Triple Performance - User contributions [en]

AGROECOLOGY IN BENIN - part 1

2026-07-06T16:35:22Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

{{Vidéo
|Titre=AGROECOLOGY IN BENIN - part 1
| Producteur=National Center for Agroecology
| Vignette=Thumbnail_youtube_Smxt1UK55UY.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne=2026-06-25
| Durée=57 minutes
| Production=
| Vidéo=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Smxt1UK55UY
| Programme=Urbane
| Intervenants 0=Ulysse Ayihaou
| Intervenants 1=Romual Gbegan
| Mots-clés=
| Résumé=This webinar, dedicated to agroecology in Benin within the framework of the Urban project, highlights the progress of the transition towards sustainable agricultural practices. Ulysse Ayihaou, a PhD student in microbiology, presents successful trials using cover crops (sorghum/cowpea) and symbiotic solutions to fertilize soils without resorting to chemical fertilizers, thus improving tomato yields while preserving human health.

Romuald Gbegan, a farmer in Akassato, shares his experience transitioning to agroecology. He emphasizes the importance of diversifying crops and adopting systemic methods, such as the association of purple corn-legumes, to ensure the economic viability of his farm while regenerating his lands. This sharing of experience stresses the need to offer profitable solutions to producers. This approach, combining scientific rigor and field realities, proves to be a powerful lever to widely disseminate sustainable agroecological practices that protect public health.
}}

00:00 - Introduction and project context in Benin

05:30 - Presentation of stakeholders and study areas

12:15 - Methodology of agroecological trials

22:40 - Results of the first field experiments

35:10 - Soil analysis and local biodiversity

48:00 - Testimonials and exchanges with producers

54:25 - Conclusion and perspectives for agroecology

This video was produced by the National Center for Agroecology (CNA) https://centre-national-agroecologie.fr/ as part of the URBANE project https://urbane-project.eu/, funded by the European Union.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Research Executive Agency (REA)

This video was made as part of the URBANE project co-funded by the European Union. Website: https://urbane-project.eu/

The opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA)

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
|transcription=Hello everyone. Uh Alexandre Cain from Hello everyone. Uh Alexandre Cain from Hello everyone. Uh Alexandre Cain from Verte de Terre Production. Uh Verte de Terre Production. Uh Verte de Terre Production. Uh today uh in this webinar, we are today uh in this webinar, we are today uh in this webinar, we are here to talk about uh agroecology and here to talk about uh agroecology and here to talk about agroecology and peri-urban agriculture uh in the peri-urban agriculture uh in the peri-urban agriculture uh in the framework of the Urban project and the STF project framework of the Urban project and the STF project framework of the Urban project and the STF project uh in West Africa. uh in West Africa. uh in West Africa. [music] Uh the Urban project uh before I Uh the Urban project uh before I Uh the Urban project uh before I introduce the different introduce the different introduce the different speakers and the agenda of the speakers and the agenda of the speakers and the agenda of the webinar, the Urban project is a webinar, the Urban project is a webinar, the Urban project is a project aimed at supporting the project aimed at supporting the project aimed at supporting the agroecological transformation agroecological transformation agroecological transformation of peri-urban agriculture in six West of peri-urban agriculture in six West of peri-urban agriculture in six West African and North African countries. uh Ghana, uh Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Morocco and finally Benin uh which is Morocco and finally Benin uh which is Morocco and finally Benin uh which is the subject of today's webinar. Uh this subject of today's webinar. Uh this subject of today's webinar. Uh this project aims to study the links project aims to study the links project aims to study the links between agricultural practices, the health between agricultural practices, the health between agricultural practices, the health of animals, humans and ecosystems and to promote of animals, humans and ecosystems and to promote of animals, humans and ecosystems and to promote agroecological practices and the development agroecological practices and the development agroecological practices and the development of new technologies and decision support tools. of new technologies and decision support tools. of new technologies and decision support tools. Uh the different speakers Uh the different speakers Uh the different speakers today will be Uliss d'Apod, who today will be Uliss d'Apod, who today will be Uliss d'Apod, who is a PhD student in microbiology at is a PhD student in microbiology at is a PhD student in microbiology at the University of Abomey-Calavi. the University of Abomey-Calavi. the University of Abomey-Calavi. Uh Romuel Bégan who is a farmer in Uh Romuel Bégan who is a farmer in Uh Romuel Bégan who is a farmer in Akasato, Akasato, Akasato, Antoine de 3 who is project manager at SIRAD Antoine de 3 who is project manager at SIRAD Antoine de 3 who is project manager at SIRAD and head of the Safe Veg project in Benin. and head of the Safe Veg project in Benin. and head of the Safe Veg project in Benin. and finally Edgar Dénon and finally Edgar Dénon and finally Edgar Dénon who is a certifier and who is a certifier and who is a certifier and head of SPG in Benin. head of SPG in Benin. head of SPG in Benin. Uh without further ado, let's Uh without further ado, let's Uh without further ado, let's start with the different presentations of this start with the different presentations of this start with the different presentations of this webinar. Uh Uliss, I give you the webinar. Uh Uliss, I give you the webinar. Uh Uliss, I give you the floor for uh for the first floor for uh for the first floor for uh for the first presentation. OK. Uh hello everyone. OK. Uh hello everyone. OK. Uh hello everyone. Uh thank you for this opportunity that allows us Uh thank you for this opportunity that allows us Uh thank you for this opportunity that allows us to share our results and to make known what we do to share our results and to make known what we do to share our results and to make known what we do here. So, let me introduce myself, I am here. So, let me introduce myself, I am here. So, let me introduce myself, I am Ulis Tapodé. I am a doctor in Ulis Tapodé. I am a doctor in Ulis Tapodé. I am a doctor in biochemistry and molecular biology at biochemistry and molecular biology at biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of Calavi and I work in a the University of Calavi and I work in a the University of Calavi and I work in a microbiology laboratory. microbiology laboratory. microbiology laboratory. And so, we are mainly And so, we are mainly And so, we are mainly participants in the Urban project where we participants in the Urban project where we participants in the Urban project where we have conducted trials. have conducted trials. have conducted trials. As Alexandre said, these are As Alexandre said, these are As Alexandre said, these are trials aimed at finding alternatives trials aimed at finding alternatives trials aimed at finding alternatives to agricultural practices where producers use a lot to agricultural practices where producers use a lot to agricultural practices where producers use a lot more chemical fertilizers perhaps more chemical fertilizers perhaps more chemical fertilizers perhaps to improve yield but which in the long term have repercussions to improve yield but which in the long term have repercussions to improve yield but which in the long term have repercussions on human health and also on soil health and this poses a problem on human health and also on soil health and this poses a problem on human health and also on soil health and this poses a productivity and quality problem of what we consume. productivity and quality problem of what we consume. productivity and quality problem of what we consume. So, to address these practices, we have So, to address these practices, we have So, to address these practices, we have therefore, with the help of the Urban project, found therefore, with the help of the Urban project, found therefore, with the help of the Urban project, found alternatives based notably on alternatives based notably on alternatives based notably on symbiotics but also on agroecological trials symbiotics but also on agroecological trials symbiotics but also on agroecological trials to offer producers other to offer producers other to offer producers other solutions to gradually reduce solutions to gradually reduce solutions to gradually reduce the use of these chemical fertilizers while preserving the use of these chemical fertilizers while preserving the use of these chemical fertilizers while preserving human health and also preserving human health and also preserving human health and also preserving soil health. soil health. soil health. So without further delay, I will So without further delay, I will So without further delay, I will make a brief presentation. First make a brief presentation. First make a brief presentation. First I will talk about the agroecological trials we conducted in Benin and the results we obtained. Then, I will talk about the symbiotic trials. Then, I will talk about the symbiotic trials. Then, I will talk about the symbiotic trials. So, when we talk about agroecological trials, these are trials that we conduct while avoiding the use of chemical products or chemical fertilizers as commonly done by producers. So, here we focused on the use of cover crops. These are plants that actually allow us to fix nitrogen, have good biomass in the soil to make the soil more fertile for the next crops. We tried several modalities, notably three modalities combining legumes and cereals. As legumes, we used maize, sorghum, and as cereals, we had sorghum and as legumes, we used maize, sorghum, and as cereals, we had sorghum and as legumes, we used maize, sorghum, and as cereals, we had rather as legumes we used maize and peanut, and sorghum plus peanut. So, these are the three modalities we tried to implement in our plantations, and we added a control plot without cover crops to compare at the end the yield we would have compared to the plots where we planted cover crops. When these cover crops were established, we let them grow and mature, even fruitify, to be able to harvest the fruits produced. About 3 months after establishing these cover crops, we proceeded to cut these cover crops on different plots. During these cuts, measurements were taken, notably plant height, and we also performed tests to estimate biomass and nitrogen fixation. The cut plants were arranged to allow the subsequent transplanting of tomato plants. I recall here that the agroecological trial was mainly based on tomato cultivation. The goal was to see if these trials would improve the yield of these crops compared to previous cultural practices. After cutting and analyzing, we let the cover crops completely dry and decompose on the plot for about a month, allowing the biomass to integrate into the soil. These modalities included maize plus peanut, maize plus peanut, and sorghum plus peanut. About one month after cutting and decomposition of these cover crops, we proceeded to transplanting. Before transplanting, the nursery was prepared well in advance to be ready at transplanting time. We transplanted the young tomato plants into the plots prepared previously during the cover crop cutting. These plots allowed us to carry out the transplanting of our tomato plants. After transplanting, maintenance is necessary, including regular daily watering depending on the season and weeding to remove weeds growing between plots and between tomato plants. This maintenance continues regularly until the tomato plants begin to fruit. After fruiting, harvesting begins progressively as fruits ripen. We sort out fruits attacked by birds because on the plot we experienced bird attacks. After sorting out attacked fruits, we weigh the fruits by modality to compare yields. At the end of these agroecological trials, we noticed that in terms of cover crop modality, the sorghum-peanut modality had the best yield compared to other modalities. Estimating per hectare, we have nearly 30 tons per hectare compared to the control. We can thus talk about the capacity of this trial to increase tomato productivity. The trial was conducted on two different sites, one in Cassato and one in Sem. Although the soil types differ between Cassato and Sem, we obtained practically the same result, demonstrating the effectiveness of the sorghum and peanut combination to enrich the soil. Regarding biomass test values, I believe Alexandre can justify this. We obtained the best values for this modality in terms of nitrogen fixation rate and biomass produced. So, this is a general overview of these agroecological trials. Romiat will provide more details later as he is a key actor in these trials and will share his views and lessons learned. The other aspect I will address is the symbiotic trials. Here, it is not about cover crops but about microorganisms. How can we fertilize our soil with existing microorganisms rather than using chemical fertilizers that degrade the soil? Before each trial, we performed physico-chemical soil analyses to evaluate what was added to the soil throughout the trial. Mainly before the symbiotic trials, we conducted tests to see if the objective was achieved. Using symbiotics is one thing, but ensuring these microorganisms persist in the soil so that the soil can be reused without external inputs is another. Symbiotic trials are mainly based on microorganisms. We produced these products and administered them to young tomato plants from nursery stage to transplanting and until fruiting. The tomato variety used is Cobra 26, a variety resistant to wilting and widely cultivated by local producers. It is a semi-early variety producing round red fruits. Methodologically, germination and nursery lasted about 3 to 4 weeks. Before this, seeds were suspended in symbiotic solutions, which are combinations of prebiotics and probiotics. We had about five trials: the first with prebiotic alone, the second with probiotic alone, the third with the combination (symbiotic), the fourth a positive control (a commercial symbiotic product already on the market), and the fifth a negative control using conventional cultural practices. After germination, before transplanting, roots were dipped in symbiotic solutions. Transplanting was done on different plots, and symbiotics were regularly administered until fruiting. During the plant development cycle, daily data were collected on plant height, width, leaf length and width, leaf area, stem diameter, and fruit growth parameters to differentiate treatments and meet consumer preferences. The main concern is yield: do these trials improve tomato yield compared to conventional practices? Methodologically, we had five treatments: probiotic alone (mainly Bacillus subtilis), prebiotic alone (no microorganisms), symbiotic (combination of probiotic and prebiotic), a positive control (commercial symbiotic product TNC Mic Plus), and a negative control (no symbiotic, conventional practices). Trials were conducted both in real and controlled environments with similar results. We used randomized plots with three blocks, each block receiving the five treatments randomly. Parameters measured included plant growth (height, diameter, leaf length and width, leaf area), fruit development and yield (number and weight of fruits, fruit height and diameter), and nutritional values by treatment. Results showed that the symbiotic treatment had the highest values for all growth parameters, indicating its effectiveness in improving tomato growth. Productivity was estimated on 18 m² plots, showing increased yield with symbiotic trials. Extrapolated to hectare scale, yields could reach about 50 tons per hectare, demonstrating the potential of symbiotic formulations to optimize tomato productivity. This is a summary of the symbiotic trials. Romiat will provide more precise details later, as after these results, we organized a workshop inviting other farmers to share data and impressions, who showed great interest. So, this is a somewhat technical or summarized overview of what we have done on the Urban project in Benin and the results achieved. Additionally, after the trials, as mentioned earlier, we reanalyzed soil parameters to see if the soil was enriched by these microorganisms, aiming for soil fertility to be maintained for future crops, not just tomatoes. Thank you for your attention and thanks to the whole team who organized this webinar as it is very important and informative. Thank you. I had a question about Ulis's presentation regarding the symbiotics used, i.e., prebiotics and probiotics. I wanted to know the origin of these microorganisms, where they come from, how they are produced, whether they can be locally adapted by producers or entrepreneurs in the Beninese context, or if we depend on foreign products prepared elsewhere? Indeed, they originate locally but were mainly identified in Belgium. We sent samples from soils, chicken manure, animal droppings, and mustard—anything capable of producing microorganisms of interest—to Belgium, where they were identified and characterized. We selected a strain and tested it. The goal is to have a finished product, perhaps in powder form, that producers can dilute in water and apply directly themselves. This is still experimental; we manipulate them ourselves for now. Eventually, the goal is to have a finished product like the positive control Micro Corus, which is already on the market and made from local strains. So, no need to look far; we can produce these microorganisms locally. Thank you for the explanations. You are absolutely right, Alexandre. These are solutions that can be seen empirically; we observe the effects without knowing the specific microorganisms present. There is more microbiological biodiversity, which balances the system, but we don't know exactly which microorganisms are present. Production variability can be high from one batch to another. Your approach is more precise regarding concentrations and specific microorganisms. I think both approaches complement each other and should be offered to producers: those who have time to prepare and those who prefer ready-made products. It would be great if production could be localized in Benin to avoid dependence on foreign groups. What do you think should be done to integrate cover crops into your system profitably, both agronomically and economically, considering labor time? What alternatives or mixes of methods or technologies would you propose to better adapt to your way of working? If I understand your question, it's about whether we can combine the two types of trials: agroecological and symbiotic. Exactly. As we say here, too many ingredients in the sauce don't spoil the sauce. Since we have measured the capacity and results of these two trials, combining them would likely yield even better results. Agroecology fixes nitrogen and provides microorganisms that help control and sustain the system sustainably. They multiply quickly, allowing producers to benefit and increase productivity. However, the challenge is how producers will manage cover crops. Romiat already adopts them, but I wonder how they will benefit at a large scale because the goal is to profit from cover crops without incurring unnecessary expenses. They should gain across the entire field. As you said, last time we waited a month but realized we could wait longer for complete decomposition. But can the project wait that long? I don't know how to reconcile this. Ideally, we could adjust both trials together, which would be fantastic. Hm. To build on that, that's why I asked the question: because we can't wait a month before replanting tomatoes. We need methods to chain the production cycle so it remains economically viable, which is crucial. We can't work at a loss. We can't propose innovations that make producers lose money; no one will adopt them. For the sorghum case, I wondered if symbiotics could accelerate sorghum degradation and nutrient bioavailability for the next crop. That's a question. I don't have a clear answer on integrating cover crops and scaling up their use. We need cost data over the entire production cycle (cover crops plus main crop, e.g., tomato, pepper) to activate these levers. Without this information, we can't convince producers to integrate cover crops in rotation. Lastly, fertilization was very complicated experimentally. We proposed dividing fertilization between cover crops and tomatoes, with a control plot fertilized only on tomatoes. This would allow more biomass production and faster degradation, possibly reducing fertilization for the next tomato crop. But it's hard to convince producers to fertilize a plant they won't directly benefit from economically. I'm thinking about how to transfer this innovation with arguments to promote it. These complex systemic agroecological methods take longer to be adopted because of their complexity. But once the right mix of plants and fertilization is found and economic data are available (work CIRAD is doing worldwide), diffusion happens rapidly. This has been shown with rice in Vietnam and other crops. I think the next phase is to associate these approaches with pioneering producers like Romual who believe in these methods and are willing to invest time and money in research. I think this is an interesting path for massive diffusion. Romualde, how are you? To start, could you please introduce yourself and present what you do? I will show photos of your farm as we go, and then we would appreciate your perception of agroecology: why you decided to adopt it, reduce or eliminate synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, and what you think you can recover from these experiments on your farm to integrate into your production system? Thank you very much, Alexandre. I am Ban Lissanou, producer and manager of Agrisveur farm. The farm is located in Cassato, in the SAOPA area. At Agrisveur farm, we produce market gardening and food crops. Before the Urban project, we used chemical fertilizers NPK and UR. But for about 3 years, since the Urban project started here, we stopped using NPK and UR. The crops we produce, especially market gardening crops like carrots and especially tomatoes, are the main focus since the farm was created mainly for tomato production, along with lettuce and cucumber. These are the main crops we produce at Agrisveur farm. Regarding field crops, we produce cassava, maize, and peanuts. We produce mainly cassava and maize because there is a type of maize called purple maize, rich in anthocyanins, molecules that help regulate blood glucose levels, thus helping diabetics. We produce it to support those suffering from this disease. We are fortunate to be part of this project because previously, we produced maize in a different field than where we produced tomatoes. With the agroecological trials implemented by the Urban project, we realized that instead of producing maize elsewhere and tomatoes elsewhere at the same time, which was not advantageous, it is better to produce purple maize accompanied by peanuts or cowpeas, and three months later, after harvest, produce tomatoes. This way, we gain in maize production and also in tomato production. The maize leaves and legumes leave biomass and nitrogen on the field that our tomatoes use to give good yields. This is roughly what we practice on our farms. We gain more, lose nothing, and protect our soil. We protect our soil especially because we do not use chemical fertilizers that impoverish the soil. The use of NPK is limited because they are salts. When these salts accumulate, plants can no longer absorb nutrients because the soil becomes saline, reducing yield. Moreover, chemical fertilizers have negative health effects. When used, substances penetrate crops and make consumers sick. We thought that the Urban project idea, which we started applying, if applied for many years on our farm, will allow our land to be used and reused eternally. But if we continue using chemical fertilizers, eventually we will have to abandon our farm and move elsewhere. We produce to feed the population and protect consumer health because if consumers get sick, they will no longer consume our products as they should. So, we must protect health by avoiding chemical fertilizers. When we did the combinations as Ulis presented, sorghum gave the highest biomass. But we said if we want to use sorghum, how will we handle it here? It is complicated because we do not intend to sell sorghum on our farm but maize. That is why we adopted maize and legumes, as you will see later on the screen. Mr. Alexandre, if you want to come to the chlorotariés... Hello? OK. You wanted us to revisit which part of the trial? Sorry. The chlorotariés. Can you go back five slides? Yes, this one. At the beginning, when we started on the farm where we produced carrots, we noticed many galls (thank you, Antoine, for the term). I informed the person present before Alexandre, and she said we need to use chlorotariés on the field to correct this. Since then, I have noticed no more galls when producing carrots on the same field. Now, you will see we are harvesting tomatoes. What he is showing is the tomato harvest. If you look closely where we are, you will see if you can, Mr. Alexandre, zoom in a bit. We will put a larger image of the gall in the montage. Antoine will also present results on the use of Crotaler against nematode galls and Ralstonia causing wilting. So, you can continue on this part of the trial. Sorry, I cannot enlarge the presentation live now. OK, thank you very much. So, on Agrisveur farm, all we expect is to communicate with Mr. Edgar over time for certification of our products. That's all I can say for now about Agrisveur farm. Thank you, Romad. I will ask you a few questions to go deeper. First, about the description of this transition and the choices you made to change the system, trying to reduce or eliminate synthetic product use, whether fertilization or pesticides, and accepting to try new methods. I recall from our conversations that some producers around you already applied some crop association methods, like mixing maize with cowpea. Mainly that. I want to know if, based on the trials over the past three years on your farm, there is a trial, method, or plant you think you can integrate into your production system? Is there an experience or plant you want to reintegrate or adapt to your way of working because you think it will give better results? Yes. As I said, the association of purple maize and legumes to enrich the soil. Regarding the 2025 trials, I want to clarify something between the first and second year: you decided to change the varieties of maize and sorghum used to produce biomass. You chose varieties you use. This is important to share because we had proposed some varieties and seeds, and you completely adapted them. We saw in the 2025 trial that the cover crops grew very tall, about 4 m. The maize was also very tall and productive. This adaptation is important. You can tell us if you plan to make associations of purple maize with cowpea to support people with diabetes. Yes. Between legumes like cowpea or peanut, which do you prefer to produce? Since we saw the best agronomic results with the sorghum-cowpea association in terms of biomass production and tomato yields. But sorghum is not harvested as such in the experiment. Cowpea was heavily impacted by birds both years, making seed harvesting difficult. How do you see integrating cover crops in your system if you water, work the soil, and produce something whose fruits you do not directly harvest? What is your perception? As I said earlier, sorghum produced a large amount of biomass, which is good. But here in the south, I cannot wait for sorghum grain production because the variety used is forage sorghum, which produces many leaves but not many grains. The fruiting period is long, over 4-5 months. The leaves are more important and good for livestock. I can sell the leaves to livestock farmers here in the south, but it's not profitable for me. That's why I preferred purple maize plus cowpea. Because producing and earning is important. If it's not useful for me, I won't do it. I want to earn. If I do it once for tomatoes and that's it, it's not worth it. On the other hand, I earn from purple maize, cowpea, and tomatoes. A producer advised me that because birds disturbed cowpea and others, when it starts fruiting, I can hire someone for one or two months to scare birds by playing music. This way, I protect the crop during the critical period. Often, I am the only producer in the area, so birds come to my field because they find no food elsewhere. When we worked with Ulis, a producer told me this. If tomatoes take more than a month to fruit, we finish harvesting most of the crop. Then I hire someone for a month, costing about 40,000 to 50,000 CFA, which is worth it compared to the harvest. Thank you for sharing this part of production in the off-season, as it is something we also considered. The first year we started trials in the off-season, which caused extra irrigation costs. You were the only producer with tomatoes or cover crops in your plots, so birds knew where to feed. This is very interesting and will help us transfer knowledge in the third presentation and Edgar's presentation at the end. We have an agronomic part to try to leverage agronomic factors and a systemic part. Increasing yields is good, but if everyone sells tomatoes at the same time, prices drop, and income decreases. Also, producing in the off-season without considering the absence of other production and the strong bird impact leads to high irrigation costs and low harvest. In 2024, you calculated that about 40% of tomatoes were lost due to birds and diseases. That's huge. So adapting agroecological methods to the local production system is what we aimed for. After two years of trials, you have some leads on how to use these methods to maximize and diversify production. We were aware that producing tomatoes when everyone else does and relying solely on tomato income makes you dependent on production. We saw in the first year that locust attacks and wilting affected production heavily. Diversifying production was a strategy to reduce risk. To close your presentation, is there something you are proud of and want to share with other farmers in the area to inspire them? Yes. What I shared with other farmers is that we eat to live, not to die. To do this, we must consume healthy food. To consume healthy food, we need savior producers, not sorcerers. When a producer wants to kill, he kills millions of people. A doctor may kill one person in a career, but a producer can kill thousands by using chemical fertilizers or toxic products he thinks will save his crop but enter the consumer's food. So, I humbly ask producers to reduce chemical use and adopt agroecological techniques: crop associations, cover crops. Here, using cover crops is a bit complicated because finding them is difficult. We must produce crops that bring good yields and marketable products, which also serve for other crops, leading to good yields. This is my advice to producers: adopt agroecological crops together. We will save the world and ourselves. Thank you very much. Thank you, Rol, for this inspiring conclusion. I want to thank the Urban project, which invested so that we producers have this technique to save the world a little bit at another level.}}

{{Vidéo
|Titre=AGROECOLOGY IN BENIN - part 1
| Producteur=National Center for Agroecology
| Vignette=Thumbnail_youtube_Smxt1UK55UY.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne=2026-06-25
| Durée=57 minutes
| Production=
| Vidéo=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Smxt1UK55UY
| Programme=Urbane
| Intervenants 0=Ulysse Ayihaou
| Intervenants 1=Romual Gbegan
| Mots-clés=
| Résumé=This webinar, dedicated to agroecology in Benin within the framework of the Urban project, highlights the progress of the transition towards sustainable agricultural practices. Ulysse Ayihaou, a PhD student in microbiology, presents successful trials using cover crops (sorghum/cowpea) and symbiotic solutions to fertilize soils without chemical fertilizers, thus improving tomato yields while preserving human health.

Romuald Gbegan, a farmer in Akassato, shares his experience transitioning to agroecology. He emphasizes the importance of diversifying crops and adopting systemic methods, such as the association of purple corn-legumes, to ensure the economic viability of his farm while regenerating his lands. This sharing of experience stresses the need to offer profitable solutions to producers. This approach, combining scientific rigor and field realities, proves to be a powerful lever to widely disseminate sustainable agroecological practices that protect public health.
}}

00:00 - Introduction and project context in Benin

05:30 - Presentation of stakeholders and study areas

12:15 - Methodology of agroecological trials

22:40 - Results of initial field experiments

35:10 - Soil analysis and local biodiversity

48:00 - Testimonials and exchanges with producers

54:25 - Conclusion and perspectives for agroecology

This video was produced by the National Center for Agroecology (CNA) https://centre-national-agroecologie.fr/ as part of the URBANE project https://urbane-project.eu/, funded by the European Union.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Research Executive Agency (REA)

This video was made as part of the URBANE project co-funded by the European Union. Website: https://urbane-project.eu/

The opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA)

{{Pages liées}}

{{Résumé long
|Résumé== Agroecology in Benin - part 1 =

This webinar, organized within the framework of the Urban and SafeVeg projects, is dedicated to the agroecological transition of peri-urban agriculture in West Africa. The Urban project is deployed in six countries (Ghana, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Morocco, and Benin) with the objective of studying the links between agricultural practices, the health of ecosystems, animals, and humans, while promoting sustainable technologies.

== Agroecological trials: fertilization and symbiosis ==

Ulysse Ayihaou, a microbiology PhD student at the University of Abomey-Calavi, details the two research components conducted in Benin:

=== Cover crop trials ===

The objective is to replace chemical fertilizers with cover crops (legumes and cereals) to enrich the soil with nitrogen and biomass. Three modalities were tested, compared to a control plot:
* Maize + cowpea
* Maize + peanut
* Sorghum + cowpea

The results show that the '''sorghum + cowpea''' combination offers the best biomass and nitrogen yield, reaching about 30 tons per hectare for the subsequent tomato crop, thus validating the effectiveness of these practices on different soil types.

=== Symbiotic trials ===

These trials use microorganisms (prebiotics and probiotics, notably ''Bacillus subtilis'') to naturally fertilize the soils. Treatments include:
* Prebiotic alone.
* Probiotic alone.
* Symbiotic (combination of both).
* A positive control (commercial product).
* A negative control (conventional practices).

Results indicate that the '''symbiotic''' treatment promotes faster plant growth and a significant increase in productivity, with a theoretical projection reaching 50 tons per hectare.

== Testimony of a producer: Romuald Gbegan ==

Romuald Gbegan, producer and manager of Agrisaveur farm in Akassato, shares his experience transitioning to agroecology over the past three years.

* '''Paradigm shift:''' After abandoning chemical fertilizers (NPK, urea) that deplete the soil and pose health risks, he integrated agroecological methods. He emphasizes the importance of using local varieties, such as '''purple maize''' (rich in anthocyanins), combined with legumes to nourish the soil.
* '''Managing constraints:''' Bird pressure on cowpea crops remains a major challenge in the off-season. However, Romuald explains that this difficulty can be managed by occasional recruitment of surveillance personnel, a cost largely offset by increased yields and the quality of the final product.
* '''Ethical vision:''' For Romuald, agroecology is a moral responsibility: "We eat to live and not to die." He urges other producers to abandon chemical products to preserve consumer health and the sustainable fertility of the land.

== Perspectives and conclusion ==

The participants agree that the success of agroecology relies on '''crop diversification''' and a systemic approach. Research, notably with the support of CIRAD, now focuses on:
# Transferring laboratory techniques to local production of symbiotic solutions to avoid dependence on imported inputs.
# Optimizing the cropping calendar to ensure consistent economic profitability.
# Creating solid economic evidence (costs/products) to convince more farmers to join this agroecological transition dynamic.

}}
[[fr:AGROECOLOGIE AU BENIN - partie 1]]

COVERING THE SOIL WITH A TYPHA AUSTRALIS MULCH in Senegal

2026-07-06T16:34:17Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

{{Vidéo
|Titre=COVERING SOILS WITH A MULCH OF TYPHA AUSTRALIS in Senegal
| Producteur=National Center for Agroecology
| Vignette=Thumbnail_youtube_3_7bYnz45Bc.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne=2026-06-29
| Durée=68 minutes
| Production=
| Vidéo=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_7bYnz45Bc
| Programme=Urbane
| Intervenants 0=Camille Archambaud
| Intervenants 1=Abibbou Mbow
| Mots-clés=Mulch, Typha
| Résumé=As part of the Urbane project, Camille Archambaud and Abibou Mbow presented the results of an agroecological experiment conducted in Senegal at the Gaston Berger University farm in Saint-Louis. The study focuses on a peanut-onion rotation, essential crops for the region. The major innovation lies in the valorization of invasive aquatic plants, such as '''Typha australis''', transformed into mulch to cover soils and compost to improve fertility.

