from across East
Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire, who grow peas for the food giant.
The project involves them growing specific cover crops, described as pop-up rainforests, in the window between harvesting and sowing their next peas.
It is made up of a diverse range of species chosen for their ability to capture huge amounts of CO2.
Trials show they can increase soil organic matter by up to 40 tonnes per hectare, which can sequester more than four tonnes of atmospheric carbon per year.
Andrew Walker, asset strategy manager for Yorkshire Water, said: “This is one of the most effective ways of combatting the major environmental issues we face today.
“In just seven weeks, cover crops generate enough carbon-sequestering organic material to make a significant dent in atmospheric CO2.
“If grown on a global scale, arable farming could become the first sector of the economy to be net carbon zero.”
The project could also play a role in the reduction of flooding around the estuary.
Paul Rhodes, director of Holmeon-spalding-moor based Future Food Solutions, said growing cover crops also has significant implications for soil health and the wider environment.
He said: “The plants’ root structure holds the topsoil in place reducing erosion, and the increase in organic matter means less farm inputs are required, enabling farmers to grow food more efficiently and profitably.
“Of the inputs that are required, less are leached away into the waterways, making for healthier rivers and watercourses and this has a positive knock-on effect on local flora and fauna.”
Colleague Steve Cann said it was just the start with the initiative set to grow as new crops are drilled.
He said: “Peas can be the catalyst for change; the same farmers will grow wheat, barley and oil seed rape for other supply chain partners, so the potential to upscale the project is huge. As further crops come into play, we expect to see more food brands coming on board and more farmers starting to grow cover crops as the benefits become clear. This hugely exciting project is set to grow and grow.”
The pair formed Future Food Solutions in 2013 to help food brands achieve carbon neutral supply chains.
“Many people see farmers as part of the problem when it comes to the environment,” Paul added, “but growing cover crops makes the arable farming sector one of the most powerful weapons we have in the fight against the climate emergency.”
The pre-project trials have already achieved a dramatic rise in soil organic matter, more than doubling levels in just five years, from 3 per cent to more than 6 per cent.
James Young, agriculture and vegetable sourcing director at Birds Eye owner Nomad Foods, said: “We have a rich history in the Humber catchment area, having worked with local farmers for more than 60 years growing highest quality peas for our consumers.
“Sustainable agriculture is at the heart of our company purpose, and has always been at the core of the partnership with these farmers.
“We’re very excited to be involved in this project and the opportunity to work collaboratively with partners on finding solutions to issues such as climate change and flooding, as well as improving soil health for future crop production.”