SWA to meet farm leaders over by-product concerns

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has agreed to meet farm leaders over concerns about the use of distillery by-products in energy plants.

The meeting, which is to take place in the middle of May, comes in the wake of a number of farmers hitting out at the use of by-products, such as draff and pot ale syrup, in anaerobic digestion (AD) plants.

The farmers claim energy plants are using up these vital supplies of animal feed, making them more expensive to buy and difficult to source.

Among those concerned is Glenlivet farmer Alistair Nairn, who is environment spokesman for the Scottish Tenant Farmers’ Association (STFA).

He said he planned to attend a meeting with the SWA alongside STFA director and Sutherland farmer Angus McCall and NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick.

Mr Nairn is now calling for affected farmers and crofters to come forward with information ahead of the meeting.

Mr Nairn can be contacted on 01807 590266.