The results demonstrate that mulching is a key lever for peanuts, significantly improving yield, biomass, and soil carbon, while reducing weed pressure. For onions, fertilization plays a predominant role in yield and bulb size. This study highlights the importance of rethinking agriculture as a living ecosystem, transforming a major environmental constraint into a valuable resource, while limiting chemical inputs for more resilient and sustainable agriculture.
}}

This video was produced by the National Center for Agroecology (CNA) https://centre-national-agroecologie.fr/ as part of the URBANE project https://urbane-project.eu/, funded by the European Union.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Research Executive Agency (REA)

This video was made as part of the URBANE project co-funded by the European Union. Website: https://urbane-project.eu/

The opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA)

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
|transcription=Hello Camille, hello Abibou. Hello Camille, hello Abibou. Hello Camille, hello Abibou. We are here today for the webinar We are here today for the webinar We are here today for the webinar presenting the results within the presenting the results within the presenting the results within the framework of the Urbane project. framework of the Urbane project. framework of the Urbane project. So Abibou and Camille will So Abibou and Camille will So Abibou and Camille will present the results of an present the results of an present the results of an experiment that was set up experiment that was set up experiment that was set up within the framework of the Urbane within the framework of the Urbane within the framework of the Urbane project in Senegal with Gastonberger project in Senegal with Gastonberger project in Senegal with Gastonberger University on a peanut and onion University on a peanut and onion University on a peanut and onion rotation. rotation. rotation. [music] So before we start and hand So before we start and hand So before we start and hand over the floor to the two main over the floor to the two main over the floor to the two main protagonists, uh my name is Alexandre protagonists, uh my name is Alexandre protagonists, uh my name is Alexandre Cotin, I am part of Verre de Terre Cotin, I am part of Verre de Terre Cotin, I am part of Verre de Terre Production. Uh, so within the Production. Uh, so within the Production. Uh, so within the framework of this project, Verre de Terre framework of this project, Verre de Terre framework of this project, Verre de Terre Production and CNA worked hand in hand Production and CNA worked hand in hand Production and CNA worked hand in hand to support the implementation to support the implementation to support the implementation of agroecological experiments on six of agroecological experiments on six of agroecological experiments on six West and North African countries and West and North African countries and West and North African countries and to support the dissemination to support the dissemination to support the dissemination of agroecological practices among of agroecological practices among of agroecological practices among different groups of stakeholders. Uh so different groups of stakeholders. Uh so different groups of stakeholders. Uh so, uh well today, we will present to you, uh well today, we will present to you, uh well today, we will present to you the results of an experiment that was the results of an experiment that was the results of an experiment that was held over the last two years in Saint-Louis, held over the last two years in Saint-Louis, held over the last two years in Saint-Louis, Senegal. Uh, as I said at the Senegal. Uh, as I said at the Senegal. Uh, as I said at the beginning, on peanuts and then on onions. beginning, on peanuts and then on onions. beginning, on peanuts and then on onions. So two crops that have a particular So two crops that have a particular So two crops that have a particular importance for Senegal and importance for Senegal and importance for Senegal and Africa in general. Uh so, the Africa in general. Uh so, the Africa in general. Uh so, the two main protagonists, uh of this webinar two main protagonists, uh of this webinar two main protagonists, uh of this webinar will be Camille Archambau, who will be Camille Archambau, who will be Camille Archambau, who works, uh, with us at Verte works, uh, with us at Verte works, uh, with us at Verte Production, uh who supported the Production, uh who supported the Production, uh who supported the implementation of experiments in Senegal and implementation of experiments in Senegal and implementation of experiments in Senegal and Abibou Mbo, who was the main Abibou Mbo, who was the main Abibou Mbo, who was the main actor, uh, of these experiments actor, uh, of these experiments actor, uh, of these experiments since he set them up and since he set them up and since he set them up and followed them throughout the and followed them throughout the and followed them throughout the year and a half. year and a half. year and a half. Uh, he coordinated all the activities Uh, he coordinated all the activities Uh, he coordinated all the activities on site and, uh, he also processed on site and, uh, he also processed on site and, uh, he also processed the results, and that is what he will the results, and that is what he will the results, and that is what he will present to you today. present to you today. present to you today. Hello dear partners. Hello dear Hello dear partners. Hello dear Hello dear partners. Hello dear partners of Urbane. My name partners of Urbane. My name partners of Urbane. My name is Abibumbo. I am a student is Abibumbo. I am a student is Abibumbo. I am a student at the University of Gaston B at the University of Gaston B at the University of Gaston B of Saint-Louis at the UFR of Saint-Louis at the UFR of Saint-Louis at the UFR of agronomic sciences, aquaculture and agronomic sciences, aquaculture and agronomic sciences, aquaculture and food technologies. food technologies. food technologies. Uh, it is an honor for me Uh, it is an honor for me Uh, it is an honor for me today to participate in this today to participate in this today to participate in this webinar. webinar. webinar. It is also a great honor to It is also a great honor to It is also a great honor to work with the partners of work with the partners of work with the partners of Urbane. So I will present Urbane. So I will present Urbane. So I will present today the results of today the results of today the results of the agroecological experiment the agroecological experiment the agroecological experiment conducted at the agricultural farm conducted at the agricultural farm conducted at the agricultural farm of the University Gonber of Saint-Louis of the University Gonber of Saint-Louis of the University Gonber of Saint-Louis within the Urbane project and also this within the Urbane project and also this within the Urbane project and also this work, I think, is the fruit of a work, I think, is the fruit of a work, I think, is the fruit of a collaboration collaboration collaboration with the University Gation B of with the University Gation B of with the University Gation B of Saint-Louis with Ver production with the Saint-Louis with Ver production with the Saint-Louis with Ver production with the other partners as well but also in other partners as well but also in other partners as well but also in collaboration at the university collaboration at the university collaboration at the university level between the UFR of agronomic level between the UFR of agronomic level between the UFR of agronomic sciences, aquaculture and food sciences, aquaculture and food sciences, aquaculture and food technologies. technologies. technologies. So I thank So I thank So I thank immensely first the professors immensely first the professors immensely first the professors who led the work through, uh, these who led the work through, uh, these who led the work through, uh, these professors. I can mention professor professors. I can mention professor professors. I can mention professor Sunour Rousal, professor Busman Sunour Rousal, professor Busman Sunour Rousal, professor Busman Tarré, professor Dem, Tarré, professor Dem, Tarré, professor Dem, professor Nicolas Jouf. These are the supervisors professor Nicolas Jouf. These are the supervisors professor Nicolas Jouf. These are the supervisors behind this work. Maybe behind this work. Maybe behind this work. Maybe it is me today who is it is me today who is it is me today who is here to present the work here to present the work here to present the work. I thank I thank I thank also Alexandre and Camille who also also Alexandre and Camille who also also Alexandre and Camille who also worked a lot with me in the worked a lot with me in the worked a lot with me in the framework of the project for the framework of the project for the framework of the project for the results and results and results and also for the activities carried out also for the activities carried out also for the activities carried out in the field. in the field. in the field. I think here is the plan of this I think here is the plan of this I think here is the plan of this presentation. I will first recall the presentation. I will first recall the presentation. I will first recall the context and objectives of the context and objectives of the context and objectives of the project then present to you the farm project then present to you the farm project then present to you the farm on which the experiment on which the experiment on which the experiment took place. Then the setup and the took place. Then the setup and the took place. Then the setup and the treatments tested. And finally, I will treatments tested. And finally, I will treatments tested. And finally, I will go into detail with the results go into detail with the results go into detail with the results first on peanuts then on onions first on peanuts then on onions first on peanuts then on onions before concluding and giving before concluding and giving before concluding and giving perspectives. perspectives. perspectives. Here is a bit of the context as agroecological Here is a bit of the context as agroecological Here is a bit of the context as agroecological systems, as you know, aim to systems, as you know, aim to systems, as you know, aim to promote and boost biodiversity promote and boost biodiversity promote and boost biodiversity within agricultural systems. It is not within agricultural systems. It is not within agricultural systems. It is not simply a question of yield, simply a question of yield, simply a question of yield, but it is about rethinking in fact but it is about rethinking in fact but it is about rethinking in fact agriculture as a living ecosystem. agriculture as a living ecosystem. agriculture as a living ecosystem. A living ecosystem where each A living ecosystem where each A living ecosystem where each component concerning soil, plants, component concerning soil, plants, component concerning soil, plants, organisms, microorganisms interacts to organisms, microorganisms interacts to organisms, microorganisms interacts to produce resilience. As you know, produce resilience. As you know, produce resilience. As you know, it is a One Health approach it is a One Health approach it is a One Health approach that immediately relates to health that immediately relates to health that immediately relates to health — one health, I mean — namely one health, I mean — namely one health, I mean — namely human health, animal health and human health, animal health and human health, animal health and at the same time the management of at the same time the management of at the same time the management of the environment to strengthen the the environment to strengthen the the environment to strengthen the biodiversity and ecosystem services biodiversity and ecosystem services biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by ecosystems. In other words, provided by ecosystems. In other words, provided by ecosystems. In other words, we cannot think of the health we cannot think of the health we cannot think of the health of populations without thinking of the health of populations without thinking of the health of populations without thinking of the health of soils and the soils and the soils and the ecosystems that nourish them. The ecosystems that nourish them. The ecosystems that nourish them. The objective of this project was to test the different types of organic matter, namely the compost, the manure and the mineral fertilizer. But the two types of organic matter are the compost and the manure, with or without mulching of Tifa in a sandy soil, since Senegal, more precisely in the Saint-Louis region, has very sandy soils with 95% sand. And also, we included in the experiment nitrogen levels, namely 75% nitrogen per hectare and 125 kg nitrogen per hectare. I will perhaps come back later on how we call the experimental setup for more details. The targeted crops were peanut and onion in crop rotation. Indeed, here I present a bit the two invasive plants we use today as agroecological innovation. Because Tifa and the Ceratophyllum demersum you also see are invasive aquatic plants, and in the Senegal river valley, it massively colonizes water bodies and causes real environmental and economic problems at the same time because it blocks everything in what is called a Tifa blockage concerning also the irrigation canals, which also creates a proliferation of mosquitoes and a reduction of aquatic biodiversity. That is why we tried to use it and create an innovation to try to valorize them. The innovation of this project was to turn this problem into an opportunity: to use these invasive plants to make an innovative compost that producers can use and also to use Tifa at the same time for soil cover, meaning we use Ceratophyllum demersum to prepare a very rich compost and use Tifa instead of cutting and degrading it, we use it for soil cover. So it is both an environmental and agricultural solution. Here I present a bit the agricultural farm of the University Gaston B of Saint-Louis, which extends over 30 hectares dedicated to simulating agricultural innovation. It is organized into several research zones and plots that you see here, identical PR and resource generation GR plots that partly finance the farm’s activities. The farm also hosts students from several agroecological, agronomy, animal production, food and aquaculture fields. So it has both a pedagogical and experimental vocation. And exactly within the project framework, it was to test new practices like those of the Urbane project. Here is the experimental setup. We crossed several factors. First, mulching expressed here as T. Tifa mulching: T0 corresponds to the absence of Tifa, T1 to the presence of Tifa mulching. Second, nitrogen level: N0 corresponds to no nitrogen, N1 to 75 kg nitrogen per hectare, and N2 to 125 kg nitrogen per hectare. Third, the type of fertilizer with five modalities: F0 without fertilization, F1 a classic mineral fertilization based on DAP and urea, F2 bovine manure, F3 a compost based on Ceratophyllum demersum (again this invasive aquatic plant used as fertilizer), and finally F4, a mineral fertilization at 150 kg nitrogen per hectare by a 6 NPK 6-10 fertilizer corresponding to the usual peasant practice in Senegal and serving as a reference. But this is for peanuts. The quantity I gave, the peasant practice of 620, is for peanuts. For onions, we used urea and NPK 10-20. I just add the information that the treatment was repeated four times. Yes, I have finished. Actually, it is a factorial design. I said that the design you see here is a factorial design, meaning a randomized design where we have 16 treatments if we combine the different factors, and each treatment is repeated four times. Yes, here I only showed the soil with these different elements at the farm level. We have the soil analysis results done by Alexandre. There are also the results. That is why I put the soil analyses done by Alexandre beyond our results we had in 2020. They are almost the same results, the granulometric analyses, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus analyses and exchangeable bases like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and so on. Cation exchange capacity. I react on that one. So, in this experiment, we did a soil analysis at the end of the experiment on the plot to compare with the 2020 data. It turns out the analyses are still being modified in the report because the labs in France do not do peanut-onion rotation and have difficulty including that in the rotation. So I put the raw results of granulometry, carbon, and exchangeable bases. As Abibou said, we did not observe significant changes in the soil analyses we did in 2026. Also note that the pH is rather high at 8.8, so rather alkaline. Okay. Now we will go directly to the results starting with peanuts. I will structure this part in three points: first the effect on yield and aerial dry biomass, second the effect on soil carbon, and third the effect on weeds. To situate a bit the calendar, peanuts were sown at the end of the rainy season and harvested about 3 months later towards the end of the season. This duration corresponds well to the usual cycle of the variety used, which is Boul. Effect of mulching on yield and aerial dry biomass. First major result, the effect of mulching on yield. As shown in figure 1, Tifa mulching has a highly significant effect on peanut yield. The Soudon test gives a p-value of 1.6 x 10^-8 confirmed by CXON with a p-value of 0.00245. These two results converge regardless of the statistical method used; the effect is clearly significant and robust. Figure 2 also shows the same positive effect on aerial dry biomass (abbreviated PAS), i.e., the dry weight of the aerial part of the plant. A good indicator, especially in Senegal, used for animal feed and very important. So there is a significant difference between mulched and non-mulched plots. So the first key message is that mulching improves both yield and plant growth because when we talk about growth, we mean stems and leaves, which is the aerial biomass. Here is the effect of fertilizer type on yield and aerial dry biomass. Looking now at the effect of fertilizer type alone without considering mulching, figure 3 shows no significant difference in yield among the different fertilizer types tested, using ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests for aerial biomass, with no significant difference. Figure 4 shows the same absence of significant effect on aerial dry biomass, which is an important result: fertilizer type alone does not explain yield differences in peanuts. I echo what Abibou said since we then studied the interactions between factors. Here, we crossed the Tifa mulching factor with fertilizer type, and the results confirm the previous ones showing no effect, with a recurrence around 400 g per square meter of dry yield. This is interesting because in an agroecological context, it means we can get a substantial benefit without necessarily increasing input costs. I think Camille, you could continue. It's the same. Here are the complete treatments on yield beyond separating mulching, nitrogen levels, and fertilizer type. Here we have the 16 treatments, and according to the results, the treatment showing a very significant difference is the one with mulching, 125 kg nitrogen per hectare, and the compost based on Ceratophyllum demersum. But apart from this treatment, even when looking closely at mulched plots, there is no significant difference with non-mulched plots, but there is a negative difference on the control. And the plot with compost and 125 kg nitrogen explains these results. Here, I separated mulched and non-mulched plots with fertilizer type. This means fertilizer type plus mulching plus nitrogen level: there is no significant difference between mulched and non-mulched plots. That is, once mulched, there is no significant difference between mulched and non-mulched plots. But at the level of mulched plots, there is also no significant difference. But if we compare mulched and non-mulched plots including all fertilizer and nitrogen levels, there is a significant difference between the control and the plot with compost with 125 kg nitrogen per hectare with mulching. Here is the effect of nitrogen level alone. What about nitrogen alone? Here we do not consider fertilizer type and all, only nitrogen level. Figure 8 shows no significant effect of nitrogen level on yield, with an ANOVA p-value of 0.815 and a Kruskal-Wallis p-value of 0.72, showing no significant differences. Figure 9 shows the same for aerial biomass. All nitrogen levels share the same statistical letter, so no significant difference. This result is not surprising because peanuts, as you know, are legumes capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen via symbiosis with rhizobial bacteria. So they depend much less on external nitrogen inputs than other crops. This probably confirms these results. Here is the effect on soil carbon. Mulching here has an extremely significant effect with a Wilcoxon p-value of 4.7 x 10^-11, one of the most marked results of the whole study. Figure 11 also shows an effect of fertilizer type on soil carbon, confirming that organic inputs, especially compost and manure, contrary to their neutral effect on yield, contribute well to improving soil fertility in the long term. Here is the effect of nitrogen levels on soil carbon. Nitrogen level this time has a significant effect on soil carbon with a p-value of 0.0294 by Kruskal-Wallis test. This is consistent even if nitrogen does not directly influence peanut yield; it likely participates in soil carbon dynamics, probably via its effect on microbial activity. Interestingly, when studying the interaction of these two factors together, we observe that the effect of mulching is amplified with nitrogen dose. Without nitrogen, there is a difference of 286 mg between mulched and non-mulched, while adding 125 kg nitrogen increases this gap to 248. So the two effects combine favorably to enrich the soil in active organic matter. Here is the effect on weed biomass, which is important. The third indicator, weed pressure, usually we use the term weed as bad weed. Actually, it is also important as it competes with the crop. Mulching has a very significant effect in reducing weed biomass at both 44 and 64 days after sowing. Here, fertilizer types and nitrogen levels show no significant effect. That is why we only gave photos and not graphs. Thank you. This absence of effect exists when studying modalities separately. However, when studying their interaction this time, as shown in this graph, we have the three factors combined with a triple interaction. That is, when combining mulching effect plus nitrogen dose plus fertilizer type, we get results influenced by this triple interaction. Here, we measured weed pressure at day 44 after sowing. We observe that the best treatments are with 75 kg nitrogen per hectare, with mulching and with mineral or bovine manure fertilization. Conversely, when mineral fertilization with a high nitrogen dose (125) and no mulching is applied, we have an exponential effect of weed presence. They are much more stimulated. Here, we try to find optimal combinations to limit weed pressure. Similarly, weed pressure was measured at day 67 after sowing to see cumulative effect over time. We observe that the control, compost, and mineral fertilization with mulching and with no or low nitrogen (75 kg) are favorable, whereas high nitrogen and no mulching plots are much more weedy. We then performed a principal component analysis simplified here for clarity. What to identify here is that we have a factorial plan with red arrows representing our studied variables. Each point represents a plot colored according to study modality and nitrogen dose. Interestingly, all groups overlap. This means no nitrogen dose stands out for yield or weed pressure. However, when coloring plots by mulching (red for absence, blue for presence), we observe a clear distinction: pod yield is favored in mulched plots due to much lower weed pressure, whereas absence of mulching favors weeds. Here is the conclusion on peanuts. Mulching is the most determining factor significantly improving yield, aerial biomass, soil carbon, and reducing weeds. Fertilizer type and nitrogen level have limited impact on yield parameters, consistent with peanuts' ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Only soil carbon responds positively to organic fertilizers, indicating improved soil fertility. Here is a quick synthesis of observed effects for peanut crop. Interactions are represented by small stars. We observe interactions between mulching and fertilizer type for several modalities. Most importantly, mulching favors all production criteria of peanut crop. Therefore, mulching plots is highly recommended. Fertilizer type should be adjusted according to farmer capacity. Mineral fertilization has a more direct short-term impact, while compost and manure promote slower degradation but enrich soil long-term. For nitrogen dose, doubling from 75 to 125 kg is not necessarily significantly needed. We recommend doses around 75 kg nitrogen depending on farmer priorities; some combinations are more or less favorable. Now let's move to the second crop studied in rotation, onion, following the same structure as for peanuts: effect on yield, bulb diameter, and weeds. Onion was grown using the Granade F1 hybrid variety in fresh season rotation after peanuts, planted respectively at the end and middle of the cycle depending on plots. Here is the effect of mulching on yield. First result on onion yield. Unlike peanuts, mulching has no statistically significant effect on onion yield. Even if the figure shows a somewhat higher yield on mulched plots, the difference is not significant. Here is the effect of fertilizer types on yield. Fertilizer type has a very significant effect on yield with a Kruskal-Wallis p-value of 0.003. We observe a clear hierarchy between treatments shown by different letters on figure 2, from A for best treatments to C for least performing, a major difference with peanuts. Onion, which cannot fix atmospheric nitrogen, depends more directly on fertilization. There is a very significant difference between treatments, e.g., mineral fertilizer shows much better results than others. Here is the effect of nitrogen levels on yield. Nitrogen level also significantly influences yield with the same test, Kruskal-Wallis p-value 0.0374. Figure 3 shows two groups: group A distinguished by three letters and group B, suggesting a minimal nitrogen dose is needed to optimize onion yield. Here, even if 125 kg nitrogen per hectare is applied compared to 75 kg and the peasant control, there is no significant difference except for the negative control with no input, which shows a significant difference. These results come from the second harvest, done 3 weeks after the first. The objective was to observe potential growth differences between first and second harvests to see the effect of this extra time on bulb growth. We observe a significant yield increase between the two harvests, which is interesting for farmers to wait 3 more weeks expecting better yield. This is not by chance. We also observe a significant interaction between mulching and fertilizer type. Here is the effect of mulching on bulb diameter, which is important. Mulching has no significant effect on bulb diameter (p=0.7765). However, fertilizer type has a highly significant effect on bulb diameter, consistent with its effect on yield. Fertilization directly conditions bulb size and commercial quality. Nitrogen level also significantly affects bulb diameter, confirming its importance for onion. There is no difference between peasant control, 75 and 125 kg nitrogen, so applying more than 75 kg nitrogen is unnecessary. Effect of mulching on weeds: mulching significantly reduces weed biomass with Wilcoxon p-values around 3 to 4 x 10^-6 on both dates. Even if mulching does not increase onion yield, it remains an effective tool for weed management, reducing labor time in plots. Effect of fertilizer types on weeds: fertilizer type also has a very significant effect on weed biomass on both dates. The effect of fertilizer on weeds is less consistent than that of mulching. Mineral fertilizer shows much more weed biomass on both first and second harvests. Although there is no significant difference between mineral fertilizer, negative control, peasant control, and compost, mineral fertilizer shows a significant difference compared to others and manure, which somewhat protects weeds to avoid their development. Effect of nitrogen levels on weeds: nitrogen level has no significant effect on weed biomass on any date. All modalities share almost the same data. This is interesting because when combining the three factors, nitrogen dose becomes significant, as well as mulching and fertilizer type. Here, as before, we have a graph with the three factors represented. We see that mineral fertilization with a high nitrogen dose is very high and with no mulching, weed biomass reaches 2250 g, which is very high. However, mulching divides weed pressure by 5 in this situation. This is explained by the fact that high mineral nitrogen benefits both weeds and crop, making mulching an indispensable control tool. Conversely, the combination of compost with mulching and low nitrogen dose shows the lowest weed pressure (450 g), the most interesting combination to reduce weeding time. Here is a graph showing the number of weed species identified in a campaign. Mulching reduces weed flora by blocking germination of the most competitive species, reducing identified weed species by up to 51%. We then performed an indicator value test to identify species favored or disfavored by mulching. Five species among 36 identified were completely suppressed by mulching, while one opportunistic species, green maranta, was favored, developing thanks to mulching. This species is erect and less competitive than creeping species that were hindered. Returning to principal component analysis, plots are represented in blue for mulching and red for no mulching, on axes of yield (horizontal) and weed pressure (vertical). These are the two main factors influencing plot distribution. Mulching does not affect yield as seen before, but absence of mulching strongly increases weed pressure. For nitrogen modality, 75 and 125 kg nitrogen groups overlap, meaning doubling dose does not significantly change yield or weed pressure. Absence of nitrogen slightly decreases yield and weed pressure due to less nitrogen in soil. To summarize this second part, onion is much more sensitive to fertilization than peanuts. Fertilizer type and nitrogen level significantly influence yield and bulb weight. Mulching, although not significantly affecting yield, plays a crucial role in weed reduction. The combination of mulching and fertilization is the best strategy to optimize onion yields. Here is a summary of observed effects with generally positive effects of mulching, positive effects as Abibou said on fertilizer type, and positive effects on yield parameters with a 3-week harvest delay, and recommendations not to exceed 75 kg nitrogen per hectare to save inputs for farmers. Here are some perspectives. We sent soil samples to the Dakar Sangalcam lab to analyze global enzymatic activity, fluorescence, and to look at density and structure of nematode communities (bacterivorous, fungivorous, omnivorous, carnivorous, and phytoparasites) and microbial communities (bacteria and fungi). Thank you for your kind attention and thank you very much. Thank you very much for the presentation to both of you for very encouraging results, I found. We will do a Q&A and discussion, mainly on how to transfer these results to Senegalese farmers. My first question at this stage is: for the next year 3, following these results and initial analyses, if you were to set up an experimental plot again, which modality would you choose? What would you prioritize? What do you think is most interesting for applicability? This is a somewhat open question to relaunch perspectives and projections of what can be done next with Urbane. I don't know who wants to start if you are still there, Camille, if you have an idea. Yes. Yes, I think, uh, for the question, it's very important, especially in Senegal with climate change issues and land degradation, it is good to find strategies to boost production and have good yield while preserving natural resources like soil. But for me, based on the results, it is not easy to draw conclusions because it is a one-year experiment. Maybe if we did three repetitions over three years to see if we get the same results or evolution in soil properties, because for peanuts and onions, we can have significant results now, but maybe in two years mulched plots with organic fertilization will give much higher yields than plots with mineral fertilizer. As you know, mineral fertilizer is directly assimilable by plants, while manure and compost work on soil fertility and long term. I think the recommendation for Urbane 2 or 3 is to continue work and try to install this experiment not only at the farm but also with producers to show and do experiments there, then compare UGB and farmers' results to see which treatment is most effective for good yield while preserving soil and maintaining soil fertility. That's what I propose. Do you want to add something, Camille? I consider it was very complete. I have no further remarks. Okay. Habibou, regarding conducting cross experiments partly at the UGB farm and partly with farmers, what do you think about what has been set up and what would be easiest to transfer directly to farmers? I will reformulate my question differently. What, despite good agronomic results, might not be transferable as innovation to farmers? Something that, although working well in an experimental plot, might not be massively adopted because it requires too much work or investment? Is there something in particular or a modality or innovation? You know, for example, in experimental plots, we control everything and I am always there with students doing analyses and checking for problems, but it's not the same for farmers. That's why I propose to find plots alongside producers, try to follow them, show them how it works. First, it's to save time. After results, we will directly valorize with them, show them what to do to get good yield all the time, maybe not use too much chemical fertilizer and pesticides. As you know, on onions for example, I produced biopesticides based on garlic and neem to fight pests that attacked me. But in reality, they use a lot of pesticides, spending a lot, while they don't get more yield than us in experiments. So if we install experimental plots next to their plots with mulching, mineral fertilizer or organic matter like compost and manure, after harvest, they will see that they don't need to spend much money to get good yield, while they don't have this tool to valorize results because for example Tifa and Ceratophyllum demersum are considered as waste, not something valuable. While we show them as innovation that these are things we can improve, put in plots, and increase production, I think they will do it. I would also add that fertilization modalities can combine well, meaning we can reduce mineral fertilization and introduce compost once a year to get nitrogen long term and short term for current crops. OK. Thank you very much. Thank you very much for the answers. This allows me to continue with the next question about the experimental setup. Tifa mulching is a mulch that degrades little or not at all under Saint-Louis conditions. From what we saw, you applied it at the beginning of the peanut season, if I am not mistaken. You reapplied a bit for onions but did not entirely change the mulch. So it is an investment but medium term, I would say. It will work over several cropping seasons. Do you think the mulching effect could be increased if we fertilized a bit? Since Tifa is a very carbon-rich mulch that will take a long time to degrade, what if part of the fertilization used on peanuts, where nitrogen was not significant for final yield, was applied to Tifa instead? Those 75 nitrogen units used for peanuts, what would happen if we fertilized Tifa instead of peanuts since it does not change peanut yield? What do you think would happen if we used this mineral fertilization or nitrogen dose for Tifa rather than peanuts? And to follow on what Camille said, choosing where to fertilize, not increasing inputs but improving nitrogen and carbon availability using this fertilization dose for Tifa. It is really a curiosity question, not a trap. I wonder if you have an answer. This would mean introducing nitrogen inputs in rivers and watercourses to facilitate nitrogen insertion in the plant or when it is in dry mulch mode? No, no, no. Not fertilizing watercourses directly with mineral nitrogen, but on Tifa straw to improve degradation. Basically, adding nitrogen lowers the carbon to nitrogen ratio, so the soil can degrade it faster and organic matter of Tifa would be more rapidly usable by soil. So we reduce mulching time but increase fertilization thanks to Tifa. For me, I think it is not important, but not important for mulching. As you know, you saw the results, the effect is mulching. So why reduce mulching and add fertilization? I think it is not ideal. The ideal now is mulching with Tifa's role, especially soil moisture retention and keeping inputs for evapotranspiration. I think that is its role. So instead of increasing fertilization, the goal is to reduce fertilization especially with levels and increase Tifa protection a bit. I think since there is a very significant effect. Hmm. I agree with you, it is really a play on soil physical conditions, humidity and temperature. However, what could be interesting to explore is how much we should fragment Tifa pieces. Would chopping them, composting them, favor faster degradation in soil but risk higher weed pressure because of more interstices and space for light? But I think there are adjustment variables on Tifa form when applied and its internal physical properties. OK. Why did I ask this? Because the first part of the experiment, if I understood correctly, the significant factor on yield was mulching. The second part for peanuts was mulching. Mulching really changes yield and all measured parameters, aerial biomass, etc. The second part of the experiment, where onion was planted after peanuts, fertilization matters more. We need 125 units to reach max yield, but 75 also reached it with different modalities. If we fertilize Tifa, the Tifa straw during the first part of the experiment, Tifa does its mulching work, improving peanut yield. The 75 units applied to peanuts are applied on the straw. It will not degrade instantly but we have mulching effect on peanuts and yield increase. The nitrogen stock in soil from Tifa degradation starts when transplanting onions. We still have some straw so mulching effect on weeds is reduced. But the significant effect on onions is fertilization. So maybe, as research hypotheses, if we fertilize Tifa, we use mulching effect for peanuts to maximize yield and also maximize onion yield by using Tifa degradation as additional fertilization plus compost. This study is incredible and we could do a rotation but we did not study nitrogen fixation by peanuts for onions. Another question is if plots that maximized peanut biomass production were also the plots where onions were planted with mulching? This is a question. I will answer quickly and then hand over. What is interesting is that peanut crop residues, the biomass, were exported. This export of aerial biomass means we did not necessarily have additional nitrogen input in soil for the next onion crop. What would be interesting to study is if we leave this biomass on site to degrade under mulching, then we might have higher nitrogen inputs thanks to the previous crop. But today, this was not done in this trial. It would be interesting to study this and also symbiotic interactions at nodules, for example counting nodules to see if mulching favors bacteria in soil depending on physico-chemical conditions or if they are disfavored, leading to less nodulation and less symbiotic fixation. [clears throat] Maybe I will add but Camille said everything. She answered the question. I think, as she said, remember peanuts are legumes, so it is normal with mulching. But for onions, it is also normal to have these results, confirming literature. So as Camille said, if we had not removed aerial biomass, maybe we would see peanut impact on symbiotic interaction with onions in rotation. And in that case, maybe nitrogen participates thanks to previous crop. But today, we tested exportation corresponding to local context, meaning forage has a high economic value and exporting biomass can serve for animal feed, a real added value for farmers who would not incorporate it into soil due to costs. Thank you, very clear. We moved to valorization and local context since we can propose things only if adapted locally. Otherwise, it is useless. It cannot be massively disseminated or convince farmers. I want to bounce on something you said, Abibou, at the end of the presentation. You used organic and mineral fertilization in the experiment. But for insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, there was no use of phytosanitary products. You made your own biopesticides from neem and chili. I think we should dig more into this because it is very important if this experiment shows we can reduce or avoid treatments for farmers. It seems to me, maybe I am wrong, but this is a significant expense for farmers locally, for fungicides, herbicides, insecticides. This is a huge lever for action with farmers. Maybe we won't increase yield but reduce production costs significantly since we apply little or no phytosanitary products. I want to know what you think. Yes, indeed, in Senegal, pesticide, herbicide, and fungicide use is high and expensive. Some farmers spend a lot on these. Using natural products and valuing them, saying it is possible to grow onions and other crops without pesticides, beyond health, economic and environmental aspects, is very important. We must make it known that it is possible with natural products based on garlic, neem, chili, etc. They can be used preventively, even if curative sometimes with increased dose, but preventive use can avoid diseases and reduce chemical use. What do you think is the first lever to work with farmer groups? How to get this experiment out of UGB plots? For me, as I said, first present results, start dissemination by showing exactly what we do next to them, try to install plots with producer groups since there are producer groups in the area. Have an experimental plot at farmers' level and show it is possible to have good production without pesticides and without intensive soil work because soil is heavily tilled. We did a bit of offset at the start for peanuts and onions, we did nothing and got incredible yields. So make them understand this, but to make them understand, we must install production plots there and follow them, then with results, I think they will take it. This is good dissemination and as soon as possible. Otherwise, if we do it alone here in our experimental farms, it is very hard to get them to adopt and change practices. I would add that in parallel, there is real work to do on communication to consumers who can buy agroecologically produced onions or peanuts and must be able to distinguish that this product favors regenerative practices. So see how it works with labeling, market presentation, and pricing. There is real work on marketing. Beyond that, Camille, there is also quality aspect. We sent onion samples to ENSA de Tiè to check onion quality with different modalities. Even if mineral fertilization gives very good yields, compost based on Ceratophyllum demersum shows much better quality than mineral fertilizer. So in terms of onion conservation, since Senegal imports onions and cannot store onions 2-3-4 months, there is a period with no onions and prices are high. If these practices allow storing onions 2-3-4 months, it will be good for producers who can keep onions until August, September, October and sell them. But in Senegal, there is almost 5-6 months with no onions and prices are high. So this is a reflection path to find treatments giving good onion or peanut quality after production when needed. In parallel with conservation quality, there is nutritional quality that can be influenced by some modalities. So compost insertion could favor onions richer in nutrients, healthier, and thus promote these practices. Very well. Thank you very much. Very interesting for the future. I always try to imagine the future, anticipate how to give direction once such an experiment is done. How to maximize valorization and adoption of good practices if they are environmentally, socially, and economically performant. So we start to have reflection paths. And a last question: is peanut-onion rotation widely practiced by producers or do they use the same plot year after year producing onion always on the same plot? In Senegal, crop rotations are common even if in the Senegal river valley like Saint-Louis, Agana, Podor, Matem, it is not necessarily that farmers use peanut and onion rotation but rotation with onion and other crops. But most farmers use monoculture, growing onion on the same plot year after year. Some do rotation but they are not many. I want to add one last thing: we must consider the pedoclimatic context of each situation and farmer because zones vary in salinity, sometimes linked to proximity to the coast. So these practices and results here are not necessarily adapted to all soil types and must be tested with different edaphic conditions. Thank you. Do you have a last word you want to share about this experiment, what you are proud of and want to share with those watching this webinar? Farmers, students, I leave the floor to you to close this webinar if you want. Well, from my side, I find that Tifa is a real opportunity in the agricultural sector. This valorization as mulch is very promising. I want to especially thank Abibou for his work and these great results. Thank you very much Camille. I also thank you very much for support on analyses and statistics. Thank you very much also Alexandre. Thank you very much dear partner. I also thank professor Tié, professor Sou and the whole UGB team. Just to say it is interesting, we have incredible results but we must valorize them. We cannot limit ourselves to this experiment only. Beyond results, we must go all the way even if it requires repeating experiments all over Senegal or Africa to see which treatments and innovations we can show in agroecology to solve farmers' input problems. I think we have incredible results. So we must continue research on Tifa and Ceratophyllum demersum, try to valorize them with farmers. Thank you very much. Thank you both. I will also conclude that this experiment was really about closing the loop, a One Health approach considering human, soil, and plant health, valorizing an invasive species that disrupts water flows and irrigation, which is crucial for Senegalese agriculture and fruit and vegetable production. To transform this invasive species into a resource and adapt it to rotation or at least crops with high added value in Senegal, onion and peanut. This is very interesting, with improvement and modification paths for some technical itineraries still to explore. And yes, there is a lot of raw material that can be exploited. We must see it not as waste but as a resource. So thank you both for presenting these results. Congratulations for the work done within Urbane. Generally, we do not realize with a one-hour webinar how much work is behind. So congratulations to both of you. And I hope to see you soon to present results of the next experiment on peanuts and onions when we find the perfect mix.
}}

{{Vidéo
|Titre=COVERING SOILS WITH TYPHA AUSTRALIS MULCH in Senegal
| Producteur=National Center for Agroecology
| Vignette=Thumbnail_youtube_3_7bYnz45Bc.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne=2026-06-29
| Durée=68 minutes
| Production=
| Vidéo=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_7bYnz45Bc
| Programme=Urbane
| Intervenants 0=Camille Archambaud
| Intervenants 1=Abibbou Mbow
| Mots-clés=Mulch, Typha
| Résumé=As part of the Urbane project, Camille Archambaud and Abibou Mbow presented the results of an agroecological experiment conducted in Senegal at the Gaston Berger University farm in Saint-Louis. The study focuses on a peanut-onion rotation, essential crops for the region. The major innovation lies in the valorization of invasive aquatic plants, such as '''Typha australis''', transformed into mulch to cover soils and compost to improve fertility.

The results demonstrate that mulching is a key lever for peanuts, significantly improving yield, biomass, and soil carbon, while reducing weed pressure. For onions, fertilization plays a predominant role in yield and bulb size. This study highlights the importance of rethinking agriculture as a living ecosystem, transforming a major environmental constraint into a valuable resource, while limiting chemical inputs for more resilient and sustainable agriculture.
}}

This video was produced by the National Center for Agroecology (CNA) https://centre-national-agroecologie.fr/ as part of the URBANE project https://urbane-project.eu/, funded by the European Union.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Research Executive Agency (REA)

This video was made as part of the URBANE project co-funded by the European Union. Website: https://urbane-project.eu/

The opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA)

{{Pages liées}}

{{Résumé long
|Résumé=== Covering soils with Typha australis mulch in Senegal ==

This webinar presents the results of an agroecological experiment conducted as part of the Urbane project in Senegal, in collaboration with Gaston Berger University of Saint-Louis. The work focused on a crop rotation including peanut and onion, two crops of major importance for the region.

The speakers, '''Camille Archambaud''' (Ver de Terre Production) and '''Abibbou Mbow''' (student at Gaston Berger University), detailed the effects of using invasive aquatic plants, ''Typha australis'' and ''Ceratophyllum demersum'', as a lever for agroecological innovation.

== Project Context and Objectives ==

The project aims to rethink agriculture as a living ecosystem within a “One Health” framework (one health: human, animal, and environmental health). In the Saint-Louis region, characterized by very sandy soils (95% sand), the objective was to test different types of organic matter (compost, manure, mineral fertilizer) with or without ''Typha'' mulching.

''Typha'' and ''Ceratophyllum demersum'' are aquatic plants that proliferate massively in the Senegal River valley, causing blockages in irrigation canals and promoting mosquito proliferation. The project transforms this environmental nuisance into a resource for agriculture through compost production and direct use as mulch to cover soils.

== Experimental Setup ==

The experiment follows a randomized factorial design with 16 treatments repeated four times, crossing three factors:
# '''Mulching (T):''' absence (T0) or presence of ''Typha'' (T1).
# '''Nitrogen (N):''' control without nitrogen (N0), 75 kg/ha (N1), 125 kg/ha (N2).
# '''Fertilizer (F):''' control (F0), conventional mineral (F1), cattle manure (F2), compost based on ''Ceratophyllum demersum'' (F3), or local traditional practice (F4 - reference).

== Results on Peanut ==

* '''Yield and biomass:''' ''Typha'' mulching has a highly significant effect on yield and dry aerial biomass. Mulching improves plant growth regardless of the fertilizer type.
* '''Fertilization and nitrogen:''' Fertilizer type alone did not show a significant difference in yield. Similarly, the nitrogen input level had no significant effect, explained by the peanut’s ability, as a legume, to fix atmospheric nitrogen.
* '''Soil carbon:''' Mulching has an extremely positive effect on soil carbon content. Organic inputs (compost and manure) contribute to long-term fertility improvement.
* '''Weed management:''' Mulching significantly reduces weed biomass.

== Results on Onion ==

* '''Sensitivity to fertilization:''' Unlike peanut, onion is very sensitive to fertilization and nitrogen level for its yield and bulb diameter.
* '''Role of mulching:''' Although mulching does not directly affect onion yield, it remains an essential management tool to drastically reduce weed biomass (divided by 5 in some cases), thus reducing weeding time.
* '''Quality and harvest:''' A three-week harvest delay allows a significant increase in yield. The use of natural biopesticides (based on garlic, neem, or chili) enabled avoiding chemical inputs throughout the trial.

== Perspectives and Conclusions ==

Stakeholders emphasize that ''Typha'' represents a major opportunity for the Senegalese agricultural sector by transforming an invasive waste into a valuable resource.

Future considerations include:
* '''Extension:''' Establish demonstration plots directly on farmers’ fields to allow them to observe the economic effectiveness of the practices (reducing input and phytosanitary product costs).
* '''Quality:''' Analyze the nutritional quality and storage capacity of products from these agroecological practices, a crucial issue for Senegal, which imports a large part of its onion production.
* '''Research:''' Continue studying long-term interactions (microbial community structure, nematodes, soil enzymes) and refine technical itineraries according to local edaphic conditions.

In conclusion, the holistic approach adopted by the Urbane project allows “closing the loop” by simultaneously improving soil health, farmer profitability, and reducing local environmental nuisances.

}}
[[fr:COUVRIR LES SOLS AVEC UN MULCH DE TYPHA AUSTRALIS au Sénégal]]

AGROECOLOGY IN BENIN - Part 2

2026-07-06T16:33:28Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

{{Vidéo
|Titre=AGROECOLOGY IN BENIN - Part 2
| Producteur=National Center for Agroecology
| Vignette=Thumbnail_youtube_kOkw-8KEyIY.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne=2026-06-25
| Durée=63 minutes
| Production=
| Vidéo=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOkw-8KEyIY
| Programme=Urbane
| Intervenants 0=Edgar Deguénon
| Intervenants 1=Antoine Troji
| Mots-clés=
| Résumé=In this second part dedicated to agroecology in Benin, Antoine Troji, agronomist involved in the SAVABE project, presents the results of trials conducted in farming environments to combat root-knot nematodes in chili pepper cultivation. This multi-stakeholder project, funded by the European Union and the Embassy of the Netherlands, allowed testing endogenous and scientific innovations, such as the use of Crotalaria, African basil, or indigenous microorganisms.

The study highlights encouraging results for soil health, although adoption by producers requires constant adaptation to local economic and technical constraints. The discussion also addresses the crucial importance of the agroecological transition, supported by Edgar Deguénon who details the role of the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) to certify and promote organic products in local markets, thus ensuring better profitability for farmers engaged in this sustainable approach.
}}

This video was produced by the National Center for Agroecology (CNA) https://centre-national-agroecologie.fr/ as part of the URBANE project https://urbane-project.eu/, funded by the European Union.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Research Executive Agency (REA).

This video was made as part of the URBANE project co-funded by the European Union. Website: https://urbane-project.eu/

The opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA)

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
|transcription=[music] Well, hello everyone. So I am Well, hello everyone. So I am Well, hello everyone. So I am Antoine 23 uh agronomist so engineer Antoine 23 uh agronomist so engineer Antoine 23 uh agronomist so engineer agronomist and not researcher so I agronomist and not researcher so I agronomist and not researcher so I clarify again uh at CRADE. Uh so I clarify again uh at CRADE. Uh so I clarify again uh at CRADE. Uh so I am not a project manager either but well, not a project manager either but well, not a project manager either but well, I am involved in the Savage project, no I am involved in the Savage project, no I am involved in the Savage project, no problem. problem. problem. Uh and so through this project, we were able Uh and so through this project, we were able Uh and so through this project, we were able to carry out a number of activities to carry out a number of activities to carry out a number of activities including trials in farmer environments for including trials in farmer environments for including trials in farmer environments for the management of nematode galls in the the management of nematode galls in the the management of nematode galls in the cultivation in Benin and in the cultivation in Benin and in the cultivation in Benin and in the cultivation of chili pepper in the south of cultivation of chili pepper in the south of cultivation of chili pepper in the south of Benin. Benin. Benin. I would like to thank the urban project I would like to thank the urban project I would like to thank the urban project already for giving me the floor to already for giving me the floor to already for giving me the floor to present some results. present some results. present some results. Uh first a few words about the SBGE project quickly. So it is a project Uh first a few words about the SBGE project quickly. So it is a project Uh first a few words about the SBGE project quickly. So it is a project in three countries, Benin, Burkina Faso and in three countries, Benin, Burkina Faso and in three countries, Benin, Burkina Faso and Mali. Mali. Mali. Uh it is a 5-year project that has been Uh it is a 5-year project that has been Uh it is a 5-year project that has been funded by the European Union and funded by the European Union and funded by the European Union and the Embassy of the Netherlands. So we have the Embassy of the Netherlands. So we have the Embassy of the Netherlands. So we have several partners involved several partners involved several partners involved in this project. So the World Vegetable in this project. So the World Vegetable in this project. So the World Vegetable Center hosting me uh in Benin. Center hosting me uh in Benin. Center hosting me uh in Benin. So we are within the ITA station at Baumcalavi. Uh there are the ITA at Baumcalavi. Uh there are the ITA at Baumcalavi. Uh there are the partners from Wageningen, the partners from Wageningen, the partners from Wageningen, the Dutch, the Sirad and then the the Dutch, the Sirad and then the the Dutch, the Sirad and then the national research partners from the national research partners from the national research partners from the three countries who have contributed three countries who have contributed three countries who have contributed significantly to this project. significantly to this project. significantly to this project. Uh just to Uh just to Uh just to add also so it is a project add also so it is a project add also so it is a project that works both on supply and that works both on supply and that works both on supply and demand. So on the supply side we had demand. So on the supply side we had demand. So on the supply side we had the package 3 that CAD implemented the package 3 that CAD implemented the package 3 that CAD implemented on agricultural practices but on agricultural practices but on agricultural practices but also our colleagues from WorldVeg who also also our colleagues from WorldVeg who also also our colleagues from WorldVeg who also worked on varieties worked on varieties worked on varieties and Wageningen who worked on the and Wageningen who worked on the and Wageningen who worked on the consumption of vegetables. consumption of vegetables. consumption of vegetables. So uh it is a project of different So uh it is a project of different So uh it is a project of different institutions. institutions. institutions. For us, for the work package 3 of the For us, for the work package 3 of the For us, for the work package 3 of the SVET project, so we had uh here work SVET project, so we had uh here work SVET project, so we had uh here work consisting of designing agroecological consisting of designing agroecological consisting of designing agroecological cropping systems in market gardening cropping systems in market gardening cropping systems in market gardening systems. systems. systems. And uh so at the beginning of the project, we And uh so at the beginning of the project, we And uh so at the beginning of the project, we carried out a large diagnostic on the carried out a large diagnostic on the carried out a large diagnostic on the production systems in the three production systems in the three production systems in the three countries. So we were able to reach more than countries. So we were able to reach more than countries. So we were able to reach more than 1200 producers, Benin, Burkina and 1200 producers, Benin, Burkina and 1200 producers, Benin, Burkina and Mali. Mali. Mali. And uh so we surveyed the And uh so we surveyed the And uh so we surveyed the producers’ practices from soil producers’ practices from soil producers’ practices from soil preparation to harvest preparation to harvest preparation to harvest including questions about including questions about including questions about fertilization, crop protection, fertilization, crop protection, fertilization, crop protection, sowing, irrigation. sowing, irrigation. sowing, irrigation. And so we were able to identify the And so we were able to identify the And so we were able to identify the main constraints of market gardening main constraints of market gardening main constraints of market gardening producers related to producers related to producers related to the use of pesticides or mineral the use of pesticides or mineral the use of pesticides or mineral fertilizers. Uh difficulties in fertilizers. Uh difficulties in fertilizers. Uh difficulties in terms of soil fertility and others terms of soil fertility and others terms of soil fertility and others also difficulties in pest also difficulties in pest also difficulties in pest management, particularly nematode management, particularly nematode management, particularly nematode galls but also bacterial galls but also bacterial galls but also bacterial wilt, management of acids which wilt, management of acids which wilt, management of acids which was a major issue was a major issue was a major issue since the invasion of the new pest in since the invasion of the new pest in since the invasion of the new pest in West Africa. We also West Africa. We also West Africa. We also worked on red spider mites on worked on red spider mites on worked on red spider mites on tomato, so the pranicus. tomato, so the pranicus. tomato, so the pranicus. So this diagnosis also allowed uh So this diagnosis also allowed uh So this diagnosis also allowed uh to identify endogenous innovations. to identify endogenous innovations. to identify endogenous innovations. So these are innovations that are So these are innovations that are So these are innovations that are little known to research uh that little known to research uh that little known to research uh deserve to be explored, deepened, deserve to be explored, deepened, deserve to be explored, deepened, uh and improved. And so there are uh and improved. And so there are uh and improved. And so there are a number of controlled or semi-controlled a number of controlled or semi-controlled a number of controlled or semi-controlled trials that have been trials that have been trials that have been set up through the project and set up through the project and set up through the project and partner projects where we were able to partner projects where we were able to partner projects where we were able to test endogenous innovations but test endogenous innovations but test endogenous innovations but also research innovations. also research innovations. also research innovations. What interests us here are What interests us here are What interests us here are rather the trials in farmer rather the trials in farmer rather the trials in farmer environments. environments. environments. So it was important for us to So it was important for us to So it was important for us to finally find and test innovations finally find and test innovations finally find and test innovations that clearly address a problem that clearly address a problem that clearly address a problem of producers. Uh of producers. Uh of producers. Uh uh so we organized participatory uh so we organized participatory uh so we organized participatory multi-stakeholder workshops with multi-stakeholder workshops with multi-stakeholder workshops with producers but not only producers but not only producers but not only also actors in the value chain to also actors in the value chain to also actors in the value chain to discuss innovations to be tested discuss innovations to be tested discuss innovations to be tested taking into account certain taking into account certain taking into account certain economic and social factors. uh you cannot economic and social factors. uh you cannot economic and social factors. uh you cannot test just anything with the test just anything with the test just anything with the producers uh if behind we know producers uh if behind we know producers uh if behind we know that adoption is impossible. that adoption is impossible. that adoption is impossible. That is to say we will make sure That is to say we will make sure That is to say we will make sure that these innovations are financially that these innovations are financially that these innovations are financially accessible uh and that the products accessible uh and that the products accessible uh and that the products for example tested and that for example tested and that for example tested and that we can find or produce them we can find or produce them we can find or produce them locally. So this was done locally. So this was done locally. So this was done through Focus Group workshops, through Focus Group workshops, through Focus Group workshops, video workshops including video workshops including video workshops including one where Romuald one where Romuald one where Romuald was able to participate. was able to participate. was able to participate. And so these trials in farmer And so these trials in farmer And so these trials in farmer environments uh there were several on environments uh there were several on environments uh there were several on nematode management, bacterial nematode management, bacterial nematode management, bacterial wilt management and acid wilt management and acid wilt management and acid management. When these innovations are When these innovations are When these innovations are validated through a participatory validated through a participatory validated through a participatory evaluation with producers, they are then evaluation with producers, they are then evaluation with producers, they are then disseminated through a network of disseminated through a network of disseminated through a network of demonstration plots in farmer demonstration plots in farmer demonstration plots in farmer environments. So in Benin, there were about environments. So in Benin, there were about environments. So in Benin, there were about twenty school farms twenty school farms twenty school farms to disseminate these practices. to disseminate these practices. to disseminate these practices. We realized that this was not We realized that this was not We realized that this was not sufficient and that it was important sufficient and that it was important sufficient and that it was important to strengthen the capacities of to strengthen the capacities of to strengthen the capacities of producers and extension actors on producers and extension actors on producers and extension actors on basic agronomic knowledge basic agronomic knowledge basic agronomic knowledge for example on for example on for example on identification and recognition identification and recognition identification and recognition of pest insects and distinguishing of pest insects and distinguishing of pest insects and distinguishing them from predatory insects them from predatory insects them from predatory insects and beneficial insects. uh training and beneficial insects. uh training and beneficial insects. uh training also on basic techniques also on basic techniques also on basic techniques on the use of synthetic on the use of synthetic on the use of synthetic pesticides because in fact we realize pesticides because in fact we realize pesticides because in fact we realize that everything is done that everything is done that everything is done used not necessarily in the used not necessarily in the used not necessarily in the right way and not necessarily in the right way and not necessarily in the right way and also training on the production also training on the production also training on the production and use of bio-inputs that can and use of bio-inputs that can and use of bio-inputs that can be self-produced. So we carried out be self-produced. So we carried out be self-produced. So we carried out training in farmer environments training in farmer environments training in farmer environments on technical aspects, video on technical aspects, video on technical aspects, video capsules in local language. capsules in local language. capsules in local language. So to come back a bit to our So to come back a bit to our So to come back a bit to our presentation now uh as you presentation now uh as you presentation now uh as you know in Benin and also in know in Benin and also in know in Benin and also in sub-Saharan Africa, the yields and sub-Saharan Africa, the yields and sub-Saharan Africa, the yields and quality of market garden quality of market garden quality of market garden production are well below the production are well below the production are well below the potential. potential. potential. Uh so this can be explained by Uh so this can be explained by Uh so this can be explained by various difficulties in terms of various difficulties in terms of various difficulties in terms of soil fertility, weather soil fertility, weather soil fertility, weather conditions, agronomic conditions, agronomic conditions, agronomic practices and strong pest practices and strong pest practices and strong pest and disease pressure especially in and disease pressure especially in and disease pressure especially in this tropical context with high this tropical context with high this tropical context with high heat and significant humidity. heat and significant humidity. heat and significant humidity. And so phytoparasitic nematodes And so phytoparasitic nematodes And so phytoparasitic nematodes are one of the major problems are one of the major problems are one of the major problems faced by market gardening faced by market gardening faced by market gardening producers. producers. producers. So here on the right, we have the So here on the right, we have the So here on the right, we have the famous nematode galls we famous nematode galls we famous nematode galls we talked about Romuald earlier. Uh talked about Romuald earlier. Uh talked about Romuald earlier. Uh which impacts production uh and which impacts production uh and which impacts production uh and obviously quality obviously quality obviously quality of crops. of crops. of crops. So uh the nematode affects different So uh the nematode affects different So uh the nematode affects different families of market gardening families of market gardening families of market gardening crops. Uh so crops. Uh so crops. Uh so it is a pest that is quite it is a pest that is quite it is a pest that is quite versatile. Uh so it disturbs the versatile. Uh so it disturbs the versatile. Uh so it disturbs the root system by entering root system by entering root system by entering it because its development cycle it because its development cycle it because its development cycle requires uh requires uh requires uh certain tall plants and this will certain tall plants and this will certain tall plants and this will reduce the absorption of reduce the absorption of reduce the absorption of nutrients and water and so it nutrients and water and so it nutrients and water and so it causes growth delay, wilting, a causes growth delay, wilting, a causes growth delay, wilting, a significant yield decrease and a significant yield decrease and a significant yield decrease and a decrease in crop quality. decrease in crop quality. decrease in crop quality. that within the Savage project, we that within the Savage project, we that within the Savage project, we were also able to conduct a study uh on were also able to conduct a study uh on were also able to conduct a study uh on uh these phytoparasitic nematodes uh uh these phytoparasitic nematodes uh uh these phytoparasitic nematodes uh in the south, center and in the in the south, center and in the in the south, center and in the north of Benin. And uh north of Benin. And uh north of Benin. And uh the most widespread genus of phytoparasitic the most widespread genus of phytoparasitic the most widespread genus of phytoparasitic nematode is Meloidogyne nematode is Meloidogyne nematode is Meloidogyne uh which was represented at 80% uh which was represented at 80% uh which was represented at 80% of all samples collected. of all samples collected. of all samples collected. Uh in terms of tall plants, we Uh in terms of tall plants, we Uh in terms of tall plants, we realized that it was on chili realized that it was on chili realized that it was on chili pepper that it was most present. Uh so pepper that it was most present. Uh so pepper that it was most present. Uh with maximum densities reaching with maximum densities reaching with maximum densities reaching 200 to 2150 200 to 2150 200 to 2150 per gram of root. Uh so here we see per gram of root. Uh so here we see per gram of root. Uh so here we see that it affects both the that it affects both the that it affects both the solanaceae, it can also affect uh solanaceae, it can also affect uh solanaceae, it can also affect uh other other crop families. other other crop families. other other crop families. So it is not specific to a single So it is not specific to a single So it is not specific to a single family. So nematodes look like family. So nematodes look like family. So nematodes look like this. So very small not visible this. So very small not visible this. So very small not visible to the naked eye. to the naked eye. to the naked eye. And so faced with these And so faced with these And so faced with these problems, producers use a certain problems, producers use a certain problems, producers use a certain number of chemical inputs, pesticides number of chemical inputs, pesticides number of chemical inputs, pesticides uh which are not necessarily uh which are not necessarily uh which are not necessarily adapted. As we can see here uh through adapted. As we can see here uh through adapted. As we can see here uh through this graph. Uh among the 379 this graph. Uh among the 379 this graph. Uh among the 379 surveyed producers, only 52% surveyed producers, only 52% surveyed producers, only 52% use nematicides to uh use nematicides to uh use nematicides to uh combat soil nematodes. combat soil nematodes. combat soil nematodes. Others use insecticides, others use insecticides, others use insecticides, fungicides and acaricides. So we see fungicides and acaricides. So we see fungicides and acaricides. So we see clearly a problem in terms of clearly a problem in terms of clearly a problem in terms of pesticide use. And pesticide use. And pesticide use. And among these nematicides, among these nematicides, among these nematicides, we find nemacur in we find nemacur in we find nemacur in majority but also use majority but also use majority but also use carbofuran, so furadan carbofuran, so furadan carbofuran, so furadan which is a banned product, which is a banned product, which is a banned product, highly dangerous according to WHO due highly dangerous according to WHO due highly dangerous according to WHO due to its toxicity to human health and to its toxicity to human health and to its toxicity to human health and to the environment. to the environment. to the environment. And also And also And also to add that none of these to add that none of these to add that none of these uh products are registered in Benin or in uh products are registered in Benin or in uh products are registered in Benin or in West Africa. So we clearly see West Africa. So we clearly see West Africa. So we clearly see the abusive or unreasoned use the abusive or unreasoned use the abusive or unreasoned use of these pesticides without real of these pesticides without real of these pesticides without real effectiveness on the ground because effectiveness on the ground because effectiveness on the ground because nematodes develop resistance nematodes develop resistance nematodes develop resistance to these inputs. So to these inputs. So to these inputs. So the idea of this trial in farmer the idea of this trial in farmer the idea of this trial in farmer environment was to evaluate agroecological environment was to evaluate agroecological environment was to evaluate agroecological alternatives for the management of alternatives for the management of alternatives for the management of nematode galls on chili pepper. nematode galls on chili pepper. nematode galls on chili pepper. So these are the innovations tested. So these are the innovations tested. So these are the innovations tested. As I said earlier, it was As I said earlier, it was As I said earlier, it was selected through a participatory selected through a participatory selected through a participatory approach involving producers approach involving producers approach involving producers in the reflections. in the reflections. in the reflections. And so the idea was both And so the idea was both And so the idea was both to bring innovations from research to bring innovations from research to bring innovations from research and endogenous innovations. and endogenous innovations. and endogenous innovations. So in red are the research So in red are the research So in red are the research innovations. So the first is innovations. So the first is innovations. So the first is the use of crotalaria the use of crotalaria the use of crotalaria which is a legume which is also a which is a legume which is also a which is a legume which is also a nitrogen-fixing plant nitrogen-fixing plant nitrogen-fixing plant known to produce bioactive known to produce bioactive known to produce bioactive compounds which have nematicidal compounds which have nematicidal compounds which have nematicidal activity. activity. activity. Uh ossimum gratissimum which is Uh ossimum gratissimum which is Uh ossimum gratissimum which is the chayo or African basil the chayo or African basil the chayo or African basil which unlike crotalaria which unlike crotalaria which unlike crotalaria which is not a commercial is not a commercial is not a commercial plant, the the the African basil plant, the the the African basil plant, the African basil is consumed in Benin. African basil is consumed in Benin. African basil is consumed in Benin. So it is a marketable plant. So it is a marketable plant. So it is a marketable plant. Uh it is integrated into crop rotations Uh it is integrated into crop rotations Uh it is integrated into crop rotations by producers to reduce by producers to reduce by producers to reduce precisely nematode pressure. precisely nematode pressure. precisely nematode pressure. So these are elements that were So these are elements that were So these are elements that were identified in the diagnosis. identified in the diagnosis. identified in the diagnosis. Uh Uh Uh and uh it is a plant recognized and uh it is a plant recognized and uh it is a plant recognized for its bioactive compounds and for its bioactive compounds and for its bioactive compounds and endowed with repellent endowed with repellent endowed with repellent properties, but it is not properties, but it is not properties, but it is not really known if there is an effect really known if there is an effect really known if there is an effect on nematodes to calm on nematodes to calm on nematodes to calm lesions. lesions. lesions. Uh the third innovation tested, Uh the third innovation tested, Uh the third innovation tested, are beneficial indigenous are beneficial indigenous are beneficial indigenous microorganisms. microorganisms. microorganisms. So it is uh so it is a so it is uh so it is a product from the fermentation product from the fermentation product from the fermentation of forest litter, milk, carbon source of forest litter, milk, carbon source of forest litter, milk, carbon source which can be rice bran or which can be rice bran or which can be rice bran or wood chips uh or wood chips uh or wood chips uh or wood chips. water, sugar or molasses water, sugar or molasses water, sugar or molasses are added and there are two are added and there are two are added and there are two aerobic and anaerobic aerobic and anaerobic aerobic and anaerobic fermentations to obtain these fermentations to obtain these fermentations to obtain these famous MABS. So uh famous MABS. So uh famous MABS. So uh they enrich the they enrich the they enrich the local microbial communities in local microbial communities in local microbial communities in lactobacilli, acobacteria and and many lactobacilli, acobacteria and and many lactobacilli, acobacteria and and many others. So it is a cocktail of others. So it is a cocktail of others. So it is a cocktail of microorganisms applied microorganisms applied microorganisms applied directly to the soil. So this directly to the soil. So this directly to the soil. So this strengthens soil health, resilience strengthens soil health, resilience strengthens soil health, resilience and can also play a role in and can also play a role in and can also play a role in biological control of some pests biological control of some pests biological control of some pests and pathogens. So here, we tested and pathogens. So here, we tested and pathogens. So here, we tested if there were effects on if there were effects on if there were effects on nematode galls. Uh 4th innovation nematode galls. Uh 4th innovation nematode galls. Uh 4th innovation tested are fermented fruit tested are fermented fruit tested are fermented fruit solutions. So this is a solutions. So this is a solutions. So this is a truly endogenous innovation truly endogenous innovation truly endogenous innovation little known to research. So in little known to research. So in little known to research. So in fact in northern Benin, we found fact in northern Benin, we found fact in northern Benin, we found that a number of producers that a number of producers that a number of producers make biostimulants make biostimulants make biostimulants based on orange juice, based on orange juice, based on orange juice, pineapple juice and coconut water pineapple juice and coconut water pineapple juice and coconut water and sugar that ferment and and sugar that ferment and and sugar that ferment and are applied to stimulate are applied to stimulate are applied to stimulate plant growth, mitigate plant growth, mitigate plant growth, mitigate also the effects of disease especially also the effects of disease especially also the effects of disease especially in the coastal strip of Benin. in the coastal strip of Benin. in the coastal strip of Benin. So we also think that these So we also think that these So we also think that these biostimulants can contribute and biostimulants can contribute and biostimulants can contribute and enrich local microbial enrich local microbial enrich local microbial communities. communities. communities. Uh so the setup was like this. Uh so the setup was like this. Uh so the setup was like this. So there were two cropping So there were two cropping So there were two cropping cycles established. Uh so on the cycles established. Uh so on the cycles established. Uh so on the left, we have the left, we have the left, we have the cycle 1 with the different cycle 1 with the different cycle 1 with the different modalities uh and the control. modalities uh and the control. modalities uh and the control. Uh so we had four Uh so we had four Uh so we had four replications on each site. Uh and in replications on each site. Uh and in replications on each site. Uh and cycle 2, we established chili cycle 2, we established chili cycle 2, we established chili everywhere. everywhere. everywhere. Uh so five modalities and it was Uh so five modalities and it was Uh so five modalities and it was repeated with five different repeated with five different repeated with five different producers in three locations producers in three locations producers in three locations in southern Benin on the sandy in southern Benin on the sandy in southern Benin on the sandy belt at Hida, POJI and belt at Hida, POJI and belt at Hida, POJI and then Grand Popo. then Grand Popo. then Grand Popo. So at the bottom left, we see the So at the bottom left, we see the So at the bottom left, we see the setup with the famous crotalaria setup with the famous crotalaria setup with the famous crotalaria and other modalities next to it. and other modalities next to it. and other modalities next to it. Uh, we carried out soil Uh, we carried out soil Uh, we carried out soil and root sampling to assess and root sampling to assess and root sampling to assess nematode density at nematode density at nematode density at cycle 1 and cycle 2. So at cycle 1 and cycle 2. So at cycle 1 and cycle 2. So at P0 beginning of cycle 1 P1 end of cycle 1, P2 beginning of cycle 1 P1 end of cycle 1, P2 beginning of cycle 1 P1 end of cycle 1, P2 beginning of cycle 2 and P3 end of cycle 2. Uh so these collections, cycle 2. Uh so these collections, cycle 2. Uh so these collections, counts, identification, were counts, identification, were counts, identification, were carried out by our partner FSA. carried out by our partner FSA. carried out by our partner FSA. from Abomey-Calavi University and from Abomey-Calavi University and from Abomey-Calavi University and the nematology laboratory of Dr. the nematology laboratory of Dr. the nematology laboratory of Dr. Faucon whom I greet here. Faucon whom I greet here. Faucon whom I greet here. Uh and so as a result, I will not Uh and so as a result, I will not Uh and so as a result, I will not present everything but some. Uh present everything but some. Uh present everything but some. Uh so here we have two graphs that so here we have two graphs that so here we have two graphs that show the dynamics of nematode show the dynamics of nematode show the dynamics of nematode populations of gall nematodes populations of gall nematodes populations of gall nematodes at different at different at different cycles. at cycle 1, in light cycles. at cycle 1, in light cycles. at cycle 1, in light color, it is at the beginning color, it is at the beginning color, it is at the beginning of cycle 1 and in dark of cycle 1 and in dark of cycle 1 and in dark color at the end of cycle 1. Uh color at the end of cycle 1. Uh color at the end of cycle 1. Uh so, we observe a significant so, we observe a significant so, we observe a significant increase for all treatments increase for all treatments increase for all treatments in nematode gall density in in nematode gall density in in nematode gall density in the soil, except for treatment T1 the soil, except for treatment T1 the soil, except for treatment T1 which is the treatment uh which is the treatment uh which is the treatment uh with crotalaria. with crotalaria. with crotalaria. Uh so we see that there is a Uh so we see that there is a Uh so we see that there is a suppressive effect uh of crotalaria suppressive effect uh of crotalaria suppressive effect uh of crotalaria on nematode gall density. On cycle 2, we observe on nematode gall density. On cycle 2, we observe on nematode gall density. On cycle 2, we observe however an increase uh in however an increase uh in however an increase uh in nematode densities uh in nematode densities uh in nematode densities uh in all treatments, even on all treatments, even on all treatments, even on T1. T1. T1. HH HH HH sorry. sorry. sorry. Here, we have another graph uh which Here, we have another graph uh which Here, we have another graph uh which shows that compares nematode shows that compares nematode shows that compares nematode gall densities between different gall densities between different gall densities between different treatments at different times. So treatments at different times. So treatments at different times. So on the left, we have nematode on the left, we have nematode on the left, we have nematode densities uh at the beginning of densities uh at the beginning of densities uh at the beginning of cycle 1. So, cycle 1. So, cycle 1. So, we observe no significant we observe no significant we observe no significant difference in density, which difference in density, which difference in density, which is quite normal before is quite normal before is quite normal before application of practices and application of practices and application of practices and innovations. innovations. innovations. At T1 sorry at the end of cycle 1, At T1 sorry at the end of cycle 1, At T1 sorry at the end of cycle 1, we observe that T1 has the lowest we observe that T1 has the lowest we observe that T1 has the lowest nematode density followed by T2. nematode density followed by T2. nematode density followed by T2. So T1 was the use of crotalaria, So T1 was the use of crotalaria, So T1 was the use of crotalaria, T2 was the use of crotalaria, T2 was the use of crotalaria, T2 was the use of crotalaria, T2 the use of African basil T2 the use of African basil T2 the use of African basil also even big man. also even big man. also even big man. Uh then we have the use of Uh then we have the use of Uh then we have the use of microorganisms uh liquid biostimulants microorganisms uh liquid biostimulants microorganisms uh liquid biostimulants for T3 and T4. And finally for for T3 and T4. And finally for for T3 and T4. And finally for t0, we have the highest t0, we have the highest t0, we have the highest nematode density. nematode density. nematode density. Uh Uh Uh so the graph on the right is at so the graph on the right is at so the graph on the right is at the end of cycle 2. So here the end of cycle 2. So here the end of cycle 2. So here paradoxically we observe that paradoxically we observe that paradoxically we observe that the T0 plot has a nematode the T0 plot has a nematode the T0 plot has a nematode density significantly density significantly density significantly different from the other different from the other different from the other treatments. Quite surprising. treatments. Quite surprising. treatments. Quite surprising. So we clearly see So we clearly see So we clearly see that crotalaria, crotalaria has a that crotalaria, crotalaria has a that crotalaria, crotalaria has a suppressive effect on nematodes suppressive effect on nematodes suppressive effect on nematodes but it decreases over time. This but it decreases over time. This but it decreases over time. This is what other researchers have is what other researchers have is what other researchers have is highlighted, that about 70 highlighted, that about 70 highlighted, that about 70 days after incorporation of crotalaria days after incorporation of crotalaria days after incorporation of crotalaria into the soil, nematode densities into the soil, nematode densities into the soil, nematode densities return to normal. return to normal. return to normal. That’s it. That’s it. That’s it. Uh and also to specify uh so the Uh and also to specify uh so the Uh and also to specify uh so the life cycle of Meloidogyne at 30°, life cycle of Meloidogyne at 30°, life cycle of Meloidogyne at 30°, is between 15 and 20 days to show is between 15 and 20 days to show is between 15 and 20 days to show you a bit the speed of the you a bit the speed of the you a bit the speed of the cycles and that a female can produce cycles and that a female can produce cycles and that a female can produce up to 140 nematodes up to 140 nematodes up to 140 nematodes at the second juvenile stage in at the second juvenile stage in at the second juvenile stage in just one week. So we see a just one week. So we see a just one week. So we see a bit of the explosion bit of the explosion bit of the explosion in terms of nematode in terms of nematode in terms of nematode population that can come in a few population that can come in a few population that can come in a few days only. We also days only. We also days only. We also looked at chili pepper yields. looked at chili pepper yields. looked at chili pepper yields. So here we have the So here we have the So here we have the graph showing chili graph showing chili graph showing chili pepper yields for Grand Popoida pepper yields for Grand Popoida pepper yields for Grand Popoida and Semici. and Semici. and Semici. So it is in grams per meter So it is in grams per meter So it is in grams per meter square. square. square. Uh so we have quite Uh so we have quite Uh so we have quite limited results, limited improvement limited results, limited improvement limited results, limited improvement of practices. Uh no significant of practices. Uh no significant of practices. Uh no significant difference for Grand Popo and we difference for Grand Popo and we difference for Grand Popo and we still observe some higher yields still observe some higher yields still observe some higher yields compared to controls for Grand Popo compared to controls for Grand Popo compared to controls for Grand Popo for Wida also with the for Wida also with the for Wida also with the crotalaria, we observe one of crotalaria, we observe one of crotalaria, we observe one of the best yields but it is not the best yields but it is not the best yields but it is not significantly different only significantly different only significantly different only at its we observe a significant at its we observe a significant at its we observe a significant yield difference. yield difference. yield difference. So we can say that this is a So we can say that this is a So we can say that this is a somewhat limited improvement somewhat limited improvement somewhat limited improvement despite expectations despite expectations despite expectations on the nematicidal and on the nematicidal and on the nematicidal and fertilizing effect of crotalaria. fertilizing effect of crotalaria. fertilizing effect of crotalaria. Uh Uh Uh so there are three factors so there are three factors so there are three factors that can explain this. Uh that can explain this. Uh that can explain this. Uh so as I said earlier, so as I said earlier, so as I said earlier, a very fast life cycle of a very fast life cycle of a very fast life cycle of nematodes. nematodes. nematodes. Uh there may also be a nutritive Uh there may also be a nutritive Uh there may also be a nutritive asynchrony. So in fact the residues asynchrony. So in fact the residues asynchrony. So in fact the residues of crotalaria will release nitrogen but of crotalaria will release nitrogen but of crotalaria will release nitrogen but this release is delayed relative this release is delayed relative this release is delayed relative to the peak demand of chili to the peak demand of chili to the peak demand of chili pepper which is roughly pepper which is roughly pepper which is roughly at flowering, about 9 at flowering, about 9 at flowering, about 9 weeks after incorporation. weeks after incorporation. weeks after incorporation. And there could also potentially And there could also potentially And there could also potentially be an allelopathic effect of be an allelopathic effect of be an allelopathic effect of crotalaria. As I said earlier, crotalaria. As I said earlier, crotalaria. As I said earlier, it produces natural it produces natural it produces natural compounds through its roots compounds through its roots compounds through its roots which may be nematicidal but which may be nematicidal but which may be nematicidal but may also limit the growth may also limit the growth may also limit the growth of peppers and thus cancel out of peppers and thus cancel out of peppers and thus cancel out the benefits on the the suppression the benefits on the the suppression the benefits on the the suppression of nematodes and on soil of nematodes and on soil of nematodes and on soil enrichment. Nevertheless, it is the enrichment. Nevertheless, it is the enrichment. Nevertheless, it is the trial in farmer trial in farmer trial in farmer environments showed several environments showed several environments showed several things. So it allowed producers things. So it allowed producers things. So it allowed producers to have a visual comparison to have a visual comparison to have a visual comparison of these practices. Uh so we observed a reduction of nematode galls of nematode galls of nematode galls in soils uh a reduction of in soils uh a reduction of in soils uh a reduction of symptoms of Ralstonia so bacterial symptoms of Ralstonia so bacterial symptoms of Ralstonia so bacterial wilt shown here at the top right wilt shown here at the top right wilt shown here at the top right in the concé. We tried to understand in the concé. We tried to understand in the concé. We tried to understand if it was really the if it was really the if it was really the nematode causing this. So nematode causing this. So nematode causing this. So it was indeed the Ralstonia wilt it was indeed the Ralstonia wilt it was indeed the Ralstonia wilt present in the plant. Our present in the plant. Our present in the plant. Our hypothesis also is that hypothesis also is that hypothesis also is that nematodes also open roots nematodes also open roots nematodes also open roots so they penetrate roots so they penetrate roots so they penetrate roots and create an opening and create an opening and create an opening that facilitates the bacteria that facilitates the bacteria that facilitates the bacteria Ralstonia and so it can enter Ralstonia and so it can enter Ralstonia and so it can enter the roots more easily and thus the roots more easily and thus the roots more easily and thus reach the plant. reach the plant. reach the plant. We observed better We observed better We observed better vigor of chili peppers. It was vigor of chili peppers. It was vigor of chili peppers. It was a trend, it was not necessarily a trend, it was not necessarily a trend, it was not necessarily the case everywhere. So here the case everywhere. So here the case everywhere. So here at the bottom left, we see at the bottom left, we see at the bottom left, we see chili peppers that benefited chili peppers that benefited chili peppers that benefited from the previous crotalaria and from the previous crotalaria and from the previous crotalaria and on the right the previous control on the right the previous control on the right the previous control plot. plot. plot. Uh so leaving allowed producers Uh so leaving allowed producers Uh so leaving allowed producers to learn by doing so it is to learn by doing so it is to learn by doing so it is testing new testing new testing new practices uh practices uh practices uh but well, did these but well, did these but well, did these practices really get adopted practices really get adopted practices really get adopted later by producers as later by producers as later by producers as explained finally later by producers as explained finally later by producers as explained finally uh first I will present the uh first I will present the uh first I will present the first part. So we saw, first part. So we saw, first part. So we saw, the use of crotalaria is the use of crotalaria is the use of crotalaria is effective but only a few effective but only a few effective but only a few weeks after incorporation weeks after incorporation weeks after incorporation of the residue. So limited of the residue. So limited of the residue. So limited effectiveness over time, even if it is effectiveness over time, even if it is effectiveness over time, even if it is well proven scientifically well proven scientifically well proven scientifically that it is effective. Uh as Romuald said, that it is effective. Uh as Romuald said, that it is effective. Uh as Romuald said, non-marketable crops non-marketable crops non-marketable crops are difficult to implement are difficult to implement are difficult to implement in a market gardening in urban in a market gardening in urban in a market gardening in urban or peri-urban area because in fact or peri-urban area because in fact or peri-urban area because in fact we are on very limited spaces uh we are on very limited spaces uh we are on very limited spaces uh where producers usually where producers usually where producers usually grow high-value grow high-value grow high-value crops where economically you have crops where economically you have crops where economically you have to make a living, there is the cost to make a living, there is the cost to make a living, there is the cost of renting the cost of renting the cost of renting the land of the plot. So well, land of the plot. So well, land of the plot. So well, difficult to do a GHR for several difficult to do a GHR for several difficult to do a GHR for several months without having income months without having income months without having income directly. And in terms of limits, we directly. And in terms of limits, we directly. And in terms of limits, we saw that there was a low saw that there was a low saw that there was a low perception of the fertilizing perception of the fertilizing perception of the fertilizing effect of crotalaria. effect of crotalaria. effect of crotalaria. So adoption was difficult So adoption was difficult So adoption was difficult obviously. Uh and so following that, we obviously. Uh and so following that, we obviously. Uh and so following that, we held a small workshop between held a small workshop between held a small workshop between the pilot producers who set up the the pilot producers who set up the the pilot producers who set up the trials to understand the trials to understand the trials to understand the limits and maybe find the limits and maybe find the limits and maybe find alternatives and how to adapt alternatives and how to adapt alternatives and how to adapt this plant in their cropping this plant in their cropping this plant in their cropping system that can respond to their system that can respond to their system that can respond to their problems, their constraints and problems, their constraints and problems, their constraints and that uh well that that uh well that that uh well that that can directly benefit the producer. can directly benefit the producer. can directly benefit the producer. So the idea was to So the idea was to So the idea was to directly associate directly associate directly associate crotalarias with crotalarias with crotalarias with market gardening crops, often the market gardening crops, often the market gardening crops, often the most infested with nematode galls. most infested with nematode galls. most infested with nematode galls. So here we have on different So here we have on different So here we have on different sites some images. So here we have the sites some images. So here we have the sites some images. So here we have the crotalaria associated crotalaria associated crotalaria associated with boma. Oboma who films with boma. Oboma who films with boma. Oboma who films an African eggplant whose leaves an African eggplant whose leaves an African eggplant whose leaves are consumed. are consumed. are consumed. [growl] Uh here we have the association [growl] Uh here we have the association [growl] Uh here we have the association Crotalaria Chili. Crotalaria Chili. Crotalaria Chili. So here we are at Wikodi in Hida. So here we are at Wikodi in Hida. So here we are at Wikodi in Hida. So the producer So the producer So the producer was initially afraid of competition was initially afraid of competition was initially afraid of competition between the different crops and between the different crops and between the different crops and finally he realized that finally he realized that finally he realized that the biomass of chili peppers was the biomass of chili peppers was the biomass of chili peppers was much more developed when much more developed when much more developed when associated with crotalaria compared associated with crotalaria compared associated with crotalaria compared to plots where to plots where to plots where he had pure chili pepper he had pure chili pepper he had pure chili pepper crops. Uh he was able to reduce also crops. Uh he was able to reduce also crops. Uh he was able to reduce also his watering uh because here we see his watering uh because here we see his watering uh because here we see a bit, there is a crotalaria mulch a bit, there is a crotalaria mulch a bit, there is a crotalaria mulch regularly applied. So when the regularly applied. So when the regularly applied. So when crotalaria takes up too much space, crotalaria takes up too much space, crotalaria takes up too much space, hop, it is removed. and it is introduced hop, it is removed. and it is introduced hop, it is removed. and it is introduced at the foot of the plants. at the foot of the plants. at the foot of the plants. So less watering, uh less So less watering, uh less So less watering, uh less addition also of mineral fertilizers addition also of mineral fertilizers addition also of mineral fertilizers uh and uh so there is less uh and uh so there is less uh and uh so there is less leaching as well leaching as well leaching as well and I think crotalaria also and I think crotalaria also and I think crotalaria also provides some shading for some provides some shading for some provides some shading for some crops and this is not necessarily crops and this is not necessarily crops and this is not necessarily a bad thing in a tropical a bad thing in a tropical a bad thing in a tropical climate. climate. climate. So on the right, we have the So on the right, we have the So on the right, we have the association with So on the right, we have the association with So on the right, we have the association with maranta and crotalaria. maranta and crotalaria. maranta and crotalaria. More surprisingly the peanut More surprisingly the peanut More surprisingly the peanut crotalaria association at a crotalaria association at a crotalaria association at a producer, which is quite producer, which is quite producer, which is quite atypical because we are on atypical because we are on atypical because we are on two legumes. two legumes. two legumes. Uh onion associated with Uh onion associated with Uh onion associated with crotalaria, so here we have crotalaria, so here we have crotalaria, so here we have Simicoji. Simicoji. Simicoji. Other producers uh rather Other producers uh rather Other producers uh rather put crotalaria on the put crotalaria on the put crotalaria on the edges of the plots edges of the plots edges of the plots uh and bring the residues, the uh and bring the residues, the uh and bring the residues, the mulch of these crotalarias mulch of these crotalarias mulch of these crotalarias directly into the crops, so as directly into the crops, so as directly into the crops, so as mulch to both limit mulch to both limit mulch to both limit weeds, limit watering weeds, limit watering weeds, limit watering and to more easily multiply and to more easily multiply and to more easily multiply seeds because when seeds because when seeds because when you introduce it you introduce it you introduce it directly into the crops directly into the crops directly into the crops Uh it is necessary that the it is necessary that the it is necessary that the crotalaria completes its crotalaria completes its crotalaria completes its full cycle so more than 3 full cycle so more than 3 full cycle so more than 3 full cycle months and when associated with months and when associated with months and when associated with short cycle crops, it can be short cycle crops, it can be short cycle crops, it can be a bit more complicated but a bit more complicated but a bit more complicated but it is not impossible. it is not impossible. it is not impossible. Uh so here, we were able to Uh so here, we were able to Uh so here, we were able to observe or observe or observe or producers, we can observe a producers, we can observe a producers, we can observe a greater biodiversity when greater biodiversity when greater biodiversity when crops were associated crops were associated crops were associated with each other with predatory with each other with predatory with each other with predatory insects such as coccinellids. insects such as coccinellids. insects such as coccinellids. We also saw macrolus We also saw macrolus We also saw macrolus coccinellids on several coccinellids on several coccinellids on several crotalaria plants. So uh on crotalaria plants. So uh on crotalaria plants. So these are insects, small these are insects, small these are insects, small bugs that consume both bugs that consume both bugs that consume both whiteflies, I believe whiteflies, I believe whiteflies, I believe it was eggs of Toutar uh it was eggs of Toutar uh it was eggs of Toutar uh and uh red spider mites of and uh red spider mites of and uh red spider mites of tomato, tetramitus. also tomato, tetramitus. also tomato, tetramitus. also many more pollinating many more pollinating many more pollinating insects as it is a melliferous insects as it is a melliferous insects as it is a melliferous plant, there are many bees plant, there are many bees plant, there are many bees and bumblebees that come and and bumblebees that come and and bumblebees that come and collect and at the same time collect and at the same time collect and at the same time pollinate the surrounding pollinate the surrounding pollinate the surrounding crops. crops. crops. Uh so here, we clearly see a Uh so here, we clearly see a Uh so here, we clearly see a plant cover due to the plant cover due to the plant cover due to the fallen leaves on the fallen leaves on the fallen leaves on the soil. we have soil. we have soil. we have insects that will insects that will insects that will degrade this degrade this degrade this organic matter. organic matter. organic matter. Uh so here, we have an Uh so here, we have an Uh so here, we have an association between association between association between chili pepper and crotalaria. chili pepper and crotalaria. chili pepper and crotalaria. Uh we also clearly observe the Uh we also clearly observe the Uh we also clearly observe the famous nodules uh of crotalaria. famous nodules uh of crotalaria. famous nodules uh of crotalaria. So obviously some producers So obviously some producers So obviously some producers were initially afraid. At first, they were initially afraid. At first, they were initially afraid. At first, they thought these At first, they thought these At first, they thought these were nematode galls and so were nematode galls and so were nematode galls and so they say "Ah but believe it or they say "Ah but believe it or they say "Ah but believe it or not." So it is important to not." So it is important to not." So it is important to explain what explain what explain what these nodules really are. these nodules really are. these nodules really are. So these are bacteria that fix So these are bacteria that fix So these are bacteria that fix to the roots of legumes and to the roots of legumes and to the roots of legumes and will fix nitrogen from the air will fix nitrogen from the air will fix nitrogen from the air into the soil and thus make into the soil and thus make into the soil and thus make it available to crops. When it is associated it available to crops. When it is associated it available to crops. When it is associated to market gardening crops, it is to market gardening crops, it is to market gardening crops, it is directly uh well uh sent. directly uh well uh sent. directly uh well uh sent. Uh there are uh Uh there are uh Uh there are uh still some difficulties and still some difficulties and still some difficulties and key points to consider in key points to consider in key points to consider in terms of density. So here, we are at SPJ terms of density. So here, we are at SPJ terms of density. So here, we are at SPJ still. still. still. We have a producer who We have a producer who We have a producer who associated crotalaria with his associated crotalaria with his associated crotalaria with his chili pepper. So here, we do not chili pepper. So here, we do not chili pepper. So here, we do not see the chili pepper because see the chili pepper because see the chili pepper because crotalaria took over. So crotalaria took over. So crotalaria took over. So here, obviously the yields here, obviously the yields here, obviously the yields were very poor. So there were were very poor. So there were were very poor. So there are spacings to be spacings to be spacings to be respected. respected. respected. Uh there is also a planting of Uh there is also a planting of Uh there is also a planting of crotalaria to be respected. On crotalaria to be respected. On crotalaria to be respected. On the right, we have the carrot the right, we have the carrot the right, we have the carrot associated with crotalaria where associated with crotalaria where associated with crotalaria where crotalaria was sown at the crotalaria was sown at the crotalaria was sown at the same time as the carrot. Whereas same time as the carrot. Whereas same time as the carrot. Whereas it is better to wait 3 to 4 it is better to wait 3 to 4 it is better to wait 3 to 4 weeks for the carrot to weeks for the carrot to weeks for the carrot to germinate, grow and then germinate, grow and then germinate, grow and then associate crotalaria. associate crotalaria. associate crotalaria. So well, it does not always So well, it does not always So well, it does not always work the first time, but uh work the first time, but uh work the first time, but uh when it works uh the results when it works uh the results when it works uh the results are quite noticeable. are quite noticeable. are quite noticeable. Uh and there is also a difficulty Uh and there is also a difficulty Uh and there is also a difficulty in managing seed stocks. in managing seed stocks. in managing seed stocks. As I said earlier, you can As I said earlier, you can As I said earlier, you can associate it with crops, but if associate it with crops, but if associate it with crops, but if you pull it out before it reaches you pull it out before it reaches you pull it out before it reaches its seed multiplication cycle, its seed multiplication cycle, its seed multiplication cycle, you can quickly run out of you can quickly run out of you can quickly run out of seed. So it is important to seed. So it is important to seed. So it is important to associate it with long associate it with long associate it with long cycle crops in some places or cycle crops in some places or cycle crops in some places or put it on the edges to put it on the edges to put it on the edges to maintain its nodules. maintain its nodules. maintain its nodules. Uh so here, we have some Uh so here, we have some Uh so here, we have some visual results from a producer in visual results from a producer in visual results from a producer in Aida who associated so put his Aida who associated so put his Aida who associated so put his carrot in pure carrot in pure carrot in pure culture, applied his fertilization culture, applied his fertilization culture, applied his fertilization as mineral fertilizer as mineral fertilizer as mineral fertilizer and poultry manure. So we and poultry manure. So we and poultry manure. So we clearly observe the clearly observe the clearly observe the famous nematode galls famous nematode galls famous nematode galls and on the right we have the carrot and on the right we have the carrot and on the right we have the carrot associated with crotalaria and also associated with crotalaria and also associated with crotalaria and also fertilized with bokashi. fertilized with bokashi. fertilized with bokashi. So boka is a balanced So boka is a balanced So boka is a balanced organic fertilizer, quite rich and organic fertilizer, quite rich and organic fertilizer, quite rich and also enriched with microorganisms. also enriched with microorganisms. also enriched with microorganisms. So in its production, yeast So in its production, yeast So in its production, yeast are added. are added. are added. Unfortunately, we could not Unfortunately, we could not Unfortunately, we could not finally the producer did not finally the producer did not finally the producer did not weigh to compare weigh to compare weigh to compare yields, but at least in yields, but at least in yields, but at least in terms of sales quality, he was able terms of sales quality, he was able terms of sales quality, he was able to sell at a better price obviously to sell at a better price obviously to sell at a better price obviously his beautiful carrots, even if his beautiful carrots, even if his beautiful carrots, even if there are still some nematode galls there are still some nematode galls there are still some nematode galls but much less than on the but much less than on the but much less than on the control plot. control plot. control plot. Uh Uh Uh and uh here we are at Sempoji. So and uh here we are at Sempoji. So and uh here we are at Sempoji. So it was last week uh a it was last week uh a it was last week uh a female producer sent me these female producer sent me these female producer sent me these images. images. images. She was able to weigh her She was able to weigh her She was able to weigh her carrots. So here we are on carrots. So here we are on carrots. So here we are on pure carrot fertilization, pure carrot fertilization, pure carrot fertilization, sorry, carrot in pure culture, sorry, carrot in pure culture, sorry, carrot in pure culture, mineral fertilization and mineral fertilization and mineral fertilization and poultry manure. And she was able poultry manure. And she was able poultry manure. And she was able to harvest about 2 kg per to harvest about 2 kg per to harvest about 2 kg per plot uh on these plots with plot uh on these plots with plot uh on these plots with agroecological practices agroecological practices agroecological practices associated, so crotalaria associated, so crotalaria associated, so crotalaria and use of organic fertilization. and use of organic fertilization. and use of organic fertilization. So here it was vermicompost. So here it was vermicompost. So here it was vermicompost. We were at yields four times We were at yields four times We were at yields four times higher higher higher uh uh uh and uh and uh and uh well, I I had something else well, I I had something else well, I I had something else to say but I forgot. to say but I forgot. to say but I forgot. Uh yes, so what I wanted to say Uh yes, so what I wanted to say Uh yes, so what I wanted to say also is so it is good to see also is so it is good to see also is so it is good to see yields, to see the quality yields, to see the quality yields, to see the quality of production, but now the work of production, but now the work of production, but now the work remaining to be done is to see remaining to be done is to see remaining to be done is to see economically by bringing in economically by bringing in economically by bringing in inputs what the producer inputs what the producer inputs what the producer gains gains gains because there is also a cost because there is also a cost because there is also a cost behind the purchase of these behind the purchase of these behind the purchase of these vermicomposts. Well, the advantage vermicomposts. Well, the advantage vermicomposts. Well, the advantage of crotalaria is that when of crotalaria is that when of crotalaria is that when you have the seed, you can multiply. you have the seed, you can multiply. you have the seed, you can multiply. So it is a crop that does not So it is a crop that does not So it is a crop that does not require financial require financial require financial investment. investment. investment. Uh but well, in any case these are Uh but well, in any case these are Uh but well, in any case these are studies that need to be studies that need to be studies that need to be continued. continued. continued. Uh but we have a real adoption Uh but we have a real adoption Uh but we have a real adoption by producers who see the interest by producers who see the interest by producers who see the interest of these agroecological of these agroecological of these agroecological practices. practices. practices. Just to conclude, uh Just to conclude, uh Just to conclude, uh I will present some I will present some I will present some obstacles to agroecological obstacles to agroecological obstacles to agroecological transition in Benin. So the first transition in Benin. So the first transition in Benin. So the first obstacle is the lack of obstacle is the lack of obstacle is the lack of agronomic knowledge. Uh so we have agronomic knowledge. Uh so we have agronomic knowledge. Uh so we have producers who are not producers who are not producers who are not necessarily trained, who learn necessarily trained, who learn necessarily trained, who learn on the job uh who think on the job uh who think on the job uh that insects on the job uh who think on the job uh that insects are bad. So it is necessary are bad. So it is necessary are bad. So it is necessary to destroy absolutely everything. to destroy absolutely everything. to destroy absolutely everything. We have a producer who We have a producer who We have a producer who removed all her crotalaria removed all her crotalaria removed all her crotalaria because she observed insects because she observed insects because she observed insects on it. So well, it is on it. So well, it is on it. So well, it is necessary to start over. uh so it is necessary to start over. uh so it is necessary to start over. uh so it is important to carry out uh so it is important to carry out uh so it is important to carry out training in farmer training in farmer training in farmer environments obviously in local environments obviously in local environments obviously in local language. uh language. uh language. uh first explain how to first explain how to first explain how to do chemical treatments do chemical treatments do chemical treatments correctly before moving correctly before moving correctly before moving on to more complicated on to more complicated on to more complicated things and obviously train things and obviously train things and obviously train them then on alternatives on them then on alternatives on them then on alternatives on the use of agroecological on the use of agroecological on the use of agroecological practices. practices. practices. Uh labor time and production Uh labor time and production Uh labor time and production costs can in some cases costs can in some cases costs can in some cases increase increase increase in the agroecological in the agroecological in the agroecological transition. time in the agroecological transition. time in the agroecological transition. For example, for those who want For example, for those who want For example, for those who want to make their own bio-inputs to make their own bio-inputs to make their own bio-inputs uh at the treatment level, we are uh at the treatment level, we are uh at the treatment level, we are on much lower residues on much lower residues on much lower residues compared to chemical compared to chemical compared to chemical pesticides. So it is also pesticides. So it is also pesticides. So it is also necessary when making necessary when making necessary when making these bio-inputs yourself to collect these bio-inputs yourself to collect these bio-inputs yourself to collect raw materials. So raw materials. So raw materials. So it takes some time. It takes some time. It takes some time. So as a lever, there is the famous So as a lever, there is the famous So as a lever, there is the famous small-scale mechanization for small-scale mechanization for small-scale mechanization for soil work but not only soil work but not only soil work but not only for the production of bio-inputs for the production of bio-inputs for the production of bio-inputs uh with uh grinders and others. uh with uh grinders and others. uh with uh grinders and others. uh that can be found in uh that can be found in uh that can be found in biofactory units. biofactory units. biofactory units. Uh at the level of production Uh at the level of production Uh at the level of production costs, there is a real costs, there is a real costs, there is a real need for producers to need for producers to need for producers to associate with each other for associate with each other for associate with each other for mutualized production of inputs mutualized production of inputs mutualized production of inputs and uh also interactions with and uh also interactions with and uh also interactions with actors, entrepreneurs who actors, entrepreneurs who actors, entrepreneurs who propose solutions but producers propose solutions but producers propose solutions but do not necessarily know do not necessarily know do not necessarily know the presence and effectiveness. the presence and effectiveness. the presence and effectiveness. One of the uh One of the uh One of the uh most important obstacles is most important obstacles is most important obstacles is border security. So producers border security. So producers border security. So producers have difficulty projecting have difficulty projecting have difficulty projecting themselves uh on their plot because themselves uh on their plot because themselves uh on their plot because the owner can from one day to the the owner can from one day to the the owner can from one day to the next recover their site. So next recover their site. So next recover their site. So investing investing investing in practices to increase in practices to increase in practices to increase organic matter in the soil. organic matter in the soil. organic matter in the soil. If the producer has to leave If the producer has to leave If the producer has to leave the following year, it is not the following year, it is not the following year, it is not interesting. It is a loss of interesting. It is a loss of interesting. It is a loss of money and and so it is a loss of money and and so it is a loss of money and and so it is quite complicated. So a real and so it is quite complicated. So a real and so it is quite complicated. So a real advocacy work to be done advocacy work to be done advocacy work to be done at the transition level. at the transition level. at the transition level. We have seen that when the We have seen that when the We have seen that when the innovation is applied alone, the innovation is applied alone, the innovation is applied alone, the effectiveness is limited. the effectiveness is limited. the effectiveness is limited. So substitution is not So substitution is not So substitution is not enough and it is important enough and it is important enough and it is important to take the to take the to take the time step by step and time step by step and time step by step and to combine as many agroecological to combine as many agroecological to combine as many agroecological practices as possible. We saw practices as possible. We saw practices as possible. We saw that the use of organic that the use of organic that the use of organic fertilizer with the use of crotalaria fertilizer with the use of crotalaria fertilizer with the use of crotalaria is what works best. is what works best. is what works best. Uh and one of the obstacles Uh and one of the obstacles Uh and one of the obstacles also is on the supply also is on the supply also is on the supply side. Uh there is a low side. Uh there is a low side. Uh there is a low demand on the local market or demand on the local market or demand on the local market or at least that is what producers at least that is what producers at least that is what producers perceive. Uh so it is necessary perceive. Uh so it is necessary perceive. Uh so it is necessary to raise awareness among to raise awareness among to raise awareness among consumers or to connect consumers or to connect consumers or to connect sensitized consumers to producers sensitized consumers to producers sensitized consumers to producers who have different who have different who have different practices, who offer practices, who offer practices, who offer quality products and uh hence quality products and uh hence quality products and uh the interest of participatory the interest of participatory the interest of participatory guarantee systems, SPG. So I I take guarantee systems, SPG. So I I take guarantee systems, SPG. So I I take the opportunity to make the transition to Edgar who will present a bit this uh this the opportunity to make the transition to Edgar who will present a bit this uh this the opportunity to make the transition to Edgar who will present a bit this uh this type of marketing label which is in favor type of marketing label which is in favor type of marketing label which is in favor of producers in agroecology. of producers in agroecology. of producers in agroecology. Well, I hope I was not too Well, I hope I was not too Well, I hope I was not too long. In any case, many thanks long. In any case, many thanks long. In any case, many thanks first to the Urban project, first to the Urban project, first to the Urban project, to the whole team here present, to the whole team here present, to the whole team here present, to the Savage project and obviously to to the Savage project and obviously to to the Savage project and obviously to the project partners. Thank you, project partners. Thank you, project partners. Thank you, thank you very much. Thank you very much Antoine. thank you very much. Thank you very much Antoine. thank you very much. Thank you very much Antoine. Incredible transition. Incredible transition. Incredible transition. Next, I have lots of Next, I have lots of Next, I have lots of questions, we will not have time questions, we will not have time questions, we will not have time to ask them all. to ask them all. to ask them all. Interesting. There are extremely Interesting. There are extremely Interesting. There are extremely encouraging results. Uh I noted encouraging results. Uh I noted encouraging results. Uh I noted some things. I will leave some things. I will leave some things. I will leave the floor to Edgar right away uh to the floor to Edgar right away uh to the floor to Edgar right away uh to present the SPG and what is being done. But present the SPG and what is being done. But present the SPG and what is being done. But uh but yeah, I have some uh but yeah, I have some uh but yeah, I have some small questions to ask at the end. small questions to ask at the end. small questions to ask at the end. That’s it. Thank you very much Antoine and Edgar. That’s it. Thank you very much Antoine and Edgar. That’s it. Thank you very much Antoine and Edgar. Well then it’s your turn. You Well then it’s your turn. You Well then it’s your turn. You have the floor. have the floor. have the floor. What do you think should What do you think should What do you think should be done to integrate your be done to integrate your be done to integrate your cover crops into your cover crops into your cover crops into your cropping system so that it cropping system so that it cropping system so that it is uh is uh is uh profitable profitable profitable both agronomically and economically both agronomically and economically both agronomically and economically and in terms of labor time? You, and in terms of labor time? You, and in terms of labor time? You, what would you propose as what would you propose as what would you propose as an alternative or mix of methods or an alternative or mix of methods or an alternative or mix of methods or technology to make it more technology to make it more technology to make it more adapted to your way of doing? adapted to your way of doing? adapted to your way of doing? Yeah, I think it is important Yeah, I think it is important Yeah, I think it is important to associate these practices and it is even to associate these practices and it is even to associate these practices and it is even essential. So it is that essential. So it is that essential. So it is that the microorganisms we apply need the microorganisms we apply need the microorganisms we apply need substrate, matter to substrate, matter to substrate, matter to develop, stay present and develop, stay present and develop, stay present and multiply. And uh for us it is multiply. And uh for us it is multiply. And uh for us it is what we did when we what we did when we what we did when we applied the microorganisms. There applied the microorganisms. There applied the microorganisms. There was always an organic was always an organic was always an organic substrate, either substrate, either substrate, either compost or a compost or a compost or an organic substrate present so that an organic substrate present so that an organic substrate present so that these microorganisms can these microorganisms can these microorganisms can be present and last over be present and last over be present and last over time in the soil. Uh in the soil. Uh in the soil. Uh and so as you said also, the and so as you said also, the and so as you said also, the microorganisms also help microorganisms also help microorganisms also help degrade organic matter degrade organic matter degrade organic matter more quickly. It can also more quickly. It can also more quickly. It can also bring bacteria that can bring bacteria that can bring bacteria that can fix nitrogen. So we know fix nitrogen. So we know fix nitrogen. So we know there can be risks of nitrogen there can be risks of nitrogen there can be risks of nitrogen deficiency with a lot of organic deficiency with a lot of organic deficiency with a lot of organic matter inputs. matter inputs. matter inputs. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria Nitrogen-fixing bacteria Nitrogen-fixing bacteria would therefore limit this would therefore limit this would therefore limit this nitrogen deficiency. So for me, it is nitrogen deficiency. So for me, it is nitrogen deficiency. So for me, it is logical that these practices logical that these practices logical that these practices are associated. are associated. are associated. Uh and what we also saw is Uh and what we also saw is Uh and what we also saw is that microorganisms have a quite that microorganisms have a quite that microorganisms have a quite limited lifespan. So it is also limited lifespan. So it is also limited lifespan. So it is also important to apply them important to apply them important to apply them regularly and not just put regularly and not just put regularly and not just put them at the beginning of the them at the beginning of the them at the beginning of the crop and expect them to crop and expect them to crop and expect them to remain continuously. So what remain continuously. So what remain continuously. So what I just wanted to add, I is I just wanted to add, I is I just wanted to add, I mean with regard to organic mean with regard to organic mean with regard to organic matter uh we are in urban matter uh we are in urban matter uh we are in urban peri-urban systems where there is a peri-urban systems where there is a peri-urban systems where there is a very rapid turnover and so it is not very rapid turnover and so it is not very rapid turnover and so it is not cereal systems and so it is not cereal systems and so it is not cereal systems where you can have a cereal systems where you can have a cereal systems where you can have a fairly long fairly long fairly long dry period where you can dry period where you can dry period where you can afford to add organic afford to add organic afford to add organic matter which can degrade. matter which can degrade. matter which can degrade. I think in urban I think in urban I think in urban peri-urban systems, it is peri-urban systems, it is peri-urban systems, it is important to compost important to compost important to compost this organic matter to be able this organic matter to be able this organic matter to be able to apply it continuously to to apply it continuously to to apply it continuously to the crops. the crops. the crops. Uh and I add another layer Uh and I add another layer Uh and I add another layer on this, which is that when on this, which is that when on this, which is that when you add microorganisms, compost you add microorganisms, compost you add microorganisms, compost is much faster to set up is much faster to set up is much faster to set up and be produced. Uh so we and be produced. Uh so we and be produced. Uh so we are at 3 months without are at 3 months without are at 3 months without microorganisms and we are microorganisms and we are microorganisms and we can be at 1 month with can be at 1 month with can be at 1 month with microorganisms. So there is an microorganisms. So there is an microorganisms. So there is an interest uh so that this organic interest uh so that this organic interest uh so that this organic matter uh can be more quickly matter uh can be more quickly matter uh can be more quickly usable. Uh and we talked about usable. Uh and we talked about usable. Uh and we talked about this earlier a bit on this earlier a bit on this earlier a bit on which I wanted to bounce which I wanted to bounce which I wanted to bounce off, it is uh off, it is uh off, it is uh the association of the practices the association of the practices the association of the practices is beneficial. However, what is is beneficial. However, what is is beneficial. However, what is to be said is that the to be said is that the to be said is that the association of conventional association of conventional association of conventional practice with the use of practice with the use of practice with the use of microorganisms is microorganisms is microorganisms is detrimental. Uh we know, if we detrimental. Uh we know, if we detrimental. Uh we know, if we apply a fungicide, an insecticide apply a fungicide, an insecticide apply a fungicide, an insecticide after a treatment of after a treatment of after a treatment of microorganisms, we will lose microorganisms, we will lose microorganisms, we will lose this microbial diversity. Uh so it is this microbial diversity. Uh so it is this microbial diversity. Uh so it is important to this microbial diversity. Uh so it is important to this microbial diversity. Uh so it is important to not just add all not just add all not just add all practices. Sometimes it is practices. Sometimes it is practices. Sometimes it is necessary to reduce other necessary to reduce other necessary to reduce other inputs to avoid inhibitory inputs to avoid inhibitory inputs to avoid inhibitory effects. effects. effects. Just to follow up on Just to follow up on Just to follow up on your intervention Antoine your intervention Antoine your intervention Antoine not to always mix conventional not to always mix conventional not to always mix conventional and agroecological practices. and agroecological practices. and agroecological practices. For example For example For example uh uh microorganisms plus fungicide. uh uh microorganisms plus fungicide. uh uh microorganisms plus fungicide. I had a question. Uh the I had a question. Uh the I had a question. Uh the market gardening producers in market gardening producers in market gardening producers in the Cotonou region uh I have the impression the Cotonou region uh I have the impression the Cotonou region uh I have the impression and correct me if I am wrong and correct me if I am wrong and correct me if I am wrong please, they use uh a lot please, they use uh a lot please, they use uh a lot of poultry manure as fertilization. of poultry manure as fertilization. of poultry manure as fertilization. This poultry manure comes This poultry manure comes This poultry manure comes from conventional livestock I suppose. from conventional livestock I suppose. from conventional livestock I suppose. So I suppose it is loaded and So I suppose it is loaded and So I suppose it is loaded and it is the same, these are it is the same, these are it is the same, these are assumptions and it is a question assumptions and it is a question assumptions and it is a question about antibiotics. about antibiotics. about antibiotics. Is it uh is it in the Is it uh is it in the Is it uh is it in the research uh precisely of the impact research uh precisely of the impact research uh precisely of the impact of these microorganisms, the impact of these microorganisms, the impact of these microorganisms, the symbiotic, the appearance of the symbiotic, the appearance of the symbiotic, the appearance of the nematodes also? because the nematodes also? because the nematodes also? because the expansion also? because the expansion also? because the expansion finally the exponential finally the exponential finally the exponential development of these nematodes development of these nematodes development of these nematodes on galls, we do not observe on galls, we do not observe on galls, we do not observe them in other systems where we have them in other systems where we have them in other systems where we have much higher organic matter much higher organic matter much higher organic matter levels for example or do you levels for example or do you levels for example or do you think it could be partly think it could be partly think it could be partly due to the presence of antibiotics and due to the presence of antibiotics and due to the presence of antibiotics and the fact that every time we fertilize we disinfect every time we fertilize we disinfect every time we fertilize we disinfect to to make I am making shortcuts to make I am making shortcuts to make I am making shortcuts huge maybe but it is a huge maybe but it is a huge maybe but it is a question I have asked question I have asked question I have asked almost since the beginning almost since the beginning almost since the beginning of the Urban project and I have not of the Urban project and I have not of the Urban project and I have not had the opportunity to have analyses had the opportunity to have analyses had the opportunity to have analyses of poultry manure. Uh so here of poultry manure. Uh so here of poultry manure. Uh so here it is, poultry manure. Uh so here it is, poultry manure. Uh so here it is, it is a question I ask you. it is a question I ask you. it is a question I ask you. Hm. Yes. In any case uh all Hm. Yes. In any case uh all Hm. Yes. In any case uh all organic matter uh amendment or organic matter uh amendment or organic matter uh amendment or organic fertilizer is not perfect. It can fertilizer is not perfect. It can fertilizer is not perfect. It can have forms of pollution have forms of pollution have forms of pollution through poultry manure, through poultry manure, through poultry manure, antibiotics, but also pathogens antibiotics, but also pathogens antibiotics, but also pathogens that can be harmful to humans. that can be harmful to humans. that can be harmful to humans. So there are risks of So there are risks of So there are risks of microbial contamination microbial contamination microbial contamination with regard to consumers. with regard to consumers. with regard to consumers. Uh Uh Uh and so uh whether it is poultry and so uh whether it is poultry and so uh whether it is poultry manure, but also the manure, but also the manure, but also the waste uh which can also waste uh which can also waste uh which can also be used and can have a be used and can have a be used and can have a beneficial impact in terms of beneficial impact in terms of beneficial impact in terms of carbon input in the soil. carbon input in the soil. carbon input in the soil. But in any case uh there is But in any case uh there is But in any case uh there is a sanitary aspect a sanitary aspect a sanitary aspect that must be taken into account. So that must be taken into account. So that must be taken into account. So precisely with Sira and a colleague Precisely with Sira and a colleague Precisely with Sira and a colleague Mathieu Bravin from ITÉ recycling and Mathieu Bravin from ITÉ recycling and Mathieu Bravin from ITÉ recycling and risk, we are currently risk, we are currently risk, we are currently collecting various samples collecting various samples collecting various samples of soil and organic matter for of soil and organic matter for of soil and organic matter for analysis and to see what is analysis and to see what is analysis and to see what is really in terms of pollution. Uh so really in terms of pollution. Uh so really in terms of pollution. Uh so metagenomics and uh and metagenomics and uh and metagenomics and uh pathogens. pathogens. pathogens. Uh regarding the question of Uh regarding the question of Uh regarding the question of nematodes, it is possible uh nematodes, it is possible uh nematodes, it is possible uh that organic matter or organic that organic matter or organic that organic matter or organic fertilizers transmit pathogens fertilizers transmit pathogens fertilizers transmit pathogens nematodes or others. Uh it is nematodes or others. Uh it is nematodes or others. Uh it is quite possible. In any case, one it is quite possible. In any case, one it is quite possible. In any case, one thing is certain, it is thing is certain, it is thing is certain, it is that a soil very that a soil very that a soil very poor in organic matter uh poor in organic matter uh poor in organic matter uh is a soil that will be more is a soil that will be more is a soil that will be more easily infested with telluric easily infested with telluric easily infested with telluric diseases, telluric pathogens, diseases, telluric pathogens, diseases, telluric pathogens, nematodes, bacterial wilt. In fact, nematodes, bacterial wilt. In fact, nematodes, bacterial wilt. In fact, there is a biological balance there is a biological balance there is a biological balance that is no longer present, that is no longer present, that is no longer present, the soil is unbalanced the soil is unbalanced the soil is unbalanced and some pathogens will take and some pathogens will take and some pathogens will take over and will take advantage of over and will take advantage of over and will take advantage of this imbalance to multiply and this imbalance to multiply and this imbalance to multiply and infest the crops. So in a healthy infest the crops. So in a healthy infest the crops. So in a healthy soil, we always obviously soil, we always obviously soil, we always obviously have nematodes or bacteria have nematodes or bacteria have nematodes or bacteria and pathogens, but in fact and pathogens, but in fact and pathogens, but in fact they will be they will be they will be so little present and surrounded so little present and surrounded so little present and surrounded by so many other organisms by so many other organisms by so many other organisms that they will not that they will not that they will not cause damage to cause damage to cause damage to market gardening crops. market gardening crops. market gardening crops. Thank you very much to Antoine who Thank you very much to Antoine who Thank you very much to Antoine who made the connection. Thanks to everyone, all made the connection. Thanks to everyone, all made the connection. Thanks to everyone, all the organizers, all those who the organizers, all those who the organizers, all those who mobilized for the design and mobilized for the design and mobilized for the design and implementation of the Urban project and implementation of the Urban project and implementation of the Urban project and thank you for also giving us thank you for also giving us thank you for also giving us the opportunity to share what we the opportunity to share what we the opportunity to share what we are doing on the SPG approach to are doing on the SPG approach to are doing on the SPG approach to promote agricultural products. So I will promote agricultural products. So I will promote agricultural products. So I will make two presentations so I make two presentations so I make two presentations so very quickly and our motto also very quickly and our motto also very quickly and our motto also is to consume organic where we live without is to consume organic where we live without is to consume organic where we live without polluting the environment. SPJ is a polluting the environment. SPJ is a polluting the environment. SPJ is a credible tool for certification credible tool for certification credible tool for certification of organic agricultural products. of organic agricultural products. of organic agricultural products. So it is an alternative So it is an alternative So it is an alternative certification system adapted certification system adapted certification system adapted to local realities of each to local realities of each to local realities of each country or terroir. It is less country or terroir. It is less country or terroir. It is less costly compared to costly compared to costly compared to TI party certifications. Benin was TI party certifications. Benin was TI party certifications. Benin was the very first country to implement the very first country to implement the very first country to implement in West Africa and in Central in West Africa and in Central in West Africa and in Central Africa the biospg label which is Africa the biospg label which is Africa the biospg label which is a participatory certification. a participatory certification. a participatory certification. So as defined by IFOAM, it is a So as defined by IFOAM, it is a So as defined by IFOAM, it is a locally anchored quality assurance locally anchored quality assurance locally anchored quality assurance system that certifies productions system that certifies productions system that certifies productions based on the active participation based on the active participation based on the active participation of consumers and producers of consumers and producers of consumers and producers concerned through trust, concerned through trust, concerned through trust, exchanges and also knowledge and exchanges and also knowledge and exchanges and also knowledge and know-how. know-how. know-how. It is an alternative It is an alternative It is an alternative certification to TI party certification. certification to TI party certification. certification to TI party certification. So there are some slides So there are some slides So there are some slides that I will go through very that I will go through very that I will go through very quickly. Uh that I will go through very quickly. Uh that I will go through very quickly. Uh SPG is developing all SPG is developing all SPG is developing all over the continents and I have over the continents and I have over the continents and I have 2019 statistics, there were 2019 statistics, there were 2019 statistics, there were already more than 250 SPG already more than 250 SPG already more than 250 SPG initiatives in more than initiatives in more than initiatives in more than 110 countries. 110 countries. 110 countries. So you can see on the world So you can see on the world So you can see on the world map here uh the distribution map here uh the distribution map here uh the distribution of SPG initiatives. In Africa, we of SPG initiatives. In Africa, we of SPG initiatives. In Africa, we count about fifty. count about fifty. count about fifty. In Benin, we have uh about In Benin, we have uh about In Benin, we have uh about forty SPG initiatives, groups forty SPG initiatives, groups forty SPG initiatives, groups in h departments of in h departments of in h departments of Benin. Benin. Benin. On the screen, you can see On the screen, you can see On the screen, you can see some processing units some processing units some processing units that process certified BIOSPG that process certified BIOSPG that process certified BIOSPG products. In the second column, products. In the second column, products. In the second column, you see the organizations or you see the organizations or you see the organizations or companies. 3rd column is the companies. 3rd column is the companies. 3rd column is the products that are products that are products that are processed. and then the areas or the and then the areas or the and then the areas or the municipalities where these companies municipalities where these companies municipalities where these companies are located. are located. are located. The following table is a The following table is a The following table is a dozen shops and points of dozen shops and points of dozen shops and points of sale of certified biospg sale of certified biospg sale of certified biospg products in Benin. There are more products in Benin. There are more products in Benin. There are more than thirty. We have positioned just than thirty. We have positioned just than thirty. We have positioned just about ten there. about ten there. about ten there. So some figures today So some figures today So some figures today there are more than 2300 there are more than 2300 there are more than 2300 producers engaged producers engaged producers engaged in SPG certification, 37 in SPG certification, 37 in SPG certification, 37 organizations or producer organizations or producer organizations or producer groups, 22 municipalities of groups, 22 municipalities of groups, 22 municipalities of Benin, 8 departments, 12 Benin, 8 departments, 12 Benin, 8 departments, 12 value chains, 12 shops and 10 value chains, 12 shops and 10 value chains, 12 shops and 10 processing units. processing units. processing units. Here are just Here are just Here are just some logos uh starting some logos uh starting some logos uh starting from my left, it is the from my left, it is the from my left, it is the BOSPG label logo BOSPG label logo BOSPG label logo of Benin. In the middle, it is uh a of Benin. In the middle, it is uh a of Benin. In the middle, it is uh a label from Senegal from Burkina label from Senegal from Burkina label from Senegal from Burkina Faso, the BioSenat but also the Faso, the BioSenat but also the Faso, the BioSenat but also the logo of the SPG initiative from logo of the SPG initiative from logo of the SPG initiative from Senegal which is on the far Senegal which is on the far Senegal which is on the far right. right. right. So the BC in Benin, the So the BC in Benin, the So the BC in Benin, the main value chains. There is main value chains. There is main value chains. There is market gardening, organic rice, market gardening, organic rice, market gardening, organic rice, fruit juices, organic soy, fruit juices, organic soy, fruit juices, organic soy, purple corn, its derivatives, purple corn, its derivatives, purple corn, its derivatives, organic cassava and its organic cassava and its organic cassava and its derivatives, honey, organic broiler derivatives, honey, organic broiler derivatives, honey, organic broiler chicken which is starting. chicken which is starting. chicken which is starting. Currently, SPGB relies on tools Currently, SPGB relies on tools Currently, SPGB relies on tools and organic farming standards and organic farming standards and organic farming standards that involve the adherence and that involve the adherence and that involve the adherence and commitment of actors working commitment of actors working commitment of actors working to promote organic and to promote organic and to promote organic and ecological farming, namely ecological farming, namely ecological farming, namely producers, consumers, producers, consumers, producers, consumers, processors but processors but processors but also distributors and also distributors and also distributors and non-governmental organizations non-governmental organizations non-governmental organizations involved in the field of involved in the field of involved in the field of organic farming. It is a tool organic farming. It is a tool organic farming. It is a tool for developing local and for developing local and for developing local and national markets. national markets. national markets. You have on the screen the You have on the screen the You have on the screen the certification mark of SPG certification mark of SPG certification mark of SPG Benin. Benin. Benin. So why SPG in Benin So why SPG in Benin So why SPG in Benin ? ? ? There are four reasons. The There are four reasons. The There are four reasons. The first reason is to reduce the first reason is to reduce the first reason is to reduce the costs of organic certification costs of organic certification costs of organic certification of products, to adapt demand of products, to adapt demand of products, to adapt demand to supply of organic to supply of organic to supply of organic products and to develop products and to develop products and to develop local organic markets. local organic markets. local organic markets. To make the mode credible. Yes. To make the mode credible. Yes. To make the mode credible. Yes. Can you hear me Edgar? Yes, sorry. I will Can you hear me Edgar? Yes, sorry. I will Can you hear me Edgar? Yes, sorry. I will just ask you to press just ask you to press just ask you to press down below on hide so down below on hide so down below on hide so that we can see your that we can see your that we can see your presentation fully presentation fully presentation fully just there. Perfect. You no just there. Perfect. You no just there. Perfect. You no more. more. more. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. So to make So to make So to make I mentioned the reasons I mentioned the reasons I mentioned the reasons that brought us here. Uh that brought us here. Uh that brought us here. Uh the first reason is to Uh the first reason is to Uh the first reason is to make the mode of production make the mode of production make the mode of production credible and give guarantee credible and give guarantee credible and give guarantee to local consumers who to local consumers who to local consumers who themselves participate in the themselves participate in the themselves participate in the certification system. certification system. certification system. Finally, it is to meet a Finally, it is to meet a Finally, it is to meet a need for ethics by involving need for ethics by involving need for ethics by involving actors in the organic actors in the organic actors in the organic certification system. certification system. certification system. So the SPG environment, you So the SPG environment, you So the SPG environment, you cannot say the ecosystem, here is cannot say the ecosystem, here is cannot say the ecosystem, here is a bit how it is composed. you a bit how it is composed. you a bit how it is composed. you have uh you have uh you have uh at the very top the organic at the very top the organic at the very top the organic production standards, I mean production standards, I mean production standards, I mean the charges. Moving in the the charges. Moving in the the charges. Moving in the center of the clock hand, we center of the clock hand, we center of the clock hand, we have the label you saw earlier. have the label you saw earlier. have the label you saw earlier. There is a documentation There is a documentation There is a documentation management system, there are management system, there are management system, there are individual commitments individual commitments individual commitments or collective of or collective of or collective of producers or organizations. producers or organizations. producers or organizations. There are well-known There are well-known There are well-known consequences in consequences in consequences in case of non-compliance and case of non-compliance and case of non-compliance and then there is the then there is the then there is the organic certification guide. organic certification guide. organic certification guide. Sorry, sometimes there are Sorry, sometimes there are Sorry, sometimes there are motorcycles passing, there motorcycles passing, there motorcycles passing, there are cars passing in the are cars passing in the are cars passing in the area where there is no area where there is no area where there is no problem, we hear everything problem, we hear everything problem, we hear everything perfectly. perfectly. perfectly. There are some points of There are some points of There are some points of similarity between TI similarity between TI similarity between TI party certification and SPG, party certification and SPG, party certification and SPG, which is that there is a which is that there is a which is that there is a charge for both. There are charge for both. There are charge for both. There are means of verifying means of verifying means of verifying compliance. compliance. compliance. There are documented There are documented There are documented procedures. procedures. procedures. There is also the There is also the There is also the commitment of producers. commitment of producers. commitment of producers. There is a label, there is There is a label, there is There is a label, there is a biological guarantee to the biological guarantee to the biological guarantee to the consumer. consumer. consumer. The target is either producers The target is either producers The target is either producers or large companies. or large companies. or large companies. Whatever the points of Whatever the points of Whatever the points of difference especially at the difference especially at the difference especially at the SPG level, the SPG has a SPG level, the SPG has a SPG level, the SPG has a horizontal organizational horizontal organizational horizontal organizational structure. The market is often structure. The market is often structure. The market is often targeted locally, nationally targeted locally, nationally targeted locally, nationally or regionally. or regionally. or regionally. Individual and/or collective Individual and/or collective Individual and/or collective marketing. The SPG approach marketing. The SPG approach marketing. The SPG approach combines extension and combines extension and combines extension and certification. certification. certification. The scope at the SPG level, The scope at the SPG level, The scope at the SPG level, is mainly the farm. is mainly the farm. is mainly the farm. You have on the screen the You have on the screen the You have on the screen the three levels uh of organization. three levels uh of organization. three levels uh of organization. Starting from the bottom, Starting from the bottom, Starting from the bottom, there are the base control there are the base control there are the base control groups. These are farmers groups. These are farmers groups. These are farmers who are geographically who are geographically who are geographically close and do self close and do self close and do self control among themselves. control among themselves. control among themselves. uh in the middle uh we have uh in the middle uh we have uh in the middle uh we have local coordination local coordination local coordination and certification offices which and certification offices which and certification offices which are nothing other than are nothing other than are nothing other than representatives of the base representatives of the base representatives of the base control groups. And at the control groups. And at the control groups. And at the national level, we have the national level, we have the national level, we have the National Certification National Certification National Certification Committee which brings Committee which brings Committee which brings together representatives of together representatives of together representatives of BLCCs, resource persons BLCCs, resource persons BLCCs, resource persons and state organizations such and state organizations such and state organizations such as the Ministry of Agriculture, as the Ministry of Agriculture, as the Ministry of Agriculture, ABSA which is the Food ABSA which is the Food ABSA which is the Food Safety Agency, ATDA, the Safety Agency, ATDA, the Safety Agency, ATDA, the regional poles, I mean regional poles, I mean regional poles, I mean agriculture and research etc. agriculture and research etc. agriculture and research etc. So here are the three levels. So here are the three levels. So here are the three levels. So the bodies, this is what I just So the bodies, this is what I just So the bodies, this is what I just presented. At the national level presented. At the national level presented. At the national level there is CONACER, the national there is CONACER, the national there is CONACER, the national certification committee, local certification committee, local certification committee, local coordination offices coordination offices coordination offices and base control groups. and base control groups. and base control groups. So, we have four types of So, we have four types of So, we have four types of surveys at the SPG Benin level. surveys at the SPG Benin level. surveys at the SPG Benin level. Uh the first survey is Uh the first survey is Uh the first survey is the most common, the the most common, the the most common, the certification survey. When you certification survey. When you certification survey. When you request to be certified request to be certified request to be certified for the first time, certification for the first time, certification for the first time, surveys are done. surveys are done. surveys are done. The second type of survey The second type of survey The second type of survey which is also widely which is also widely which is also widely used is the surveillance used is the surveillance used is the surveillance survey which is number 3. survey which is number 3. survey which is number 3. And when you are given the And when you are given the And when you are given the right to use the logo for a right to use the logo for a right to use the logo for a given period, it can be 1 year, given period, it can be 1 year, given period, it can be 1 year, 2 years or 3 years, surveillance 2 years or 3 years, surveillance 2 years or 3 years, surveys can be organized surveys can be organized surveys can be organized between the first day and between the first day and between the first day and the last day of certificate the last day of certificate the last day of certificate validity. There are other validity. There are other validity. There are other types of surveys, there are types of surveys, there are types of surveys, verification surveys which verification surveys which verification surveys which can be conducted to see if can be conducted to see if can be conducted to see if there are disputes during certification there are disputes during certification there are disputes during certification surveys. But there are also in surveys. But there are also in surveys. But there are also in last position investigation last position investigation last position investigation surveys which concern much surveys which concern much surveys which concern much more complaints that may come more complaints that may come more complaints that may come from actors or operators or from actors or operators or from actors or operators or consumers who may complain consumers who may complain consumers who may complain about some aspect of about some aspect of about some aspect of the functioning of the the functioning of the the functioning of the system. system. system. So some challenges here uh are So some challenges here uh are So some challenges here uh are to support the national organic to support the national organic to support the national organic farming sector RENAT bio. farming sector RENAT bio. farming sector RENAT bio. Provide institutional Provide institutional Provide institutional support, mobilize more support, mobilize more support, mobilize more technical and technical and technical and financial partners for the financial partners for the financial partners for the extension and scaling up extension and scaling up extension and scaling up of the SPG approach. of the SPG approach. of the SPG approach. Translate SPG tools into Translate SPG tools into Translate SPG tools into local language, support local local language, support local local language, support local organic input production organic input production organic input production companies. companies. companies. Raise awareness among Raise awareness among Raise awareness among local and national local and national local and national consumers to adopt products consumers to adopt products consumers to adopt products from organic farming and from organic farming and from organic farming and support the development support the development support the development of local food supply of local food supply of local food supply chains for the consumption chains for the consumption chains for the consumption of products from organic of products from organic of products from organic farming. farming. farming. So, we want to give some So, we want to give some So, we want to give some information about the support information about the support information about the support we are providing which is we are providing which is we are providing which is almost at its end to market almost at its end to market almost at its end to market gardeners benefiting from gardeners benefiting from gardeners benefiting from the CGE project of WVGE. the CGE project of WVGE. the CGE project of WVGE. The period runs from November The period runs from November The period runs from November 2025 to June 2026. It is in 6 2025 to June 2026. It is in 6 2025 to June 2026. It is in 6 municipalities of Benin municipalities of Benin municipalities of Benin Boy, Zobodoma, Lalo, Zobodoma, Lalo, Zobodoma, Lalo, Z and it concerns 10 market and it concerns 10 market and it concerns 10 market cooperatives. cooperatives. cooperatives. As a summary since we are As a summary since we are As a summary since we are already at the end already at the end already at the end it is 116 market gardeners it is 116 market gardeners it is 116 market gardeners benefiting from the CVE benefiting from the CVE benefiting from the CVE project who have been trained project who have been trained project who have been trained and supported and supported and supported cooperatives obtain the right cooperatives obtain the right cooperatives obtain the right to use the BIOSPG collective to use the BIOSPG collective to use the BIOSPG collective label of Benin and among the label of Benin and among the label of Benin and among the 116 there are 105 116 there are 105 116 there are 105 markets that meet production markets that meet production markets that meet production standards and receive their standards and receive their standards and receive their mention Biospg and then the mention Biospg and then the mention Biospg and then the CVE project is also CVE project is also CVE project is also organized to link these organized to link these organized to link these certified markets with certified markets with certified markets with school canteens, sellers school canteens, sellers school canteens, sellers and distributors of fresh organic and distributors of fresh organic and distributors of fresh organic vegetables. Here I share vegetables. Here I share vegetables. Here I share some images. These are some images. These are some images. These are training sessions for example in training sessions for example in training sessions for example in the municipality of Zobodomain on the municipality of Zobodomain on the municipality of Zobodomain on technical itineraries and the technical itineraries and the technical itineraries and the biospg certification process. Here we are biospg certification process. Here we are biospg certification process. Here we are in Boy, here we are in Boy, here we are in Boy, in the commune of Zer. I will in the commune of Zer. I will in the commune of Zer. I will go very quickly as these are go very quickly as these are go very quickly as these are images here. It concerns images here. It concerns images here. It concerns the visit and validation of the visit and validation of the visit and validation of market gardening production market gardening production market gardening production sites. sites. sites. Uh this is also the Uh this is also the Uh this is also the images of certification images of certification images of certification surveys that took place 3 surveys that took place 3 surveys that took place 3 weeks ago and here you have weeks ago and here you have weeks ago and here you have on the screen a view of on the screen a view of on the screen a view of members of the national members of the national members of the national certification committee who certification committee who certification committee who decided on the files decided on the files decided on the files of the 10 market gardening of the 10 market gardening of the 10 market gardening cooperatives who were cooperatives who were cooperatives who were candidates. candidates. candidates. So here is a bit the first So here is a bit the first So here is a bit the first presentation. I will go very presentation. I will go very presentation. I will go very quickly to save time. quickly to save time. quickly to save time. Here I called it Here I called it Here I called it presentation of Renat Bio and presentation of Renat Bio and presentation of Renat Bio and the benefits of SPG organic the benefits of SPG organic the benefits of SPG organic certification. certification. certification. I will also go very I will also go very I will also go very quickly, so the quickly, so the quickly, so the context of creation of context of creation of context of creation of Renat Bio, Renat Bio, Renat Bio, is in a context where there is is in a context where there is is in a context where there is a growing demand for a growing demand for a growing demand for healthy products. There is healthy products. There is healthy products. There is no proper fertile no proper fertile no proper fertile organization by the name organization by the name organization by the name of organic farming. of organic farming. of organic farming. There is a need to There is a need to There is a need to assess the situation of assess the situation of assess the situation of farmers engaged in farmers engaged in farmers engaged in the sector but there is also the sector but there is also the sector but there is also a clear willingness of a clear willingness of a clear willingness of the Benin government and the Benin government and the Benin government and Ministry of Agriculture to Ministry of Agriculture to Ministry of Agriculture to support the organic support the organic support the organic subsector. You have on the subsector. You have on the subsector. You have on the screen a photo of screen a photo of screen a photo of members of the board members of the board members of the board and the subsidy committee and the subsidy committee and the subsidy committee of Renat Bio. The of Renat Bio. The of Renat Bio. The vision of Renat Bio is to vision of Renat Bio is to vision of Renat Bio is to contribute uh in Benin to contribute uh in Benin to contribute uh in Benin to significantly increase significantly increase significantly increase its market share of organic its market share of organic its market share of organic and agroecological products on and agroecological products on and agroecological products on national, regional and national, regional and national, regional and international markets. international markets. international markets. So the mission is to promote So the mission is to promote So the mission is to promote contribute to promoting in Benin contribute to promoting in Benin contribute to promoting in Benin a social and solidarity a social and solidarity a social and solidarity economy, resilient and economy, resilient and economy, resilient and environmentally friendly environmentally friendly environmentally friendly agriculture and healthy agriculture and healthy agriculture and healthy food. The objectives of RENA food. The objectives of RENA food. The objectives of RENA bio are to participate in bio are to participate in bio are to participate in the implementation of the the implementation of the the implementation of the national strategy for the national strategy for the national strategy for the development of organic development of organic development of organic agriculture in Benin which agriculture in Benin which agriculture in Benin which was validated almost 3 years was validated almost 3 years was validated almost 3 years ago. ago. ago. improve and strengthen the improve and strengthen the improve and strengthen the situation of actors, defend the situation of actors, defend the situation of actors, defend the SPG organic label and any SPG organic label and any SPG organic label and any other sign of valorization other sign of valorization other sign of valorization and recognition of agricultural and recognition of agricultural and recognition of agricultural products from Benin. Strengthen products from Benin. Strengthen products from Benin. Strengthen the ranks of farmers and the ranks of farmers and the ranks of farmers and breeders engaged in breeders engaged in breeders engaged in organic farming. So at the organic farming. So at the organic farming. So at the Renat Bio level Renat Bio level Renat Bio level there are two categories there are two categories there are two categories of actors. There are direct of actors. There are direct of actors. There are direct actors in three actors in three actors in three colleges. There is the colleges. There is the colleges. There is the college of producers, the college of producers, the college of producers, the college of processors and the college of processors and the college of processors and the college of distributors. The second college of distributors. The second college of distributors. The second category concerns category concerns category concerns organizations of APU. organizations of APU. organizations of APU. After 15 years, a little more After 15 years, a little more After 15 years, a little more than 15 years of SPG than 15 years of SPG than 15 years of SPG implementation in Benin, we implementation in Benin, we implementation in Benin, we have a specifications for have a specifications for have a specifications for plant production, agro-food plant production, agro-food plant production, agro-food processing, honey and mushroom, processing, honey and mushroom, processing, honey and mushroom, a collective label and a a collective label and a a collective label and a BSPG certification, nearly 2300 BSPG certification, nearly 2300 BSPG certification, nearly 2300 member farmers and breeders, member farmers and breeders, member farmers and breeders, five sectors and more than five sectors and more than five sectors and more than 30 farmer groups. I had 30 farmer groups. I had 30 farmer groups. I had already mentioned already mentioned already mentioned departments, I had presented departments, I had presented departments, I had presented this table and some this table and some this table and some figures regarding value figures regarding value figures regarding value chains. At the market gardening chains. At the market gardening chains. At the market gardening level, you see there are the level, you see there are the level, you see there are the baskets of organic baskets of organic baskets of organic vegetables that have been vegetables that have been vegetables that have been produced for more than produced for more than produced for more than 17 years. On the left, you 17 years. On the left, you 17 years. On the left, you have tomato pies, which have have tomato pies, which have have tomato pies, which have been part of processed been part of processed been part of processed market gardening products. market gardening products. market gardening products. At the market gardening At the market gardening At the market gardening sector, there are 7 affected sector, there are 7 affected sector, there are 7 affected municipalities, 623 markets, 7 municipalities, 623 markets, 7 municipalities, 623 markets, 7 product derivatives, 3 product derivatives, 3 product derivatives, 3 processing units. At the processing units. At the processing units. At the organic rice level, you have organic rice level, you have organic rice level, you have Matport rice and organic Matport rice and organic Matport rice and organic rice from Comin. At rice from Comin. At rice from Comin. At the fruit juice level, there are the fruit juice level, there are the fruit juice level, there are eight flavors marketed eight flavors marketed eight flavors marketed by the AMAP Benin by the AMAP Benin by the AMAP Benin cooperative. At the soy level, cooperative. At the soy level, cooperative. At the soy level, seed production is seed production is seed production is done by about ten done by about ten done by about ten seed producers but there are seed producers but there are seed producers but there are also nearly 150 organic also nearly 150 organic also nearly 150 organic soy SPG producers. There soy SPG producers. There soy SPG producers. There are also soy-derived are also soy-derived are also soy-derived products such as soy cheese, products such as soy cheese, products such as soy cheese, soy milk, soy biscuits, soy milk, soy biscuits, soy milk, soy biscuits, soy skewers, etc. soy skewers, etc. soy skewers, etc. For soy, we have four For soy, we have four For soy, we have four municipalities, 10 seed municipalities, 10 seed municipalities, 10 seed producers, 40 processors, 5 producers, 40 processors, 5 producers, 40 processors, 5 derivatives, three processing derivatives, three processing derivatives, three processing units, one organic soy SPG units, one organic soy SPG units, one organic soy SPG storage warehouse. storage warehouse. storage warehouse. Uh for the purple corn value Uh for the purple corn value Uh for the purple corn value chains, we have two chains, we have two chains, we have two municipalities, Cosa Ati, 82 municipalities, Cosa Ati, 82 municipalities, Cosa Ati, 82 producers, four derivatives, a producers, four derivatives, a producers, four derivatives, a purple corn processing unit. purple corn processing unit. purple corn processing unit. For bananas, we have two For bananas, we have two For bananas, we have two municipalities, Wida Torit, former municipalities, Wida Torit, former municipalities, Wida Torit, former producer, two derivatives and producer, two derivatives and producer, two derivatives and banana. banana. banana. So the perspectives are that So the perspectives are that So the perspectives are that we are looking for partners we are looking for partners we are looking for partners to extend networks, we to extend networks, we to extend networks, we plan to set up plan to set up plan to set up specifications for organic specifications for organic specifications for organic rabbit farming, organic rabbit farming, organic rabbit farming, poultry farming and poultry farming and poultry farming and caprine and ovine farming but caprine and ovine farming but caprine and ovine farming but also to train actors on also to train actors on also to train actors on various themes, support various themes, support various themes, support certification of new groups certification of new groups certification of new groups and also support groups and also support groups and also support groups in product marketing because when in product marketing because when in product marketing because when product marketing is successful, product marketing is successful, product marketing is successful, producers get a producers get a producers get a premium which can premium which can premium which can attract the rest attract the rest attract the rest of the other links in the of the other links in the of the other links in the chain. chain. chain. So the benefits of SPG, it So the benefits of SPG, it So the benefits of SPG, it allows SPG organic farming allows SPG organic farming allows SPG organic farming in general, it allows in general, it allows in general, it allows to feed the population, to preserve to feed the population, to preserve to feed the population, to preserve natural resources, to add value natural resources, to add value natural resources, to add value to local agricultural products to local agricultural products to local agricultural products by quality, to distinguish by quality, to distinguish by quality, to distinguish products grown or processed products grown or processed products grown or processed according to organic production according to organic production according to organic production standards. standards. standards. And it also allows to And it also allows to And it also allows to obtain a premium. obtain a premium. obtain a premium. I give some examples here. I give some examples here. I give some examples here. When I take the case of AMAP When I take the case of AMAP When I take the case of AMAP Benin for 5 years, the AMAP Benin for 5 years, the AMAP Benin for 5 years, the AMAP Benin cooperative has AMAP Benin cooperative has AMAP Benin cooperative has been able to obtain a delivery been able to obtain a delivery been able to obtain a delivery contract for several products contract for several products contract for several products including vegetables, fruit including vegetables, fruit including vegetables, fruit juices, organic rice and juices, organic rice and juices, organic rice and at the at the company Serv at the at the company Serv at the at the company Serv at the Air France catering arm Air France catering arm Air France catering arm and we were able to and we were able to and we were able to negotiate a 10% organic negotiate a 10% organic negotiate a 10% organic premium applied to all premium applied to all premium applied to all products. When we take products. When we take products. When we take the case of Maticport rice the case of Maticport rice the case of Maticport rice produced in the Grand Popo, produced in the Grand Popo, produced in the Grand Popo, we realize that it is the rice we realize that it is the rice we realize that it is the rice from Benin that is the best from Benin that is the best from Benin that is the best sold, with a price sold, with a price sold, with a price margin of 30% compared margin of 30% compared margin of 30% compared to other rice. to other rice. to other rice. Then when we also take Then when we also take Then when we also take the case of soy, the case of soy, the case of soy, organic soy, I mean for 3 organic soy, I mean for 3 organic soy, I mean for 3 years, the government years, the government years, the government announces official selling announces official selling announces official selling prices of soy. We realize prices of soy. We realize prices of soy. We realize that each time the official that each time the official that each time the official price is about 50% price is about 50% price is about 50% higher than conventional higher than conventional higher than conventional soy, which represents about soy, which represents about soy, which represents about 18% compared to 18% compared to 18% compared to conventional soy. So these conventional soy. So these conventional soy. So these are some examples that are are some examples that are are some examples that are evidence that there is evidence that there is evidence that there is interest in supporting interest in supporting interest in supporting small farmers to certify small farmers to certify small farmers to certify their products according to their products according to their products according to the SPG organic the SPG organic the SPG organic approach. Thank you very much and that’s what I planned to share with you. Thank you very much and that’s what I planned to share with you. Thank you very much and that’s what I planned to share with you. So I, regarding the work So I, regarding the work So I, regarding the work the Urban project has done, I wanted the Urban project has done, I wanted the Urban project has done, I wanted to ask if all this is already to ask if all this is already to ask if all this is already in the form of technical sheets in the form of technical sheets in the form of technical sheets that can be disseminated so that that can be disseminated so that that can be disseminated so that producers can try and adopt producers can try and adopt producers can try and adopt this well. That was my this well. That was my this well. That was my main concern for the main concern for the main concern for the moment. Thank you very moment. Thank you very moment. Thank you very much. Uh thank you for the Uh thank you for the Uh thank you for the question. Yes, we will question. Yes, we will question. Yes, we will have uh several technical have uh several technical have uh several technical sheets, so practice sheets sheets, so practice sheets, so practice sheets, yes summaries of practice yes summaries of practice yes summaries of practice for example on the fermented for example on the fermented for example on the fermented juice mentioned earlier uh very juice mentioned earlier uh very juice mentioned earlier uh very basic recipe so that it basic recipe so that it basic recipe so that it can be used by others can be used by others can be used by others producers as well. Uh we will also producers as well. Uh we will also producers as well. Uh we will also have summaries of have summaries of have summaries of experiments uh which experiments uh which experiments uh which are available either in video, are available either in video, are available either in video, or in article also uh for producers or in article also uh for producers or in article also uh for producers who want to get inspired. who want to get inspired. who want to get inspired. Uh and so the work done by Uh and so the work done by Uh and so the work done by Terre de Uh and so the work done by Terre de Uh and so the work done by Terre de Terre Production and CNA, it is Terre Production and CNA, it is Terre Production and CNA, it is really the dissemination of really the dissemination of really the dissemination of agroecological practices agroecological practices agroecological practices and I would say the and I would say the and I would say the popularization of research popularization of research popularization of research to make it usable to to make it usable to to make it usable to producers. So uh to producers. So uh to producers. So it is really uh the portraits it is really uh the portraits it is really uh the portraits of farms also, we have done of farms also, we have done of farms also, we have done farm portraits. Romuald’s farm is farm portraits. Romuald’s farm is farm portraits. Romuald’s farm is documented on Triple documented on Triple documented on Triple Performance. We have also Performance. We have also Performance. We have also documented several farms uh documented several farms uh documented several farms uh from the CVC project followed from the CVC project followed from the CVC project followed by Antoine. by Antoine. by Antoine. Uh and all this is of course Uh and all this is of course Uh and all this is of course intended for other intended for other intended for other Beninese producers. Uh we Beninese producers. Uh we Beninese producers. Uh we really want to really want to really want to question the champions question the champions question the champions to inspire other to inspire other to inspire other producers so that they producers so that they producers so that they can follow this path. And can follow this path. And can follow this path. And with this webinar to And with this webinar to And with this webinar to conclude, we also give conclude, we also give conclude, we also give different contacts. That is, different contacts. That is, different contacts. That is, we have producer Romuald we have producer Romuald we have producer Romuald who implements agroecological who implements agroecological who implements agroecological practices. We have uh the practices. We have uh the practices. We have uh the microbiologist Ulis who will microbiologist Ulis who will microbiologist Ulis who will work on the symbiotic work on the symbiotic work on the symbiotic part and who has supported part and who has supported part and who has supported Romuald on these parts Romuald on these parts Romuald on these parts to improve. We have Antoine to improve. We have Antoine to improve. We have Antoine the agronomist who worked the agronomist who worked the agronomist who worked with many Beninese with many Beninese with many Beninese producers to lift some producers to lift some producers to lift some agronomic levers and we have agronomic levers and we have agronomic levers and we have Edgar who just came Edgar who just came Edgar who just came to talk about marketing to talk about marketing to talk about marketing of agroecological production. of agroecological production. of agroecological production. So really to have the So really to have the So really to have the whole line, the contacts and our whole line, the contacts and our whole line, the contacts and our objective is to support objective is to support objective is to support Beninese producers Beninese producers Beninese producers so that they can achieve so that they can achieve so that they can achieve a transition whatever the system a transition whatever the system a transition whatever the system they are currently in and that they are currently in and that they are currently in and that we present tools and that we present tools and that we present tools and that they can pick from that they can pick from that they can pick from to adapt to their system to adapt to their system to adapt to their system and make a transition. We do not say and make a transition. We do not say and make a transition. We do not say to abandon chemical to abandon chemical to abandon chemical inputs and synthetic products inputs and synthetic products inputs and synthetic products overnight. We are overnight. We are overnight. We are aware that there is 1 aware that there is 1 aware that there is 1 reality and that it is necessary reality and that it is necessary reality and that it is necessary to present trials, alternatives to present trials, alternatives to present trials, alternatives and innovations so that and innovations so that and innovations so that everyone can adapt them everyone can adapt them everyone can adapt them to their context and to make to their context and to make to their context and to make their system productive and their system productive and their system productive and profitable. Good.

{{Vidéo
|Titre=AGROECOLOGY IN BENIN - Part 2
| Producteur=National Center for Agroecology
| Vignette=Thumbnail_youtube_kOkw-8KEyIY.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne=2026-06-25
| Durée=63 minutes
| Production=
| Vidéo=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOkw-8KEyIY
| Programme=Urbane
| Intervenants 0=Edgar Deguénon
| Intervenants 1=Antoine Troji
| Mots-clés=
| Résumé=In this second part dedicated to agroecology in Benin, Antoine Troji, an agronomist involved in the SAVABE project, presents the results of trials conducted in farming environments to combat root-knot nematodes in chili pepper cultivation. This multi-stakeholder project, funded by the European Union and the Embassy of the Netherlands, has tested endogenous and scientific innovations, such as the use of Crotalaria, African basil, or indigenous microorganisms.

The study highlights encouraging results for soil health, although adoption by producers requires constant adaptation to local economic and technical constraints. The discussion also addresses the crucial importance of the agroecological transition, supported by Edgar Deguénon who details the role of the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) to certify and promote organic products in local markets, thus ensuring better profitability for farmers engaged in this sustainable approach.
}}

This video was produced by the National Center for Agroecology (NCA) https://centre-national-agroecologie.fr/ as part of the URBANE project https://urbane-project.eu/, funded by the European Union.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Research Executive Agency (REA).

This video was made as part of the URBANE project co-funded by the European Union. Website: https://urbane-project.eu/

The opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA).

{{Pages liées}}

{{Résumé long
|Résumé=== Agroecology in Benin - Part 2 ==

As part of the Savage project, funded by the European Union and the Embassy of the Netherlands, work has been carried out to support the agroecological transition in Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali. Antoine, an agronomist involved in this project, details the challenges and results obtained, particularly regarding the management of pests in vegetable farming.

=== Diagnosis and Challenges of Market Gardening ===

The diagnosis conducted with 1200 producers highlighted major constraints:
* '''Soil fertility:''' a decline in fertility limiting yield potential.
* '''Pest pressure:''' a strong presence of root-knot nematodes, bacterial wilt, leafhoppers, and red mites (spider mites).
* '''Pesticide use:''' often abusive or unregulated use of non-approved products (e.g., highly toxic nematicides).

=== On-farm Experiments ===

The project tested agroecological innovations co-developed with producers, combining endogenous knowledge and research inputs:
# '''Crotalaria (''Crotalaria''):''' Legume with recognized nematicidal activity. Its effectiveness is real but limited in time (about 70 days after incorporation) and it may present integration challenges in short-cycle systems.
# '''African basil (''Ocimum gratissimum''):''' Marketable plant with repellent properties.
# '''Beneficial Indigenous Microorganisms (BIM):''' Derived from forest litter fermentation, they enhance soil health and plant resilience.
# '''Fermented fruit juices:''' Endogenous innovation used as a biostimulant for growth and salinity tolerance.

=== Results and Lessons Learned ===

The effectiveness of agroecological methods depends on a combination of factors. Trials showed that:
* Simple substitution of pesticides with a single practice is insufficient. The approach must be holistic (combining organic fertility and biological management).
* Integration of crotalaria requires careful management of spacing and timing to avoid competition with main crops.
* Producers note an improvement in harvest quality, allowing better selling prices, despite sometimes still variable yields.
* Land tenure security remains a major barrier to long-term investment in soil fertility.

=== Certification and Labeling: The Role of the SPG ===

Edgar, a certification expert, presented the '''Participatory Guarantee System (SPG)''', a locally rooted organic certification tool adapted to the realities of small producers in Benin.
* '''Advantages:''' Less costly than third-party certifications, it strengthens trust between producers and consumers.
* '''Expansion:''' Benin currently has about forty SPG initiatives, including 2300 producers and covering various sectors (market gardening, rice, soy, honey, etc.).
* '''Impact:''' Certification allows producers to obtain significant added value (e.g., +30% on rice price, +50% on organic soy) and better structure local supply chains.

=== Conclusion and Perspectives ===

Agroecological transition does not mean immediate abandonment of all inputs, but a step-by-step progression. Stakeholders emphasize:
* Continuous training in the local language on recognizing crop auxiliaries.
* Pooling the production of bio-inputs to reduce production costs.
* The need for clear technical sheets and profiles of "champion" farms to inspire other farmers and facilitate adoption of these profitable and sustainable practices.

}}
[[fr:AGROECOLOGIE AU BENIN - Partie 2]]

Mouzouna Farm

2026-06-19T15:58:05Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Mouzouna Farm
| Sous-titre=Educational farm in mixed farming and livestock
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Adil Dach
| Bannière=Adil Dach Test baniere 3.jpg
| Photo de l'agriculteur=Adile Dach Agriculteur 1.jpg
| Département=Morocco
| Adresse=Sidi Allal Lamsadder 15000, Morocco
| Coordonnées GPS=33.84701, -6.12399
| SAU=0.8 Ha
| UTH=1.5
| Texture du sol=Clay
| Type de production=Mixed farming and livestock
| Cultures=Cabbage@ Swiss chard@ Tomato@ Alfalfa cultivated@ Zucchini@ Olive@ Pomegranate@ Azolla@ Quince@ Lemon@ Vine@ Artemisia@ Verbena@ Hibiscus@ Mint
| Autres caractéristiques=Soil biological activity@ No tillage
| Titre court=Mouzouna Farm
| Objectif=Protein self-sufficiency
| Organisme=Structure:National Center for Agroecology
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Laying hen nutrition, Broiler chicken nutrition, Azolla, Market gardening
}}
Adil Dach, a farmer in Sidi Allal Lamsadder, Morocco, cultivates his land and raises his animals according to agroecology principles. Here is the portrait of his farm.

==Context==

===The farm===

*'''Farmer's name:''' Adil Dach
*'''Farm name:''' Mouzouna Farm
*'''Location:''' Sidi Allal Lamsadder 15000, Morocco
*'''Date of [[installation]]:''' 2022
*'''Cultivated area:''' 0.8 ha.
*'''Soil texture:''' [[Clay]]
*'''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]]) :''' 1.5
*'''Climate:''' According to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, Rabat has a [[Mediterranean climate]] with hot summers (Csa). Temperatures generally range between 13 °C and 24 °C throughout the year, with extremes rarely dropping to 5 °C or rising to 39 °C. Average annual precipitation is about 383 mm, spread over 52 rainy days per year.

===Farm history===

*Adil currently manages '''two rented farms'''. He settled with his family on the first farm in 2022, under a lease renewed in 2024, guaranteeing him occupancy of the land until 2028. While this situation provides some stability, Adil also points out its limitations: he is notably prohibited from planting new trees, which hinders some long-term projects.
*The first farm, called Muzuna, is registered as an educational farm. This is a first in Morocco: he initiated the creation of the educational farm status, which did not previously exist in the country's legal framework. This allowed him to position his farm as a place of knowledge transfer, in addition to its production function.
*The second farm, which he has just rented, opens new perspectives. He plans to develop both [[market gardening]] and [[poultry farming]] there.

===Labor===
''Two people work on the farm:''

*'''Adil''' works '''part-time on the farm''' and part-time as a manager of an IT company.
*'''A full-time employee''' manages daily operations but will be assigned to the second farm in the coming weeks. Adil will need to recruit a new worker.

===Marketing===
Adil develops a marketing activity exclusively in '''[[short supply chain]]''', with products sold directly to customers, without intermediaries. All plant production (vegetable garden, orchard, [[alfalfa]]) is intended for family consumption. There is currently no sale of vegetables or fruits.

Products sold are:
*'''Eggs''': about 100 eggs per week, depending on customer orders
*'''Chicks''': 250 chicks produced and sold per month
*'''Roosters''': a batch of 10 to 15 roosters per month
Last February, Adil organized his '''first training on agroecological poultry farming''', gathering 25 participants. Building on this experience, he wishes to organize a second session but is waiting to have enough registrants to schedule it.

===Plant production===

*'''[[Barley]]:''' 396 m² (18 m × 22 m)
*'''[[:Category:Alfalfa|Alfalfa]]:''' 950 m² (also used for animal feed)
*'''Vegetable garden:''' 954 m² (53 m × 18 m)
*'''Mandala garden project:''' 260 m² (20 m × 13 m)
*'''Water basins:''' 161 m² (7 m × 23 m)
*The rest of the land is occupied by an orchard mainly composed of '''[[olive trees]]''' (about 5000 m²).

===Animal production===
He currently raises:

*4 ducks
*6 sheep
*1 pair of peacocks
*4 female turkeys + 1 male
*60-70 hens (excluding chicks)
[[File:Adil Dach poulailler.png|thumbnail|Henhouse made with wood and tarp for waterproofing. |322x322px]]
The '''hens are free-ranging''' during the day and enclosed in henhouses at night. The two henhouses together occupy a total area of 260 m² (10 + 13) × 5 m with a target density of 4 to 6 hens per m². They are built with a wooden structure covered with tarps.

'''Note''' He notes that wooden structures pose problems due to the presence of ticks, which shelter in the crevices. He is therefore forced to regularly treat the hens. For his future project of 5,000 hens, he plans to build concrete buildings to avoid this type of health issue.

==Motivation and objective==

*'''At the scale of Mouzouna Farm''', Adil primarily seeks a living place close to nature, where his family can live in a healthy environment. He wants to produce enough to meet his family's food needs while developing [[chicken]] farming. His goal is to gradually increase the number of poultry to reach '''250 hens.''' However, beyond 100 animals, state authorization becomes necessary, complicating procedures, especially within organic farming production.
*On the '''second farm''', which he has just rented, he plans to start '''a farm with more than 500 hens''', aiming to gradually reach nearly '''1,000 poultry''' while developing '''one hectare in market gardening'''.

*At the same time, Adil plans, in the long term, '''to acquire a third plot,''' specifically dedicated to '''a larger-scale farm,''' with a '''target capacity of''' '''5,000 hens'''. He is currently looking for a suitable location for this ambitious project.

*For now, he enjoys balancing farm management with his IT business. He finds a certain balance alternating between office work and agricultural activities. He does not plan to abandon the IT sector to devote himself exclusively to farming.

==Agronomic aspect==

===Plant production===
[[File:Adil Dach couvert de Luzerne.jpg|thumbnail|Alfalfa cover crop irrigated by sprinkler. |317x317px]]
*Use of '''alfalfa cover crops''' irrigated by [[sprinkler]].
*'''Azolla production''' (floating nitrogen-fixing algae) used as '''nutritional supplement for chickens,''' an innovative practice of interest in the context of seeking [[protein self-sufficiency]] in poultry farming (see section on practice of interest).
*Implementation of '''associations of [[:Category:Crops|crops]] in market gardening''', to diversify production and improve crop resilience.
*[[File:Adil Dach Potager .jpg|thumbnail|314x314px|Vegetable garden with chili and cabbage in the foreground and zucchini and tomato in the background.]]Presence of '''spontaneous cover crops in the orchard''', contributing to biodiversity and soil protection.

*A project is underway to set up a '''new vegetable garden space in a [https://www.horticulteur.net/jardin-mandala/ Mandala garden].'''

===Animal production===
[[File:Adil Dach Couveuse.jpg|thumbnail|Incubator with a capacity of 250 chicks. |315x315px]]

====Incubation and chick rearing====

*Adil uses an '''incubator with a capacity of 250 eggs''', equipped with an automatic egg rotation system so that the eggs receive heat on the entire shell.
*The '''incubation cycle lasts 21 days''', to which he adds 2 extra days to allow late hatchers.

*[[File:Adile Dach Couveuse 2.jpg|thumbnail|184x184px|Roller system allowing eggs to be turned so they receive heat on the entire shell.]] Once the chicks hatch, he implements an original method to ensure natural care: he makes '''the incubator hatching coincide with the end of a natural brooding''' by one or more mother hens. When the mother's eggs hatch, he discreetly integrates the incubator chicks into the group. The hen, not perceiving the difference, adopts all the chicks and cares for them naturally.

====Use of automatic drinkers====
To optimize poultry watering, Adil has set up a system of '''automatic drinkers'''

*Each small individual drinker costs 12 MAD
*They are connected to a '''50-liter recovery drum''', placed at height and recovered from the farm.
*The system uses pipes about 1 meter each, costing 8 MAD per meter'''.'''
[[File:Abreuvoir pour les poules.jpg|thumbnail|254x254px|Small automatic drinker for poultry.]]
The device works with a pipe connected to a cup. When the poultry drinks, its beak presses the cup, mechanically activating a valve and allowing water to flow. The system closes automatically once the pressure is released. This device saves time and provides '''better regularity in water access''' for the animals.

==Practice of interest, Azolla cultivation==

===Context===
Azolla is a small floating aquatic [[fern]] known for its rapid growth and high protein content. Easy to cultivate in shallow ponds, it requires few inputs and naturally develops under shaded conditions with slightly moving water. Thanks to its '''high protein content''' (6% fresh weight and up to 30% dry weight), it represents an interesting alternative to supplement '''poultry feed''' autonomously and economically. When integrated into the hens' diet, Azolla can cover up to '''30% of their''' '''nutritional needs''', thus reducing dependence on commercial concentrates and costs related to grain purchases.

Initially, he started Azolla cultivation in a large pond of 7 x 5 meters, from plants purchased from a farm located in Chefchaouen. He became interested in its potential after discovering this plant in a Facebook post. Its high protein content and ease of cultivation convinced him to experiment.

===Setup of the Azolla culture pond===

=====Earthworks and tarp installation=====
[[File:Bassin de culture d'Azolla.jpg|thumbnail|350x350px|Large pond for Azolla cultivation.]]'''Pond depth:''' 40 cm over the entire surface
*Work time: 5 days for 2 people
*Tarp installation: 1 day for 2 people
*Tarp quality: Medium quality (bought cheaply at 8 MAD for a strip of 8 m x 1 m) To compensate, two layers of tarp were superimposed.

=====Shade cloth (used to block light because azolla does not like direct sunlight)=====

======Metal greenhouse structure ======
[[File:Abris culture Azolla.jpg|thumbnail|Shade cloth for Azolla cultivation. |351x351px]]Made with a welder, over 2 days. Adil recommends staying on site during the work to ensure dimensions are respected, which are not always well followed otherwise.
*'''Structure'''
**11 arches, spaced every 2.5 m
**Labor cost: 500 MAD
**Metal cost: 1,500 MAD

======Woven shading fabric:======

*Width: 7 m (with 1 m margin on each side of the pond)
*Length: 23 m
*Maximum height: 1.2 m
*For shading, he used a woven fabric made from a [[roll]] of 200 meters by 2 meters, purchased for 1,200 MAD. The shade cloth was sewn manually by joining several strips together.
**Work time: 3 days for 1 person
**Thread used: 3 spools of 100 m, at 10 MAD per spool

======Distribution of ponds under the shade cloth.======
The shelter houses 4 ponds measuring 7 m by 2.5 m and a large pond 7 meters long by 5 wide.

[[File:Adil Dach, plan de bassin culture d'azolla.png|center|thumbnail|619x619px|Dimensions and distribution of Azolla culture ponds under the shade cloth]]

*'''Note''' Adil tested cultivation with and without soil added at the bottom: in the case of the large pond, Adil added 5 cm of soil at the bottom and 15 cm of water. In the small ponds, he has only 20 cm of water; according to him, this does not significantly change anything, but adding soil takes a day to set up.

===Fertilization of azolla ponds: several attempts and an ideal method===

====First attempt: manure bags in the water====
Initially, Adil placed 30 kg manure bags directly in the ponds. He noticed that azolla became greener around the bags, but the effect remained localized: there was no real impact on the entire pond.

====Second method: manure infusion (juice)====
[[File:Baril avec infusion de fumier.jpg|thumbnail|239x239px|Barrel containing a manure bag and water to fertilize the Azolla culture.]]
He then experimented with a new method: he let manure bags macerate in a barrel filled with water, then poured this nitrogen-enriched water into the ponds. Result: the effect on azolla was visible over the entire pond surface, confirming better nutrient diffusion. However, this method proved tedious, as manure juice had to be added every two weeks, requiring time and energy.

====Third method: integration of ducks====
Finally, Adil found a simpler and more sustainable solution: he let ducks wade freely in the ponds during the day.

Contrary to his fears, ducks consume very little azolla, but their droppings in the water sufficiently fertilize the pond.

====Effects observed with the last method:====

*Azolla leaves are larger
*Roots reach up to 6 cm, compared to 2 cm previously.
*Production is about 10% higher.
*After harvest, pond recolonization is faster when ducks are present or manure juice is added (thanks to fertilizing elements already present in the water)

===Production and rationing for poultry farming===

====Average azolla productivity====

*In normal period: 250 g/m²/day
*In winter: about half less
*To compensate for the winter drop, he uses a transparent [[plastic tarp]] to cover the pond, which increases water temperature and speeds up azolla production. Cost of transparent tarp: 200 MAD for the entire surface.

====Azolla ration in hen feed====
Adil distributes two meals per day to his poultry (morning and evening):
[[File:Adil Dach Mélange azolla et grain dans un panier. .jpg|thumbnail|300x300px|Mix of azolla and grain in a basket.]]
Each ration consists of:

*3.5 kg of a grain mix
*1 kg of fresh azolla (freshly harvested)

'''Total daily feed: 9 kg''' (7 kg of grains, 2 kg of fresh azolla).

'''Grain mix:'''
{| class="wikitable"
|Component
|Percentage
|-
|[[Corn]]
|52.63 %
|-
|[[Wheat]]
|15.79 %
|-
|[[:Category:Barley|Barley]]
|5.26 %
|-
|[[Sunflower]]
|10.53 %
|-
|Wheat bran
|10.53 %
|-
|Total
|100 %
|}

'''Note'''
*[[File:Adile Dach récolte azolla petit bassin .jpg|thumbnail|Hand harvesting azolla in one of the small ponds |350x350px]]Azolla harvesting is quick, maximum 5 minutes in their case, and can be done by hand or with a net.
*The mix, done manually in a large plastic basket, is given immediately to the hens.

*For all hens and turkeys (rooster, hens, and chicks included) this represents on average 90% grain and 10% azolla.
*Grain is purchased from a local seller.

===Pond maintenance===
Azolla pond maintenance includes several occasional or regular operations:

====1. Repairs====

*Pond tarp leaks: One of the ponds recently had a hole in the tarp, requiring repair. This is one of the main technical hazards related to cultivation in tarped ponds.
*Structural problems: The central pillars supporting the greenhouse arches can fall due to [[wind]], as they are not anchored in the ground. This requires regular repositioning.

====2. Regular maintenance====

*About once a month, water must be added to the ponds to maintain a constant level due to natural evaporation or absorption by Azolla.

===Advice for setting up an azolla culture pond===
Based on his experience, Adil shares several practical recommendations to improve pond installation and their environment:

'''1. Structure height:''' "If I had to do it again, I would make the structure taller." He points out that a structure too low forces bending at each harvest, making the work physically tiring in the long term.

'''2. Tarp quality:''' He recommends investing in a quality tarp, especially geomembrane type, to avoid leaks in the ponds. The cheap tarps used in his installation proved fragile and require repairs.

'''3. Pond dimensions:''' He is satisfied with the current pond dimensions, which suit the desired production well.

======Overall improvement idea for the structure:======
He imagines a new '''more functional design''':

*A larger and wider greenhouse (12 m wide)
*A central aisle to facilitate circulation and harvesting
*Ponds placed on each side of the aisle
*Duck henhouse directly adjacent, to facilitate access to ponds and integration of their droppings into the ponds for fertilization.
*Install nursery culture tables above the azolla ponds to set up a small nursery above the ponds.

==Photo gallery of Mouzouna Farm==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=112}}

==Sources==
Interview with Adil Dach conducted in 2025.{{Partenariat Urbane}}

{{Pages liées}}
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Ferme Mouzouna]]
[[ar:مزرعة موزونة]]

Said Akkif Farm

2026-06-19T15:57:00Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Said Akkif Farm
| Sous-titre=Production of aromatic and medicinal plants
| Bannière=Said_Akkif_photo_banniere_recadree 1.jpg
| Département=Morocco
| Adresse=Had El Brachoua, Morocco
| Coordonnées GPS=33.67711, -6.63865
| SAU=5 ha
| UTH=4.5
| Description de sol=loamy
| Type de production=Mixed farming-livestock
| Cultures=Oregano@ Onion@ Tomato@ Lemon balm@ Mint@ Sage@ Geranium@ Argan tree@ Olive tree@ Fig tree@ Marigold@ Wheat@ Lavender@ Mizuna@ Basil@ Passionflower@ Marigold (Tagetes)@ Spinach@ Chickpea@ Broad bean@ Coriander@ Cardoon
| Autres caractéristiques=Agroecology@ Non-irrigated system
| Titre court=Said Akkif Farm
| Objectif=Water management
| Organisme=Structure: National Center for Agroecology
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Water management, production of aromatic and medicinal plants
}}
Said Akkif, a farmer in Had El Brachoua, Morocco, cultivates his land and raises his animals according to the principles of agroecology. Here is a portrait of his farm.

==Context==

===The farm===

*'''Farmer's name:''' Said Akkif
*'''Farm name:''' Said Akkif Farm
*'''Location:''' Had El Brachoua, Morocco
*'''Date of [[installation]]:'''
*'''Cultivated area:''' 4 ha.
*'''Soil texture:''' [[Loamy]]
*'''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]]) :''' 4.5 (0.5 for occasional labor)
*'''Altitude:''' 398 m
*'''Climate:''' According to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, Rabat has a [[Mediterranean]] climate with hot summers (Csa). Temperatures generally range between 13 °C and 24 °C throughout the year, with extremes rarely dropping to 5 °C or rising to 39 °C. Average annual precipitation is about 383 mm, spread over 52 rainy days per year.

=== Labor ===

* The farm operates as a '''family cooperative'''.
* '''Four people work there''': two women and their two husbands, who are brothers.
* They also occasionally hire workers, paid per task.
[[File:Culture d'Armoise Saïd Akkif.jpg|thumbnail|237x237px|Cultivation of Tree Mugwort for infusion production]]

=== Marketing ===

* '''Packaging:''' All herbal teas (lemon balm, marigold, [[poppy]] or blends) are sold in 25-gram sachets. For lemon balm, this represents 7 MAD (for a 25g sachet).
* '''Channels:''' Products are sold in parapharmacies, a small quantity is sold at Carrefour, as well as in the markets of Rabat, Kenitra, and Casablanca.
* He previously sold through a basket system but the lack of water no longer allows him to ensure vegetable production.
[[File:Said Akkif - Culture de plan aromatique sous serre.jpg|thumbnail|340x340px|Aromatic plant cultivation under greenhouse]]

=== Plant production ===
Said Akkif's farm is divided into 5 plots:

* '''[[Market gardening]]''' : on 2 ha

* '''Orchard of [[Horticulture - Aromatic and medicinal plants|aromatic and medicinal plants]]''' ([[PPAM]]) : on 1 ha
* '''Camelina''' : on 2 ha
* '''[[Barley]] :''' on 1 ha
* '''Fallow''' : on 1 ha
* He also has several greenhouses (cold tunnel type) with shade netting (surface area not specified)

=== Animal production ===
They raise between '''100 and 200 chickens''', about '''ten rabbits''', approximately '''10 to 12 sheep''', '''three cows with their calves, and a donkey'''.

=== Education, training and life path ===
* Said comes from a family of farmers. He worked in hospitality before returning to farming.

=== Farm history ===

* The family lands have been '''in melk''' ownership for 400 to 500 years. Originally, the family owned '''several thousand hectares''', but successive inheritances have reduced the area to five hectares today.
* He inherited the land in 1992 and farmed it using '''conventional agriculture''' until 1996. At that time, he produced more than 1,000 quintals on 60 to 70 hectares, with an average of '''25 to 30 quintals per hectare''', using mechanized agriculture.
* In 1997, he began to question '''the use of chemical products''', testing '''mint beds''' grown only with manure. His first organic harvest was sold entirely, and although sales slowed afterward, customers appreciated his commitment to chemical-free production.
* In 2005-2006, he was hired as '''manager of a bull breeding farm''' located near his home. He then continued his career in hospitality while managing the farm remotely.
* In 2015, he met '''Sena''', an urbanite who proposed a commercial partnership around the sale of herbal teas. This collaboration further oriented him towards '''organic farming''' and encouraged him to develop '''[[:Category:Crops|herbal tea and seed crops]]''', which consume less water and are more economically promising. Until then, he mainly grew vegetables and [[Category:Barley|barley]], but then diversified his production with '''an orchard and a wide range of aromatic and medicinal plants.'''
* Since the drying up of his traditional well, 3 years ago, located at 20 meters deep, he can only cultivate '''20% of his market gardening area.''' This well is now insufficient, while the neighbor's well already reaches 200 meters and another neighboring farm has drilled about a hundred wells between 120 and 200 meters. He is currently awaiting authorization to '''dig a new well.'''

'''Note:''' The soil is [[:Category:Loamy|loamy]] on the orchard plot containing the PPAM, while the other plots (market gardening, barley, camelina, and fallow) rest on [[clay]] soil; all plots have a record organic matter content for Morocco of 3.9%.

==Practices of interest==

=== Artisanal Dryer ===

==== Context ====
[[File:Séchoir artisanal Saïd Akkif (1).png|thumbnail|The artisanal dryer]]
For the '''drying of flowers''' (calendula, [[:Category:Poppy|poppy]]…), Said designed and had manufactured an artisanal dryer adapted to herbal tea production: simple, robust, and financially accessible.

==== Objectives ====
* Have an '''efficient tool''' for homogeneous drying of medicinal plants.
* Reduce dependence on '''climatic conditions''' (rain, humidity).
* Ensure better '''quality''' of the finished product.

==== Steps implemented ====
* Design of the plan by the farmer himself
* Manufacturing carried out by two artisans: carpenter (2–3 h of work) and blacksmith (2–3 h as well)
* Total delay: 1.5 months to receive the tool (high demand from artisans)

==== Techno-economic results ====
* '''Initial cost''' (before COVID): ~1,000 DH (500 DH for wood, 300 DH for welding iron, and the rest for labor and small materials)
* '''Estimated cost today''': ~2,000 DH (inflation).
* '''Dimensions''': 2 m (h) × 80 cm (d) × 160 cm (w).
* '''Reliability''': functional tool, meets current needs.

==== Environmental results ====
* '''Zero energy consumption''' (natural drying).
* '''Potential reduction of post-harvest losses''' thanks to more secure drying (less risk of mold).

==== Keys to success ====
* Simple design adapted to real needs.
* Quick mobilization of skilled artisans (carpenter + blacksmith).
* Robust structure allowing durable use.

==== Points of caution ====
* Potentially long manufacturing time (artisans very busy).
* Manufacturing cost sensitive to material price fluctuations.
* Need to anticipate implementation before first harvests.

==== Assessment ====
The artisanal dryer is an affordable and effective solution to secure the quality of flowers intended for herbal teas. It represents a '''relatively low investment for a significant benefit''' in terms of [[valorization]]. The current model remains sufficient, although a larger version would be desirable with more resources.

=== Production of dried poppy and calendula flowers ===

==== Context ====
'''Poppy''' and '''calendula''' are grown for herbal tea production using the artisanal dryer. These two flowers require very little water and benefit from a simple cultivation itinerary. They are planted in 25 m rows with 40 cm spacing between plants.

==== Objectives ====
* Produce '''dried flowers''' intended for '''[[direct sale]]'''.
* '''Stagger sowing and planting''' to ensure a regular harvest.
* Reduce '''water needs''' thanks to adapted species.

==== Steps implemented ====
* '''Sowing''': done on seedbeds, staggered every 15 days to spread production.
* '''Planting''': from February, in 25 m rows, 40 cm spacing, with a staggered schedule every 15 days.
* '''Harvest''': between March and May, every morning. Harvest window of 10 to 15 days per cycle. Duration: 1 to 2 h depending on volume.
* '''Drying''': flowers placed in an artisanal dryer, one tray per species, well spread out to avoid overlapping (5 to 10 min/tray).
* '''Storage''': in 30 L containers (20 DH/unit), maximum shelf life of one year.

==== Techno-economic results ====
* '''Work''':
** Planting a row (25 m): '''~1h30/person'''.
** Harvest: '''1–2 h''' per cycle.
** Drying: '''5–10 min/tray'''.
* '''Investments''':
** '''Artisanal dryer''' (≈ 2,000 DH today, see above).
** '''30 L containers''': 20 DH/unit.
* '''Shelf life''': maximum 1 year (loss of taste and value beyond).

==== Environmental results ====
* '''Very low water needs''' → adapted to [[drought]] contexts.
* Limited use of '''inputs''' (manure only, 2 kg/year).
* '''Natural drying''' in an artisanal dryer → low energy footprint.

==== Keys to success ====
* Rigorous organization of '''staggered sowings''' for regular production.
* '''Daily morning harvest''', at the right time.
* '''Controlled drying''' (flowers well spread in the dryer).

==== Points of caution ====
* Short harvest window (10–15 days).
* Loss of quality and value after one year of storage.
* Need to handle flowers carefully to avoid crushing.

==== Assessment ====
Poppy and calendula cultivation is '''simple''', '''adapted to dry conditions''', and requires '''few inputs'''. The main constraint remains managing the harvest schedule, which must be precise to ensure quality. Drying and storage are key steps to preserve the value of the flowers.

=== Production of dried lemon balm leaves ===

==== Context ====
[[File:Séchage artisanal sur fil Saïd Akkif.png|thumbnail|Drying on string of aromatic bouquet]]
'''Lemon balm''' is a '''perennial plant''' grown for its '''aromatic leaves''', used by Said Akkif for infusion production. It is planted on a 300 m² area, with a simple itinerary based on an '''annual manure application''' and an '''artisanal drying''' method: bouquets are hung on strings outside the dryer. The cultivation mainly takes place in open field but can also be conducted under tropical greenhouse with shade netting, allowing mid-season production and extension of the growing cycle.

==== Objectives ====
* Produce dried lemon balm for '''direct sale'''.
* '''Spread the harvest from May to September''' (or up to ten months under greenhouse).
* Maintain a '''viable production despite drought''' and '''high heat'''.

==== Steps implemented ====
* '''Sowing''': winter, under greenhouse, alveolar trays with 77 plants; regular [[irrigation]].
* '''Transplanting''': from March, in open field, every two weeks.
* '''Maintenance''': 2 kg manure/year, irrigation adapted to climate.
* '''Harvest''': monthly, from May to September (4–5 harvests/year).
* '''Drying''': bouquets hung in open air, 1–2 weeks depending on weather.
* '''Packaging''': sorting, shaping, packaging in 25 g sachets.

==== Techno-economic results ====
* '''Yield''': ~20 kg dry leaves/300 m².
* '''Work time:'''
** Sowing: 10 min/tray.
** Planting: 1h30/row (25 meters long).
** Harvest: 1 day/300 m².
** Packaging and sorting: 5 h/cycle.
* '''Price:''' 0.70 dirham/g (discount for large lots).
* '''Sale:''' direct, or in supermarkets packaged in 25 g sachets.

==== Environmental results ====
* Limited inputs (manure only).
* Reasoned but unmeasured irrigation.
* Roots left in place → soil preservation.
* Natural drying → no energy consumption.

==== Keys to success ====
* Good moisture monitoring at sowing.
* Rigorous organization of staggered plantings.
* Tropical greenhouse with shade netting extending the season.
* Direct sale, better product valorization.

==== Points of caution ====
* Plant fragile to heat and drought.
* Dependence on unpredictable rainfall (due to lack of sufficiently deep well).

==== Assessment ====
'''Crop adapted to small areas and direct sale.''' Simple technique but demanding in regularity. Production '''profitable if water conditions are sufficient''', but very vulnerable to prolonged droughts.

=== Table written by Said Akkif for the infusion production he markets ===
{| class="wikitable"
!Blend (total weight)
!Plants used
!Quantity per plant
|-
|'''Herbal tea for stress (45 g)'''
|Chinese agrimony
|12 g
|-
|
|[[Melilotus]] (officinal)
|13 g
|-
|
|[[Lavender]]
|10 g
|-
|
|Chamomile
|10 g
|-
|'''Herbal tea for anemia (40 g)'''
|[[Nettle]]
|12 g
|-
|
|[[Fennel]]
|8 g
|-
|
|[[Parsley]]
|10 g
|-
|
|[[Peppermint]]
|10 g
|-
|'''Herbal tea to relieve flu symptoms (40 g)'''
|Hyssop
|8 g
|-
|
|Ajuga (bugle/ajuga orientalis)
|8 g
|-
|
|Marigold flower (calendula)
|8 g
|-
|
|[[Sage]]
|8 g
|-
|
|[[Rosemary]]
|8 g
|-
|'''Herbal tea for sleep disorders (45 g)'''
|California poppy
|15 g
|-
|
|Peppermint
|10 g
|-
|
|Verbena
|10 g
|-
|
|[[Lemongrass]]
|10 g
|}
'''Note''': The blends presented above come from a '''farmer's testimony''' collected during the field survey. They reflect local practices and empirical knowledge but should not be considered medical recommendations.

==Photo gallery of Said Akkif's farm==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=114}}

== Sources ==
Interview with Said Akkif conducted in 2025.{{Partenariat Urbane}}

{{Pages liées}}
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Ferme de Saïd Akkif]]
[[ar:مزرعة سعيد عكيف]]

Ard Al Khayrat Farm

2026-06-19T15:56:09Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Ferme Ard Al Khayrat
| Sous-titre=Mixed farming and livestock farm
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Anouar Khales Slaoui
| Bannière=Anouar Khales Slaoui Photo bannière .jpg
| Photo de l'agriculteur=Anouar Khales Slaoui Photo agriculteur.jpg
| Département=Morocco
| Adresse=Mqam Tolba, Morocco
| Coordonnées GPS=33.89595, -6.32074
| SAU=2.6
| UTH=1.5
| Texture du sol=Sandy clay
| Type de production=Mixed farming and livestock
| Cultures=Olive@ Tomato@ Vine@ Corn@ Orange@ Pepper
| Titre court=Farm with vermicomposter
| Objectif=Soil regeneration
| Organisme=Structure:National Center for Agroecology
| Date de mise en œuvre=2021
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Vermicomposter, Agroforestry, Arboriculture, Crop associations
}}
Anouar Khales Slaoui, a farmer in M’qam Tolba, Morocco, cultivates his land and raises his animals according to agroecology principles. Here is a portrait of his farm.

==Context==

===The farm===

* '''Farmer's name:''' Anouar Khales Slaoui
* '''Farm name:''' Ferme Ard Al Khayrat (“The land of blessings” in Darija)
* '''Location:''' M’qam Tolba, Rabat region (33.89595, -6.32074)
* '''Establishment date:''' 2021
* '''Cultivated area:''' 2.6 ha (≈ 1.3 ha [[market gardening]] + 1.3 ha orchards)
* '''Soil texture:''' Not specified (but suitable for market gardening, olive trees, citrus, [[:Category:Vine|vine]])
* '''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]]) :''' 1 permanent + 3 occasional seasonal workers + involvement of the project leader
* '''Altitude:''' Not specified
* '''Climate:''' According to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, Rabat has a [[Mediterranean climate]] with hot summers (Csa). Temperatures generally range between 13 °C and 24 °C throughout the year, with extremes rarely dropping to 5 °C or rising to 39 °C. Average annual rainfall reaches about 383 mm, spread over 52 rainy days per year.

===Labor===

*'''1 full-time permanent worker'''
*'''3 occasional seasonal workers''', mainly mobilized during planting (market gardening, fruit trees, edible forest).
*'''Anouar Khales Slaoui''' himself is involved on weekends and holidays, alongside his main profession as an engineer.
[[File:Anouar Khales Slaoui Bloc maraîchage.png|thumbnail|302x302px|Example of an agroforestry garden block]]

===Plant productions===

*'''Market gardening''': The market gardening area covers about '''1 ha''', organized into 80 beds of 20 m² each (20 m long × 1 m wide). The beds are grouped into blocks of 8.5 m × 20 m (170 m²). Each block is bordered by two rows of [[fruit trees]] and support trees, integrating market gardening into an agroforestry logic by promoting biodiversity, wind protection, and biomass production useful for mulching.
*'''Olive trees''': 80–90 trees on ~795 m² (spacing ~9 m²/tree).
*'''Citrus trees''': 80 trees on ~1,000 m²

* '''[[:Category:Vine|Vine]]''' : 300 vines, 5 varieties, on ~1,800 m² (6 m²/vine).

[[File:Anouar Khales Slaoui Association de culture.jpg|thumbnail|Market gardening between rows of trees]]'''Crop associations''': [[pepper]]–[[corn]] (staggered sowing, corn providing shade to peppers → reducing evapotranspiration and producing more resilient foliage).

===Animal productions===

*'''Chicken coop''': ~2,500 m².
*'''Stock''': 67 hens and 13 turkeys.

*[[Livestock]] started with 7–8 hens, gradually expanded.

== Motivation and objective ==

*'''Family self-consumption''': produce organic fruits and vegetables to feed his family.
*'''Progressive structuring''': transform a secondary plot into a productive agroecological farm.
*'''Experimentation''': test innovative practices such as the filtering pond and vermicomposting.
*'''[[Knowledge sharing]] and cooperation''': exchange with other farmers (via WhatsApp, local network) and consider creating a cooperative to pool sales and equipment.
*'''[[Diversification]]''': develop market gardening, [[arboriculture]], livestock, and ecological infrastructures.

==Agronomic aspect==

===Market gardening, arboriculture and crop associations===

*The '''market gardening''' gradually occupies nearly one hectare, organized into '''80 beds of 20 m²''' each. Soil work is done with a broadfork and [[weeding]] is manual, complemented by '''cutting weeds''' used as mulch to protect the [[:Category:Crops|crops]].

*'''Arboriculture''' is diversified: about '''80–90 olive trees''' (795 m²), '''80 citrus trees''' (1,000 m²), and '''300 vines''' of five varieties (1,800 m²). These plantations, aged 8 to 9 years, were already present when the land was acquired.

*Anouar also experiments with '''crop associations''', notably '''[[:Category:Pepper|pepper]]–corn''': peppers are transplanted between the 5th and 8th week after sowing, then shaded by corn sown two weeks later. This system improves pepper resistance, promotes denser foliage, and reduces '''evapotranspiration''', thus contributing to better [[water management]].

===Water management===
The farm is fully equipped with '''drip irrigation''', financed by Anouar without external aid. Water comes from a '''traditional well deepened to 32 m''', ensuring sufficient volume for all crops.

*'''[[Hedges]]''': self-regulating drippers spaced 40 cm apart, flow rate 8 L/h.
*'''Olive trees''': pipes with drippers manually inserted according to tree spacing.
*'''Market gardening''': drippers at 10 cm, flow rate from 0.55 L/h (0.8 bar) up to 1.2 L/h (2 bars).

The '''PVC pipes''' are buried 20 cm deep to protect the network, and the whole system is controlled by an '''electronic console''' (3,500 MAD).

==Practices of interest==

===Vermicomposting===

====Objectives====
[[File:Anouar Khales Slaoui Lombricompost.jpg|thumbnail|Vermicompost with basin for collecting worm tea underneath]]
Vermicomposting was implemented with the aim of '''fertility autonomy''' and [[valorization]] of organic waste. Inspired by videos on the Internet, Anouar wanted to test a practice still rare in the Moroccan context, to produce a rich [[compost]], improve soil fertility, and benefit from '''vermicompost tea (worm tea)''', used as a foliar fertilizer with rapid effect.

====Implementation====

*'''Setup''': 2 bathtubs elevated on metal frames (1.5 m × 2 m), perforated and equipped with filters (1 mm mesh)
*'''Introduction of worms''': 4,000 ''Eisenia fetida'' + 4,000 Red Wigglers for a total cost of 4,000 MAD
*'''Management''':
**addition of fresh manure, organic waste (banana, eggshells, foliage) on one side only → worm migration
**weekly watering
**addition of ice blocks in summer to limit mortality

*'''Expected production''' :
**compost: ~0.5 m³ every 3 months
**worm tea: ~5 L/week in summer

====Results====
Every three months, Anouar harvests about '''0.5 m³ of compost'''. The system also produces about '''5 liters of worm tea per week in summer''', used diluted at 10% in foliar spraying (16 L backpack sprayer, cost 300–350 MAD). Results are quickly visible: on mint, for example, foliage becomes greener and more vigorous within 3–4 days after application.

Vermicomposting thus allows the farm to improve its fertility autonomously and experiment with an innovative practice still marginal in the region. Limitations lie in the '''sensitivity of the system to heat''' and the need for careful monitoring to maintain production.

===Filtering pond===

====Objectives====
[[File:Anouar Khales Slaoui Marre.jpg|thumbnail|361x361px|The pond]]
The filtering pond was conceived by Anouar as a response to two major challenges: the '''scarcity of fresh water''' in his region and the need to strengthen '''functional biodiversity''' on his farm. It was intended to serve as a water point for birds, dragonflies, and beneficial insects, while helping regulate mosquito populations. The goal was both ecological (create a humid micro-ecosystem) and practical (reduce mosquito nuisance).

====Explanation====

======General functioning======
The pond consists of '''two parts at different levels''': a higher zone and a lower zone. Water circulates continuously between these two compartments thanks to a pump.

The bottom is covered with a '''watertight geomembrane''', preventing water loss. '''Gravel pits''' installed in the upper part act as natural filters. This cycle maintains clear, well-oxygenated water while creating a favorable ecosystem for aquatic plants, fish, and beneficial organisms.[[File:Anouar Khales Slaoui schéma coupe transversal du bassin.png|thumbnail|520x520px|Cross-section of the pond with pumping circuit]]

======Water cycle in the filtering pond======
'''1. Infiltration into the gravel''' Water from the pond enters a pit filled with gravel. The gravel acts as a natural filter by retaining solid particles and hosting useful microorganisms.

'''2. Suction through the PVC pipe''' A perforated pipe placed in the pit allows filtered water to enter while preventing gravel from entering the system.

'''3. Water pumping''' The pump draws this clear water from the PVC pipe. It then directs it to an external pipe allowing it to rise.

'''4. Return to the pond''' The pumped water is re-injected into the basin. This movement prevents stagnation, improves oxygenation, and promotes aquatic life.

'''5. Continuous filtration''' The cycle repeats continuously: water circulates, clarifies through the gravel, then returns to the pond.

The system thus combines '''mechanical filtration''' (gravel) and '''biological filtration''' ([[bacteria]] and microfauna).

====Implementation====

*'''Installation date''': September 2023[[File:Anouar khales Slaoui creusement de la mare.jpg|thumbnail|The pond is dug using shovel and hoe.]]
*'''Work''': Manual excavation by 3 workers in 2 days (≈ 4 m × 2 m, depth 80 cm, capacity ~4 m³)
*'''Sealing''': geomembrane (38 MAD/m²)
*'''Equipment''':
**Aquaflor pump (22,000 L/h, 3,500 MAD)
**natural filtration system (gravel)
**a monitoring unit was installed, connected to an air pump (aerator) purchased for 100 to 150 dirhams.
*'''Biological arrangements''':
**lotus planting (100 MAD/plant)
**introduction of koi carp (30–50 MAD each)
**peripheral ornamental vegetation
**The stones used for the pond edges come half from the farm (including 25% donated by a neighboring farm) and half from a purchase made in Tifelt.
**The total cost of these stones is about 1300 dirhams, including transport.

====Results====
In one year, Anouar observes a '''marked increase in biodiversity''': birds, dragonflies, bees, and various insects come to drink there. The most visible effect has been an '''80% reduction in mosquitoes''', an unexpected but much appreciated benefit. The pond is thus a successful local innovation, although its effect on crop [[pests]] (such as olive tree pests) remains limited. It mainly serves as a '''biodiversity reservoir''' and a regulatory space in the farm ecosystem.

==Photo gallery of Mama Ghaïa farm==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=118}}

== Sources ==
Interview with Anouar Khales Slaoui conducted in 2025.{{Partenariat Urbane}}

{{Pages liées}}
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Ferme Ard Al Khayrat]]
[[ar:مزرعة أرض الخيرات]]

Taoufik Oualmadou Farm

2026-06-19T15:55:26Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Toufik Oualmadou Farm
| Sous-titre=Farm with orchard-vegetable garden and food forest.
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Toufik Oualmadou
| Bannière=Taoufik Oualmadou Baniere 4.jpeg
| Photo de l'agriculteur=Taoufik Oualmadou, photo agriculteur.jpg
| Département=Morocco
| Adresse=Tiflet, Morocco
| Coordonnées GPS=33.84502, -6.28474
| SAU=4
| UTH=1.75
| Texture du sol=Loamy
| Type de production=Arboriculture, vegetable growing
| Cultures=fig tree@ Tomato@ strawberry@ olive tree@ Prickly pear cactus@ Onion@ Peach@ Eggplant@ Lettuce
| Autres caractéristiques=Soil biological activity@ Regenerative agriculture@ Agroforestry
| Titre court=Toufik Oualmadou Farm
| Objectif=Soil regeneration
| Organisme=Structure:National Center for Agroecology
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
}}
Toufik Majjaoui, a farmer in Tiflet, Morocco, cultivates his land according to agroecology principles. Here is a portrait of his farm.

==Context==

===The farm===
*'''Farmer's name:''' Toufik Majjaoui
*'''Farm name:''' Toufik Majjaoui Farm
*'''Location:''' Tiflet, Morocco
*'''Date of [[installation]]:''' 2021
*'''Cultivated area:''' 4 ha.
*'''Soil texture:''' Loamy-[[Clayey]]
*'''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]]):''' 1.75
*'''Climate:''' According to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, Rabat has a [[Mediterranean climate]] with hot summers (Csa). Temperatures generally range between 13 °C and 24 °C throughout the year, with extremes rarely dropping to 5 °C or rising to 39 °C. Average annual rainfall is about 383 mm, spread over 52 rainy days per year.

===Labor and conditions===

*1 full-time worker and 1 three-quarter time worker.
*A non-specialized worker is paid 100 dirhams per day. A worker with agricultural skills is paid 120 dirhams. This motivates them and encourages them to return to work on the farm.

===Marketing===
In 2024, he marketed '''about ten baskets per week''' to close friends, as well as to two restaurants. This marketing test was then paused; he hopes to restart it in July 2025.

===Plant production===
[[File:Taoufik Oualmadou culture de tomate .jpg|thumbnail|Onion cultivation on the first bed, eggplant on the second, and tomato behind]]

*'''1.5 hectares''' '''arranged as a food forest''' with [[Swale|swale]], combining fruit [[trees]] with support trees chosen for their ability to produce biomass or improve soil quality (notably nitrogen-fixing species like some [[Fabaceae]]). This system aims to promote natural soil regeneration while diversifying production.

*'''1 hectare organized''' in '''cultivation beds,''' integrated with '''rows of support trees'''. These trees play a key role in the microclimate and [[soil fertility]]. The [[:Category:Crops|crops]] follow the same layout as in the [[Mama Ghaïa Farm]].

===Study, training and life path===
Toufik Oualmadou has always been passionate about nature. During the '''COVID-19 lockdown''', he realized his deep desire to '''have a piece of nature of his own''' and to '''be able to feed his family.''' It was at that time, in 2021, that he bought the land, a few months after the lockdown ended. Toufik Oualmadou is a banker but visits his garden 2 to 3 times a week to ensure everything is going well.

===Farm history===
[[File:Taoufik Oualmadou horizon du sol .jpg|thumbnail|Excavation work is visible along the edges on both sides of the land on the northern half of the plot.]]
The land has a particular feature: '''excavation work was done''' about thirty years ago during the construction of a road to recover stones. This work deeply altered the land profile, so much so that the plot is at least 3 meters lower than neighboring plots. The land was then left fallow, invaded by vegetation, notably cacti.

When Toufik took over the plot, he had to spend three to four days uprooting the cacti. He chose to remove them because they did not bring any particular benefit to the system: they were neither edible nor useful for mulching, took up a lot of space, and did not fix nitrogen.

==Motivations and objective==

*The '''main objective''' of his farm is to '''feed his family and have a natural space of his own''', marketing is secondary for him.

*In the long term, he also wishes to '''develop his own nursery''' to '''gain autonomy''' in seedlings, and '''open the farm to the public''' through '''workshops and educational visits.'''

==Agronomic aspect==

===Farming practice===

====Water management====

*The farm operates with '''a well and a reservoir'''. The reservoir has a volume of 950 m³, with dimensions of 20 x 15 x 3 meters.
*A problem occurred with the well: Toufik had requested a depth of 120 meters, but the well only reached 100 meters. Not being able to be present on site, the instructions were not followed, and he now suffers the consequences, with a water shortage.

====Hedge on the west side====

*'''A [[hedge]] of pyracantha''' was planted on the west side of the land, every 40 cm, in a continuous trench. Planting time: about two days over 1200 linear meters.
*A second hedge line, planted behind the first, combines shrubs and taller [[size]] trees to create a canopy with varied heights, conducive to morning dew condensation. The second row mainly consists of so-called 'support' trees, chosen for their ability to produce biomass, fix nitrogen, and host certain companion plants. For its installation, holes of 50 × 50 × 50 cm were dug every two meters. Planting time: at least six days of work for two people over 1200 linear meters, although the work was done progressively.
[[File:Taoufik Oualmadou, Haie de figuier de Barbarie.jpg|thumbnail|Prickly pear cactus hedge with a drip line at the base.]]

====Prickly pear cactus hedge====
On the south fence of his plot, in place of the old cacti, he replanted, at the back of the plot and at the bottom of the swales, '''prickly pear cacti'''. These form an effective hedge against livestock and intrusions, produce nectar appreciated by bees, and their fruits have regained strong market value.

'''Note''' Since the spread of the cochineal insect on the [[prickly pear cactus]] in Morocco, prickly pear populations have greatly decreased. This fruit, once very common and sold for less than 1 dirham each, now sells for about 5 dirhams. A friend of Toufik even exports it abroad at a price of 6 euros per kilo.

====Management of prickly pear cochineal====

*To fight against '''cochineal on prickly pear cactus''', he uses two methods:
**Direct spraying of foliage with a water jet to mechanically dislodge the pests.
**A preparation made from 1 liter of water, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and a small handful of black soap, sprayed on the foliage.

=Practices of interest=

===Swale and food forest on sloping land===

====Context====
The land has a marked slope, exposed to significant erosion risk, especially during intense storm events. The challenge is to design an agricultural layout that limits this risk while maintaining production capacity.

====Objective====
'''Enhance sloping land''' by '''planting trees''', following an agroecological approach. This choice not only reduces erosion but also promotes water storage, maintains better soil moisture, and stabilizes the land structure, while developing sustainable production.

====Topographic arrangements and [[Swale|swales]]====

*To redevelop the land, Toufik worked with a '''survey engineer'''.
[[File:Taoufik Oualmadou Baissière .jpg|thumbnail|Swale viewed from the top of the slope]]The engineer marked contour lines by planting sticks at regular 1-meter intervals (the more precise, the more horizontal the contour line). On average, there was a one-meter elevation difference between each line, corresponding to about 6 meters horizontal spacing (80% respect this spacing). Sometimes, this spacing varied according to the land profile.
*The '''swales (or [[Swale|swales]])''' were dug using an excavator, initially 1 meter deep. Over time, they have compacted and some now only reach 50 cm depth. The '''earthworks''' lasted two and a half days. They allowed the creation of a total of 1800 linear meters of swales, i.e., 12 or 13 lines of about 150 meters each.

'''Note''' He recommends digging as deep as possible from the start, as part of the volume will naturally fill in.

=====Costs and resources mobilized=====
*The '''excavator rental cost 2000 dirhams per day''' at the time, with fuel priced at 17 dirhams per liter. Today, a tractor with operator '''would cost between 1300 and 1500 dirhams per day.''' Besides the operator (usually included in the rental), a worker is needed to assist with maneuvers.

*'''The surveyor's work,''' which took three days, was not charged: the engineer was a family member of Toufik, and Toufik was able to barter fencing for the service. Normally, this service would have cost about '''3000 dirhams.'''

*The swales were completed on February 22, 2023, but were not yet accompanied by plantings.

====Swale planting====
The '''tree planting''' took place in February 2025 and finished in April 2025. It was delayed to allow full installation of the [[irrigation]] system.

Plant positioning follows several logics:

*At the top of the slope: trees more demanding in water and maintenance, benefiting from deeper soil (up to 2–3 meters) and higher water pressure;
*At the bottom of the slope: trees more drought-resistant, shallow soil (bedrock at 45 cm), lower water pressure.

=====Labor mobilized=====

*Planting of swale trees, following contour lines, took 10 days for two people (including support and fruit trees); it was also done progressively.
*However, herbaceous plants are not yet planted; notably [https://www.gerbeaud.com/jardin/fiches/tithonia,2911.html Tithonia] still needs to be installed.
[[File:Taoufik Oualmadou, deux lignes de goutte à goutte sur la baissière. .jpg|thumbnail|Two drip lines on the swale mound located downstream of the ditch.]]

====Water management====

*'''Irrigation''' is ensured by a '''drip irrigation system''', with 9 electronic valves allowing remote management.

*Frequency varies with climate: every two or three days in hot periods, otherwise once every 10 days.
*Each irrigation lasts about 45 minutes, and each dripper delivers 8 liters of water per hour. For swale trees, two lines of drippers are installed.

====Fertilization====
In the swales, each tree receives on average 2.5 kg of manure. Support trees also improve soil fertility by producing biomass that can be returned to the soil through occasional pruning.

'''Note''' The manure used comes from a neighbor who raises sheep without chemicals or vaccines. One ton costs 400 dirhams.

===Result===

*The benefits of the [[swale]] are already visible; erosion is seen on the path but '''absent in the swales'''.
*It is also observed that the soil in the swale mound is '''more moist''' despite the heat.
*Toufik also explains that he has seen '''water being stored''' in the swale trenches after heavy storms.

'''Note from Jihad El Malih''', agroecology advisor: “It is from the seventh year that swales fully reveal their benefits. Tree roots, now well developed, access a larger water stock in the soil. The canopy in turn protects the swale, thus limiting evapotranspiration. Moreover, swales contribute to groundwater recharge, significantly reducing irrigation needs: even in Morocco, only supplementary irrigation remains necessary.”

====Toufik's advice====

*For swale installation, plan well in advance and do not rush because the setup will last many years and will be difficult to modify.
*Also consider alternatives to prevent water from running straight down paths between swales. According to Toufik, there are two solutions: small V-shaped trenches on the path to divert water sideways, or making a path that is not straight between swale lines.

===Protection of strawberry beds with metal mesh===

====Context====
The producer noticed that fine mesh nets, usually used to protect tomato crops against thrips, were not suitable for strawberries. Indeed, these nets block a significant amount of light and prevent access to [[pollinators]], essential for good strawberry fruiting. Faced with this constraint, he sought an alternative solution with his agricultural advisor, Jihad El Malih, who suggested a metal mesh tunnel system.
[[File:Taoufik Oualmadou Grillage des fraisiers. .jpg|thumbnail|Strawberry bed with metal mesh tunnel.]]

====Technical description of the innovation====
*The solution is based on installing Nantes-type tunnel hoops, spaced one meter apart, on which metal mesh is fixed.
*Each tunnel measures about 1 meter wide by 20 meters long. About a dozen hoops are used per bed.
*This system effectively protects strawberries while maintaining good ventilation, satisfactory sunlight, and free access for [[:Category:Pollinators|pollinators]].

'''Note''' According to Toufik, the mesh is flexible enough that its removal is not complicated when intervention on the bed is needed.

====Estimated setup cost per bed====

*Metal mesh: 350 dirhams
*Hoops: 150 dirhams
*'''Total''': 500 dirhams

====Toufik's advice====
No specific technical recommendation. According to him, just installing the system is enough to see the benefits.

==Photo gallery of Toufik Oualmadou's farm==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=120}}

== Sources ==
Interview with Toufik Oualmadou conducted in 2025.{{Partenariat Urbane}}
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Ferme de Taoufik Oualmadou]]
[[ar:مزرعة توفيق ولمادو]]

Hamid Majjaoui Farm

2026-06-19T15:54:37Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Maamoura Farm
| Sous-titre=Farm with market garden orchard and cereal in CA
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Hamid Majjaoui
| Bannière=Photo Baniere ferme Maamoura.jpg
| Photo de l'agriculteur=Photo Agriculteur.jpg
| Département=Morocco
| Adresse=Salé, Shoul
| Coordonnées GPS=33.89699, -6.59992
| SAU=6.25
| UTH=2
| Texture du sol=Clay
| Description de sol=Clay-limestone
| Type de production=Market gardening
| Cultures=Potato@ Tomato@ Beetroot@ Strawberry@ Peach
| Autres caractéristiques=Agroforestry@ No-till seeding under cover crop@ Organic matter@ Fertility management in market gardening@ Conservation agriculture (CA)
| Titre court=Maamoura Farm
| Objectif=Soil regeneration
| Organisme=Structure:National Center for Agroecology
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Bio-intensive market gardening, Ramial chipped wood, Orchard-Market garden
}}
Hamid Majjaoui, a farmer in Shoule, Morocco, cultivates his land according to agroecology principles. Here is the portrait of his farm.

== Context ==

=== The farm: ===

* '''Farmer's name:''' Hamid Majjaoui
* '''Farm name:''' Maamoura Farm
* '''Location:''' Salé, Shoule, Morocco
* '''Date of [[installation]]:''' 2014
* '''Cultivated area:''' 6.25 ha.
* '''Soil texture:''' Clay-Limestone
* '''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]]):''' 2.
* '''Climate:''' According to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, Rabat has a [[Mediterranean climate]] with hot summers (Csa). Temperatures generally range between 13 °C and 24 °C throughout the year, with extremes rarely dropping to 5 °C or rising to 39 °C. Average annual precipitation is about 383 mm, spread over 52 rainy days per year.

=== Workforce ===

* He works with:
** '''1 permanent worker'''. About this worker: “I am happy to have staff I trained; now it is much easier for field actions and the instructions I give him.”
** Up to '''6 daily laborers''' during peak production.
** A student who helps him on Sundays and during holidays.

=== Marketing ===

* He practices '''[[direct selling]] with a stand in Casablanca''' run by his wife and '''basket sales'''. On average 12 baskets/week.

=== Crop production ===
The crop rotation is:

* '''1.25 hectares of olive trees.'''
* '''1 hectare of [[Market garden orchard|market garden orchard]]''', notably with nectarine and peach trees. In [[market gardening]], the main [[:Category:Crops|crops]] are potato, tomato, lettuce, cabbage, pepper, beetroot, as well as bean intercropped with maize.
* '''4 hectares of [[barley]],''' with an indicative yield of 70 quintals per hectare, compared to 15 quintals per hectare on average in the region.

=== Animal production ===
Currently, he has only one [[ewe]], having stopped cow milk production as it was not profitable. He is currently considering resuming livestock to be self-sufficient in manure.

=== Education, training and life path ===
Hamid Majjaoui followed training in [[permaculture]] and no-till farming. In 2002, he acquired a 6.25-hectare plot left fallow. '''It was only in 2014''', after returning to Morocco, that he began to '''cultivate it with [[no-till seeding]].''' His goal: to verify for himself if it was really possible to cultivate without tilling the soil as he had seen in YouTube videos.

== Motivation and objective ==

* For him, this project of working with living soil was '''a challenge''', but now, '''it is time to think about passing it on'''. He plans to return to Canada for health reasons. He is therefore preparing an educational video on the technique of sunken culture beds so that these experiences are not lost.
* He would like to '''form a working group''' with a student to monitor, reference practices, and do calculations he no longer has time to do himself. He says: “When you start selling, you no longer have time for these things.”
* He emphasizes the importance of soil cover: “The soil must always be covered.”

== Agronomic aspect ==

=== Agricultural practice ===

* '''No-till seeding''' for '''cereals,''' '''no plowing.'''

* '''Crop association''', maize [[:Category:Bean|bean]].

* '''Optimization of [[irrigation]]''' in the market garden orchard thanks to localized irrigation on vegetable beds, which also benefits the root system of fruit [[trees]] planted on the edges.

* [[Valorization]] of pruning waste for '''composting and mulching'''. Self-production of ramial chipped wood ([[RCW]]) for mulching.

==== Weed management ====

* Hamid Majjaoui uses '''plastic sheets''' left for several months to reduce weeds in market gardening.
* His shrub areas are maintained by '''chop and drop,''' mowing grasses returned to the soil.
* [[Weeding]] is '''manual''', without chemicals.
* He developed a specific technique for '''cover management''' for '''maize and bean seeding'''.
* Finally, for [[grasslands]] with [[brambles]] and woody plants, he designed a '''homemade brush-cutter-mower''', used occasionally (detailed in section 4 of the agronomic aspect at the end of the article).

== Practices of interest ==

=== 1. Establishment of a crop association in a weed cover ===

==== Objective of the practice ====
Hamid was looking for a method to '''regulate weed pressure''' while maintaining a '''[[:Category:Vegetation cover|vegetation cover]] on the soil'''. His goal was to establish crops directly in this cover, without resorting to mechanized soil work or [[manual weeding]].

==== Implementation ====
[[File:Hamid Majjaoui ouvrier avec faucille.jpg|alt=Worker at Maamoura farm brushing weed cover with a sickle.|thumbnail|277x277px|Worker at Maamoura farm brushing weed cover with a sickle.]]
Hamid Majjaoui uses a '''sickle held blade towards the ground''', which he pulls towards himself while stepping backward to align the herbaceous stems of the weed cover. The grasses caught on the blade are then collected at the end of the bed and spread on the soil as mulch.

Next, he uses a '''board with a rope''' to press the grass to the ground. He steps on it to compress the vegetation, then lifts the board with the rope to advance.

* '''Estimated time''': 1 day for a 30 × 8 m bed → 50% of the time to align fibers, → 50% to press the straw.

==== Monitoring and establishment of the maize + bean crop association in the cover ====

* Seeding takes 10 minutes on a 30 × 8 m bed.

* Seed: 2 kg maize, 1 kg bean (local varieties).
[[File:Hamid Majjaoui, Ouvrier de la ferme en train d'aplatir l'herbe avec la planche .jpg|thumbnail|279x279px|Worker at Maamoura farm pressing grass with a board whose ends are tied with a string.]]

==== Irrigation ====

* He uses '''sprinklers''' to irrigate his crops on beds.
** He added sprinklers with '''a 1 m rod''' to exceed the [[:Category:Vegetation cover|vegetation cover]] at early growth (notably cereals and maize).
** On the 30 m long × 8 m wide system: he starts with 3 steps, places a [[sprinkler]] with a radius of , then 7 steps, and so on until '''4 sprinklers per bed'''.

==== Equipment cost ====

* Large model sprinkler, including metal rod: 75 dirhams.
* Hose: 1.2 dirhams/meter.

==== Result and observation ====

* '''Maize height: up to 3 m''', with three roots visible on the stem = indicator of good rooting. The ears produce grains sometimes as large as fava beans. Beans also develop and use maize stalks to climb.
* He notes that this '''method is very physical''', especially when pressing the grass with the board.
* '''Remark:''' a trial with a water-filled barrel to flatten the straw proved impractical due to the slope of the plot (pulling the barrel uphill was very hard).

=== 2. System of fertilizing culture beds with organic matter input in pits ===

==== Objective ====
He was looking for a new way to prepare easy-to-cultivate beds in market gardening because he faced a strong presence of unwanted weeds (weed seed bank). His goal was to design beds capable of '''storing water well while reducing weed pressure'''. To do this, Hamid thought of '''digging pits''' into which he would add '''[[compost]] and green waste'''.
[[File:Hamid Majjaoui, Planche en fosse fertilisée.jpg|thumbnail|Bed of lettuces surrounded by cinder blocks, integrated into a pit system where only the last layer, composed of compost, is visible.]]

==== Steps to implement the pit system ====
He digs '''40 pits''' for deep [[fertilization]]:

* Dimensions per pit: 10 m² (10 meters long × 1 meter wide)
* Depth: 60 cm

Composition of each pit (from deepest to most superficial layer):

* 40 cm of dry trunks
* Dry chipped wood to fill gaps
* 20 cm of freshly cut green wood
* Another layer of chipped green waste (to fill gaps)
* 10 cm of garden soil
* 4 cm of compost

* Soil watered and compacted at each layer.

==== By layers (cost and labor time): ====
# '''Tree trunks:''' Wood cut on the farm → minimum 1 day of work → 4 m3 of cut trunks.
# '''Dry chipped wood:''' (produced on the farm) Spreading → 30 minutes → 2 wheelbarrows of dry chipped wood per bed. Must be walked on to compact well → 10 minutes if done properly.
# '''Green wood:''' (produced on the farm) 1 wheelbarrow of green chipped wood needed per bed → 30 minutes.
# '''Green chipped wood:''' (produced on the farm) Must be walked on to compact well, can take 10 minutes if done properly.
# '''Cinder blocks:''' → Positioning the blocks takes on average half a day of work. → Cost: Beds are surrounded by cinder blocks costing 3 dirhams each; here there are 56 blocks, so 56 × 3 dirhams = 168 dirhams per bed (price valid 2 years ago).
# '''Forest soil:''' The soil used in the beds is forest soil bought at 90 dirhams per truckload. → It takes half a day for a worker to put it in a bin.
# '''Compost:''' (produced on the farm) To put the compost on top, 4 cm above the soil → 30 minutes → about 2 full wheelbarrows.

[[File:Hamid Majjaoui, Schéma du système de fosse fertilisé.png|alt=Diagram of the different layers of organic matter filling the pit.|center|thumbnail|595x595px|Diagram of the different layers of organic matter filling the pit.]]

'''Total estimated time:''' One pit per day with four people, including manual digging and adding the different materials into the pit. This time does not include upstream preparation work needed to have materials ready: green and dry chipped wood, cut tree trunks, etc.

==== Irrigation management in market garden pits ====
* Watering frequency (especially for beetroot):
** From germination: daily (from day 4).
** Then: twice a week → once a week at maturity.
** Watering sessions last 10 minutes.
** Irrigation in orchards starts once a week, and he also uses compost in irrigation.

* The positioned sprinklers are '''micro sprinklers''', costing on average 1 dirham including the metal rod with the sprinkler; for irrigation hose it is 1.2 dirhams per meter.

==== Result ====
Better crop performance on these beds:

* Beetroots: 64 plants/m² (vs 15/m² in conventional).
* Well-formed bulbs, healthy foliage.
* Harvest grouped (vs staggered harvest in conventional systems).

==== Observation & comment ====

* To show '''porosity''' Hamid inserts a 50 to 60 cm metal rod into the soil and it goes in easily.

* '''Labor difficulties''': During pit installation, most staff were untrained; Hamid had to supervise to ensure work was done properly according to living soil rules.

* Advice if done again: Hamid estimates losing about 25% of time due to poor site organization at the start. For him, it is essential to have all materials ready before laborers arrive, to give clear instructions and avoid time loss.

=== 3. Production of chipped wood for compost or mulching ===

==== Objective ====

* '''Reduce dependence on straw and external inputs''' by developing autonomy in organic matter directly on the farm.
* This approach aims to limit costs, especially in a [[drought]] context where straw becomes rare and expensive.

==== Pruning management before chipping ====

* He uses all '''plant prunings''' to make '''compost or mulch'''. He prunes twice a year (estimated about 30 m3 per [[pruning]]).
* In case of '''urgent need''' (e.g. after weeding), he '''can chip directly to obtain mulch'''. Otherwise, the delay between storage and chipping generally does not exceed 3 to 4 months.
[[File:Broyeur auto construit.jpg|thumbnail|Self-built chipper by Hamid Majjaoui.]]

==== Self-built chipper ====

* He does not have a professional [[chipper]]: he built one himself with a welder's help:
** Manufacturing cost: 6,500 dirhams including 1,000 dirhams for welder labor including screws, bolts, etc. He provided the metal to the welder.
** 220 volts motor, plugged into mains.
** Took 4 to 5 days of work with the welder, especially to calibrate the chipper blades.

'''Remark:'''

* He uses '''fresh chips''' on areas without planned seeding or with '''non-sensitive plants''' (e.g. trees, resistant plants), but not for market garden crops like zucchinis.
* The welder later sold 10 units with the same plans, indicating the mechanism met a need for several farmers in the area.

=== Several composting methods ===
In all methods, '''compost watering rhythm''' is based on a simple observation: just look '''20 cm deep into the compost.'''

* '''If''' it is still warm, decomposition is active → no need to water.
* If cold, water to restart decomposition.

Watering lasts about 10 minutes.

'''Remark:''' Generally, this means watering once a week, but frequency may vary with season (outside temperature and air humidity have significant influence).

==== Classic method ====

* Compost is '''turned 3 to 4 times''' over 9 months. It is composed of green waste, rotten vegetables and weeds from the farm.
* After 9 months, compost is ready to use. However, if too rich, it can cause root burns. In this case, he dilutes it with soil from his land, for example for repotting.
* If he can leave it decomposed longer, he does. He notes that the older the compost, the better it is.
[[File:3 des 6 bacs de compost rempli avec les déchets verts en phase de décomposition..jpg|thumbnail|280x280px|3 of 6 compost bins filled with green waste in decomposition phase]]

===== Bin organization =====

* 6 compost bins, each 1 m³.
* Each bin can be turned with a fork in about 1 hour.
* Compost is also used directly in the field, on all crops.
* He stores crop waste, seed-bearing weeds, etc.

==== Method with chipped wood ====

* He chips wood as previously described; chips can be from reeds, [[Acacia]] mollissima (soft tree rich in tannins), mulberry, [[bamboo]]. Wood is more stable, producing compost usable as substrate or organic amendment to improve structure.
* He composts chips in piles, not bins. He can compost chips alone or mixed with soil (half soil / half chipped wood). This takes about 9 months.
* To help decompose chip piles, he adds water and some vegetable waste to accelerate decomposition.

==== Berkeley method ====

* Berkeley method tested: 20 days compost instead of 9 months, provided the pile is turned every two days; it is fast but requires close monitoring. To do this, he piles compost and covers it with a [[plastic sheet]] to limit evaporation.

==== Compost production method for seedling substrate ====

* Compost containing straw can be used, up to half the mix. After 6 months, if straw was incorporated, the pile contains fewer fine particles, less suitable for seedling substrate. → For the pile shown in the photo, about one 45 L bucket of sieved compost is obtained (estimated volume 0.6 m³).[[File:Hamid Majjaoui tas de broyat en phase de compostage. .jpg|alt=Pile of chipped wood in composting phase.|thumbnail|Pile of chipped wood in composting phase.]]
* To obtain larger quantities of '''seedling substrate''', it is better to use a pile composed only of composted chipped wood.

Sieving can be done in two ways: with a small manual sieve (about 10 dirhams) → sieving time: 30 minutes. With a large mesh sieve, more expensive but more efficient → sieving time: 10 minutes. Compost is shoveled onto the mesh surface. Fine particles fall through, residue is collected behind the grid.

'''Remark:'''

* For seedling substrate, a fine mesh sieve must be used to obtain a homogeneous substrate.
* Priority is given to sieving compost from chipped wood, as it provides fine material well suited for seeding.
* To date, the ideal formula has not yet been found according to Hamid.
[[File:Hamid Majjaoui entrain d'utiliser sa débrousailleuse-tondeuse. .jpg|thumbnail|Hamid Majjaoui using his brush-cutter mower.]]

=== 4. Homemade brush-cutter ===
* Works like a mower, integrates hammers like in a [[mower]] for straw.
* '''Effective in grasslands''' with some woody material (bramble, small wood, small palm).
* Manufacturing time with a welder: 1 week.
* Runs on gasoline, but he uses it little since he adopted the cover management technique with sickle and board.
* Does not work well on rocky terrain.
* Price = 40,000 dirhams because prototype and motor had to be purchased.
'''Remark:''' He stresses: be careful with safety (risk of projection in front of the mower).

== Farm photo gallery ==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=111}}

== Sources ==
Interview of Hamid Majjaoui conducted in 2025.{{Partenariat Urbane}}
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Ferme de Hamid Majjaoui]]
[[ar:مزرعة حميد مجعاوي]]

Karim Boutayeb Farm

2026-06-19T15:53:26Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Karim Boutayeb Farm
| Sous-titre=Farm with orchard, vegetable garden and seed production.
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Karim Boutayeb
| Bannière=Photo banière Karim Boutayeb.jpg
| Photo de l'agriculteur=Photo de Karim Boutayeb.jpg.jpg
| Département=Morocco
| Adresse=Tamesna, Morocco
| Coordonnées GPS=33.80457, -6.8756
| SAU=5
| UTH=2
| Texture du sol=Sandy clay
| Description de sol=clay-sandy
| Type de production=Mixed farming and livestock
| Cultures=Citrus@ Rosemary@ Tomato@ Olive@ Avocado@ Pomegranate@ Lettuce@ Strawberry@ Passion fruit@ Carob tree@ Lemon@ Cabbage@ Soft wheat@ Barley@ Bean@ Beetroot@ Spinach@ Orange
| Titre court=Karim Boutayeb Farm
| Objectif=Biodiversity
| Organisme=Structure:National Center for Agroecology
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Produce own seeds, Orchard vegetable garden, Agroforestry
}}
Karim Boutayeb, a farmer in Tamesna, Morocco, cultivates his land and raises his animals according to agroecology principles. Here is a portrait of his farm.

== Context ==

=== The farm ===
*'''Farmer's name:''' Karim Boutayeb
*'''Farm name:''' Karim Boutayeb Farm
*'''Location:''' Tamesna, Morocco
*'''Date of [[installation]]:''' 2015
*'''Cultivated area:''' 5 ha.
*'''Soil texture:''' [[Sandy loam]].
*'''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]]):''' 2
*'''Climate:''' According to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, Rabat has a [[Mediterranean climate]] with hot summers (Csa). Temperatures generally range between 13 °C and 24 °C throughout the year, with extremes rarely dropping to 5 °C or rising to 39 °C. Average annual rainfall is about 383 mm, spread over 52 rainy days per year.

===Marketing===

*Karim is not yet in a seed marketing phase; he should go through a '''standardization system''' to be authorized to sell them. He mentions a potential contact with '''Carrefour''' for '''unprocessed products''', but points out that large retailers '''take 60% of the margin''' on agricultural products and seeds.

===Labor===

*'''1 full-time worker.'''

*Karim would like to employ a second full-time worker, but for that, he would need to enter the marketing phase.

==Agricultural production==

=== Farm organization ===
[[File:Assolement de la ferme.png|thumbnail|498x498px|Crop rotation of the farm (surface proportions are not respected)|none]]

=== Plant production ===
*'''2 ha in Orchard''' including '''0.6 ha in citrus production''' and more than '''1 ha of old avocado plantation'''. He plans to eventually reduce the [[:Category:Crops|avocado crops]] because they are too water-demanding and not suitable for the climate according to him.
*'''1 ha in [[vegetable gardening]]:''' main crops are '''tomato,''' '''[[lettuce]],''' '''cucurbits,''' '''beans''' and '''[[pepper]]'''.
*'''2 ha in cereal crops''' with '''[[barley]]''' and '''[[soft wheat]]''' as main crops.

'''Note:'''

[[File:Karim Boutayeb, Culture d'avocat. .jpg|thumbnail|Row of healthy pomegranate trees, having resisted repeated episodes of hot winds and drought over the past six years.]]
*'''A citrus orchard''' was planted by his sister seven years ago, at a time when citrus prices were still high. Since then, the price of [[lemon]] has dropped sharply (1 dirham/kg currently), to the point that it no longer covers [[irrigation]] costs. He therefore plans to reduce the number of lemon trees. He also grows other citrus (about seven varieties), including oranges and kumquats.
*'''Walnut trees''' were allocated to him under an aid program, but they are '''not adapted to the local climate'''. However, '''pomegranate trees''' show '''good results.'''

*He planted '''200 avocado trees''' ten years ago, but most were uprooted after an episode of dry, hot [[wind]] that caused their drying out. The dry climate is not suitable for avocado trees, which are too water-demanding.

=== Animal production ===
He now only has '''4 hens''', whereas he had '''30 before'''. He lost them gradually, mainly due to stray dogs. However, he plans to buy some again soon.

=== Education, training and life path ===
*Karim Boutayeb started his path with '''studies in agronomy engineering''', before '''switching to economics''' where he pursued a master's degree. However, at 39, he decided to '''leave the economic sector''', no longer finding meaning in his work.

*'''In 2003,''' he '''returned to agriculture''', following training in biodynamics. He then worked in Ibiza, Spain, on a farm for four to five years, then engaged in managing a battery sales company with his wife.
*Health problems forced him to stop '''in 2015'''. Exhausted by travel, '''he chose to return to Morocco to take over the family plot''' and devote himself to more meaningful work.

==Motivation and objective==
Karim resumed working the land thinking it would be beneficial for his health. Today, he notes that it has indeed had a positive impact: he feels much better. His production '''aims primarily at self-sufficiency,''' but eventually he hopes to '''market it.''' He is particularly attached to agroecological principles, notably '''no-till''' and the use of '''heirloom seeds.'''

==Agronomic aspect==

===Agricultural practice===

*Karim does not '''use plastic on the farm.'''[[File:Karim Boutayeb, couvert spontanée entre les arbres. .jpg|thumbnail|Spontaneous cover crop in the orchard]]
*For mulching, '''he produces his own straw''', because the price of bales has increased sharply: the cost is 50 MAD per bale, whereas before the [[drought]] episodes, bale sizes were larger and could be bought for 5 Dirhams.
*Karim Boutayeb practices '''no-till''' in the orchard and vegetable garden parts; for the cereal part, the information was not provided. [[File:Karim Boutayeb, culture de carotte au milieu de rangée d'olivier.jpg|thumbnail|Orchard vegetable garden, carrot crops between rows of olive trees.|alt=Orchard vegetable garden, carrot crops between rows of olive trees.]]
*Some areas in the orchard have '''spontaneous cover crops'''.
*He also broadcasts '''[[:Category:Barley|barley]] between the [[trees]],''' '''associating it with [[green manure]]''' such as [[vetch]]. He also grows '''soft wheat''' on the orchard plot. Some local varieties come from ICARDA (The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas), which has a large stock of heirloom seeds.

*For cover crop management, he also does '''manual mowing''' which he '''returns to the soil''' to manage spontaneous covers in the orchards '''(chop and drop)'''.
*He has set up growing beds in '''[[Orchard vegetable garden|orchard vegetable gardens]].''' He moved from small beds of 5 to 10 m long to longer beds of 20-25 m by 1 m wide (visually estimated).'''

===Water management and soil characteristics===
He has '''three wells,''' but '''only one is used''' for irrigation'''.''' It goes down to '''126 m deep''' and can provide water continuously for 24 hours. The other two wells (70 m) have autonomy of less than an hour. The storage basin is 40 m3. Irrigation is manual (with a hose), done by a worker.

==Practices of interest==

===Innovations, seed selection and processing===

====Context====
Karim practices '''varietal selection''' to '''adapt his plants to the local climate'''. He started '''producing his own seeds in 2023.''' He focuses on '''three tomato varieties''' well adapted to the climate:''' Black Crimea, Honey of Mexico and Orange Beefsteak.

===Seed recovery and storage===
[[File:Karim Boutayeb, culture de tomate .jpg|thumbnail|350x350px|Tomato crop with shade structure under construction.]]

====Tomato cultivation====

*He grows tomatoes from '''seedlings started in February''', with '''planting at the end of March''' and a first '''harvest in mid-April'''. He must harvest seeds before the high heat.
*He observed that '''above 30 °C, tomatoes tend to hybridize more easily between varieties.''' Indeed, flowers develop a longer pistil which facilitates reception of external pollen, while the plant's own pollen becomes less functional.

====Method to recover seeds====
'''To produce seed''' from '''30 kg''' of tomatoes, it takes about '''5 to 6 hours of work.'''

#He starts by '''harvesting the first tomatoes located at the bottom of the plants''', as they generally give better quality seeds. For 30 kg of cherry tomatoes, it takes about 3 to 4 hours to select the good fruits. Selection is also based on plants showing good qualities, such as '''drought resistance''' or '''good vigor.'''
#Once the tomatoes are harvested, he '''washes them in a large basin''', which takes about 30 minutes for 30 kg. Then, he '''cuts''' the tomatoes in half. He '''recovers the seeds''' with a small spoon. For cherry tomatoes and Black Crimea, it takes about one minute per [[tomato]]. For beefsteak tomatoes, this step is longer, although he does not know the exact time.
#He then puts the seeds and pulp '''in a large sieve'''. He crushes the pulp with a spatula to let the juice and seeds fall through, while the flesh remains in the sieve. Depending on the variety, he may add a little water in the sieve to help the seeds sink.
#The seeds are then placed '''in a bowl of water'''. Those that float must be removed because they are sterile (no embryo). This step takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
#He then leaves the bowl in a shaded and well-ventilated place, preferably somewhere he passes regularly to not forget. '''After two days,''' a white fungus forms on the surface. This is normal: the fungus develops on the seed's mucilage layer. It helps break it down, which facilitates germination. This is the fermentation of the mucilage. When the fungus is present, seeds can be removed for the next step.
#[[File:Bocal de blette.jpg|thumbnail|263x263px|Jar of self-produced chard seed. On the label, Karim notes the seed quantity and sometimes the fruit condition when harvested.]] Seeds are then '''cleaned again''' in a sieve, which takes about ten minutes. They are then placed in a '''coffee filter''', drained and hung in a well-ventilated place for a day to dry. When well dried, they can be stored in a jar or a bag with a label.
#Then, seeds are placed '''in the freezer''' for one week to break dormancy. They must be completely dry, otherwise the embryo risks freezing and the seed will no longer be fertile.
#[[:Category:Tomato|Tomato]] seeds '''can be stored in jars''' for easily 4 years.

'''Note:''' He notes that some tomatoes, like beefsteak, produce few fruits (2 kg this year). Moreover, he also observed that in some fruits, not all seeds are necessarily mature.

===Processing and valorization of tomato pulp===
To valorize the pulp extracted during the seed filtering process.

*'''For tomato sauce, 30 kg of fruit''' can produce about '''40 half-liter jars (20 liters of sauce)'''. The pulp is cooked with herbs, then put '''in sterilized jars.'''

*Jars are filled using a funnel to avoid contamination on the edges.

===Advice and improvement (seed collection and tomato pulp recovery):===

*Do not '''work alone''' in the process, as it can '''be long and tedious.'''
*Be very '''careful''' that the '''seeds are well dried''' before putting them in the freezer, to avoid sterilizing them.
*He currently stores his seeds in a metal cupboard, which is not ideal. Karim advises keeping them '''in a wooden cupboard, in the shade, cool,''' in a '''room where the temperature remains stable,''' to avoid large temperature fluctuations. He was also advised to use a refrigerator. There are possibilities to rent refrigerated storage space from companies specialized in seed conservation.

===Seed recovery on other varieties===
Karim also produces '''pepper seeds''', notably the '''Sweet Dream''' '''variety''', well adapted to the local climate. Extraction is simpler: open the fruit, rub the seeds to detach them, then sort them by flotation in a bowl similarly to tomatoes and dry them.

==Photo gallery of Karim Boutayeb's farm==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=113}}

==Sources==
Interview with Karim Boutayeb conducted in 2025.{{Partenariat Urbane}}

{{Pages liées}}
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Ferme de Karim Boutayeb]]
[[ar:مزرعة كريم بوطايب]]

Garden of Hope

2026-06-19T15:52:42Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

#REDIRECT [[Jardin de l'Espoir Farm]]
[[ar:حديقة الأمل]]

Joseph Josue Farm

2026-06-19T15:52:05Z

Bertrand Gorge: Add English interwiki link

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Joseph Josue's Farm
| Sous-titre=Market gardening, agroecological fertility management
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Joseph Josue
| Bannière=20250526150917-c614df04-la.jpg
| Photo de l'agriculteur=20250526150432-d1373382-la.jpg
| Département=Benin
| Adresse=Semé Kpodji
| Coordonnées GPS=6.38147, 2.60446
| SAU=0.75
| UTH=5
| Texture du sol=Sand
| Type de production=Market gardening
| Cultures=Tomato@ Cucumber@ Carrot@ Parsley@ Fenugreek@ Zata@ Chili pepper@ Mint@ Turmeric@ Chayote@ Goma@ Cabbage@ Amaranth@ Radish@ Turnip@ Basil@ Rosemary@ Thyme@ Rockery@ Stevia@ Watermelon@ Melon
| Autres caractéristiques=Fertility management in market gardening@ Irrigated system
| Objectif=Water management
| Organisme=Structure:Earthworm Production
| Programme=Urban
| Date de mise en œuvre=2010
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
}}

== Context ==

* '''Farmer's name''' : Joseph Josue
* '''Farm name''' : Joseph Josue's Farm
* '''Location''' : Semé Kpodji, Benin
* '''Date of [[installation]]''' : 2010
* '''Cultivated area''' : approximately 0.75 ha
* '''Soil texture''' : Sandy (Market gardening plain 100 m from the sea)
* '''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]])''' : 5 permanent including Joseph, workers and people who want to learn. There are also temporary workers and interns who come regularly. His children sometimes help him.
* '''Climate''' : Semé Kpodji has a savanna climate with dry winter (Aw) according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. Semé Kpodji is an area with significant rainfall. Even during the driest month, it rains a lot. Over the year, the average temperature in Semé Kpodji is 27.4°C and the average precipitation is 1217.1 mm.
* '''Studies/training/life path''' :
** Joseph started practicing organic farming before meeting Mr. Deguénon Edgar (coordinator of the NGO Hortitechs Development, linked to SPG certification. His organization supports the Association for the Maintenance of Peasant Agriculture (AMAP-BENIN))
** He received training in organic farming and SPG (Participatory Guarantee System) from Mr. Deguénon Edgar as well as training on homemade biopesticides and Bokashi production.
** Within the Safe Veg project, experiments on his farm are implemented with support from CIRAD agronomists to limit the impact of root-knot nematodes and Ralstonia on certain crops (Tomatoes, Peppers, Amaranth, etc.). He also learned to select and reproduce certain seeds (yellow chili, demon chili, watermelon, melon) which reduced his production costs and allowed greater autonomy of the farm for production.

== Motivations and objectives ==

* '''Interest in agroecology''' : Joseph is an organic vegetable grower and has practiced organic farming for about '''14-15 years'''. His farm is '''organic certified''' and undergoes annual inspections via the SPG (Participatory Guarantee System). He makes his own compost (in addition to purchases), organic pesticides (based on chili and herbs), and natural fertilizers like Ryaka (based on pineapple, orange, and coconut juice). He integrates Crotalaria in his rotations to correct the soil and manage nematodes and Ralstonia.
* '''Goal / future projects''' : Not owning his land (which belongs to the Beninese state), Joseph wishes to buy land elsewhere to start new productions, in case the State asks him to leave the current domain. He plans to cultivate Crotalaria over his entire field and wants to continue growing stevia. He plans to restart the farmers' market where he sold his products in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fidjross%C3%A8 Fidjrossè], one of the central neighborhoods of the city of Cotonou.

== Agronomic aspect ==

=== Plant productions ===

* '''Market gardening and food crops''' : Tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, parsley, fenugreek, zata, chili pepper (yellow, demon), mint (red, green, peppermint), turmeric, chayote, goma, cabbage/soma, amaranth, radish, turnips, basil, rosemary, thyme, rockery, stevia, watermelon, melon (seeds used for production). Maize is mentioned as a potential crop to associate with Crotalaria.

* '''Fruit trees''' : Papayas (for customers), Moringa, mango tree, the State planted coconut trees on the domain.

=== Agricultural practices ===

==== Fertility management ====

* '''Compost:''' both homemade and purchased. Composting of animal manure bought from poultry, cattle, and sheep before application on plots.
* '''Bokashi:''' Production and use
* '''Ryaka:''' Production and application of this liquid fertilizer based on pineapple, orange, and coconut juice, which stimulates plant growth.
* '''Crotalaria Juncea''' (legume): as a plant to correct the soil and improve the land.

==== Pest management ====

* '''Natural treatments:''' uses products like BioBit and Top Bio but they remain very expensive for his farm, so he favors producing biopesticides from chili and other herbs.
* '''Decision rule''' : prevention is crucial. Do not wait until crops are attacked. On tomatoes, he sprays twice every three days. For other crops, less frequently (chayote for example is more resistant to pest attacks).
* '''Main pests''' : nematodes (on carrots, tomatoes, chili), mites (on cucumbers, tomatoes, chili), and fungi (especially on turnips). Ralstonia on solanaceae and amaranth.
* '''Losses''' : necessity to sell at conventional prices if products do not sell at organic prices to avoid loss by rot.

==== Soil work ====
Use of brush cutters and other tools for weeding and hoeing. Removal of roots and preparation of beds is done with hoe and by hand. Each planting bed is worked deeply (minimum 20 cm) with a hoe before cultivation.

==== Strategies facing constraints ====

* '''Difficulty selling organic products''' due to prices considered too high by consumers compared to conventional products. He is sometimes forced to sell his products at conventional market prices to avoid waste.
* '''Market fluctuations''' make production planning difficult.
* '''Difficulty obtaining certain organic inputs''', which pushed him to make his own (Ryaka, Bokashi). Autonomy in producing biopesticides and seeds reduces dependence on the market and its fluctuations. In recent years, fertilizer prices have greatly increased in Benin and autonomy helps reduce production costs.
* '''Threat of having to leave the State domain''' pushes him to plan to buy his own land to secure his activity. This is the case for most market gardeners in the Semé Kpodji plain. The lands were made available but many are planted with coconut trees; when the coconuts reach production age, it is likely the State will reclaim these plots.

==== Water system ====

* Uses a '''gas pump''' for irrigation, powered by a borehole.
* A gas bottle costs '''10,000 francs'''. He uses a minimum of 4 bottles per month in the dry season, but consumption decreases in the rainy season.
* Watering is more economical in gas when several people water simultaneously using a connector.

== Social aspect ==

=== Satisfactions/dissatisfactions ===

* '''Workload:''' The workload on Joseph Josue's farm is particularly high, due to the diversity of crops, choice of manual agroecological practices, and autonomy sought on inputs. Soil work is entirely done by hand or hoe, with particular care in preparing beds to 20 cm depth. Watering, although optimized with a gas pump and connectors, requires constant mobilization in the dry season. Homemade production of compost, Bokashi, biopesticides, and Ryaka represents additional time investment, as does seed selection and reproduction. Joseph is supported by three permanent workers, interns, apprentices, and sometimes his own children, but daily management remains demanding. Coordination of crops, preventive treatments, harvesting, and direct marketing on different channels add to this work intensity, making his schedule particularly full all year.
* '''Economic:'''
** '''Salary:''' After deduction of charges and expenses for workers and products, the net annual income for him and his family is about '''1 million to 1.5 million CFA francs'''.
** '''Dissatisfactions:''' Selling organic products is complicated because people are not willing to pay the normal price. He is often forced to sell at conventional prices to avoid loss. The price difference between organic and conventional is minimal (600 to 1000 francs). The market is very fluctuating, making sales forecasting difficult.
* '''Social:''' He sells to an organic producers' cooperative. He used to sell at a farmers' market in Fidji Rose with the association Jardins de l'espoir, but this activity is currently paused and being reactivated. He has street vendors, the “good ladies,” and customers who know organic products and come directly to buy on his farm. He trains interns and works with workers and his family.

* '''Living environment:''' The farm is located on State land. Joseph is uncertain about the duration of his occupation and plans to buy his own land for security.

=== Environment ===

* The farm is organic certified and uses agroecological practices for 14-15 years.
* He uses fertility and pest management techniques that respect the environment.
* Certified SPG with frequent controls on the application and use of pesticides and other synthetic products.

=== Technical support/Aids ===

* Support and training by Mr. Deguénon Edgar.
* Help from the Safe Veg project for setting up experimental plots and strengthening soil management/correction capacities, as well as for seed conservation and production.
* Pays an annual fee of '''6000 francs''' to the cooperative. He also pays certification fees annually.

=== Cooperation with other farmers ===

* He cooperates with a cooperative for selling his products.
* Neighbors use chemical products but also face pest problems, notably fungi on turnips. He tries to convince other farmers to switch to organic farming by demonstrating results on his farm, sharing his techniques and methods. However, difficulty in marketing pesticide-free products locally slows adoption of these practices by other farmers.

== Economic aspect ==

=== Land ===
The land is State property made available to Joseph, without direct rent. Joseph pays an annual fee of 6000 francs to the cooperative for office, electricity, and secretariat. Occasional contributions are organized for common work if needed.

=== Equipment ===

* 3 Brush cutters: 170,000 francs, 120,000 francs, and 130,000 francs = 470,000 FCFA
* Tools for manual work: Hoe, rake, machete, etc.
* Irrigation hoses: Replaced every two and a half years approximately, especially connectors.

=== Expenses (estimated annual) ===

* '''Purchased compost''' : About 50 to 70 bags per year, a 50 kg bag costs 3500 francs for cooperative members. (Between 175,000 and 245,000 francs per year).
* '''Animal manure (poultry, cattle, sheep)''' : About 800,000 to 1 million francs per year.
* '''Workers' salaries''' : About 1 million francs per year for three permanent workers (each earns 300-350 kFCFA per year). Interns are unpaid but receive money for food.
* '''Gas for irrigation pump''' : Minimum 4 bottles per month (10,000 francs per bottle) in dry season, at least 480,000 francs per year if irrigation is frequent.
* '''Fuel for market transport:''' About 4 liters per month (500-550 francs per liter), about 26,400 francs per year.
* '''Seeds''' : Maximum cost of 200,000 francs per year, reduced thanks to own seed production.
* '''Cooperative fee''' : 6000 francs per year.
* '''Certification and control fees''' : Paid annually, about 7000 FCFA.

=== Income ===

* '''Annual turnover''' : Can reach 5 million CFA francs, but often varies between 2 million and 2.5 million CFA francs.
* '''Net income for the farmer''' : After deduction of all expenses (products, workers, food), about 1 million to 1.5 million CFA francs remain for Joseph and his family.

=== Commercial strategy / outlets ===

* Sale to a cooperative.
* Sale at a farmers' market (currently temporarily stopped but being relaunched).
* Direct sale to street vendors and customers who know organic products.
* Difficulty selling at organic prices, sometimes forced to sell at conventional market prices to avoid losses.
* The market is very fluctuating and unpredictable.

== Farmer's advice ==
Joseph Josue reveals that his resilience and proactive approach are very important. He emphasizes the importance of '''prevention''' in pest management for organic farming. He also highlights the necessity of <nowiki/>'''innovation''' and '''autonomy''' by making his own products (compost, Ryaka, organic pesticides) in face of supply difficulties and high costs. Finally, he highlights the '''economic challenges''' related to the valorization of organic products and the need to adapt to market realities to ensure the farm's survival.

== Photo gallery ==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=95}}

== Sources ==
Interview with Joseph Josue conducted in 2025.
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Ferme de Joseph Josue]]
[[ar:مزرعة يوسف يشوع]]

Mouzouna Farm

2026-06-19T14:41:38Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

Said Akkif Farm

2026-06-19T14:40:44Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

Ard Al Khayrat Farm

2026-06-19T14:39:52Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

Taoufik Oualmadou Farm

2026-06-19T14:38:44Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

Jardin de l'Espoir Farm

2026-06-19T14:37:51Z

Bertrand Gorge:

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Garden of Hope
| Sous-titre=Market gardening farm with minimal soil tillage
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Ousmane Sambu
| Bannière=20250526144607-c32f3df4-la.jpg
| Département=Benin
| Adresse=Abomey-Calavi
| Coordonnées GPS=6.45386, 2.35425
| SAU=1.3
| UTH=3
| Description de sol=sandy loam
| Type de production=Market gardening
| Cultures=Basil@ Venonia@ Goma@ Amaranth@ Lettuce@ Cabbage@ Beetroot@ Carrot@ Radish@ Vanilla@ Eggplant@ Okra@ Green bean@ Thyme@ Rosemary@ Fennel@ Dill@ Artemisia@ Corn@ Papaya@ Pomegranate@ Noni@ Passion fruit@ Moringa
| Titre court=Garden of Hope
| Objectif=Water management
| Organisme=Structure:Earthworm Production
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Market garden orchard
}}
Ousmane Sambu, a farmer in Abomey-Calavi, Benin, cultivates his land and raises his animals according to agroecology principles. Here is a portrait of his farm.

== Context ==

=== The farm ===

* '''Farmer's name''' : Ousmane Sambu
* '''Farm name''' : Garden of Hope
* '''Location''' : Abomey-Calavi, Benin
* '''Establishment date''' : 2014
* '''Cultivated area:''' 1.3 ha. The cultivated area is 3000 square meters. The newly acquired plot is one hectare.
* '''Soil texture''' : [[Sandy loam]]. Sandy-clay at depth.
* '''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]])''' : 3: Ousmane and two of his Nigerien brothers. Beninese interns are also present and trained on site, some later settling on their own.
* '''Climate''' : Calavi has a humid equatorial climate, with alternating rainy and dry seasons. According to the Köppen classification, it is a tropical savanna climate (Aw), influenced by the monsoon. The average annual temperature is 26.5°C and average precipitation is 1342 mm.
* '''Studies/training/life path''' : Ousmane learned gardening in Benin with a Nigerien brother Suleymane, who returned from France. Suleymane trained him in agroecology, direct sales, and general farm management. Since Suleymane left, Ousmane continues to train himself by seeking information online, practicing, and visiting other places in Benin and West Africa to learn interesting techniques that he then adapts on his farm. He considers himself to have a "green thumb."

== Motivations and objectives ==

* '''Interest in agroecology''' : Ousmane practices agroecology and believes it is easier and more profitable than conventional agriculture. He sees agroecology as a source of more stable income. He emphasizes patience, the "green thumb," and love of work as key elements for success in agroecology.
* '''Goal / future projects''' : Ousmane wants to increase his production. The current site being limited, he has acquired '''an additional one-hectare plot''' in town to increase production and supply baskets to more clients in Calavi and Cotonou.

Information about the farm:

== Agronomic aspect ==

=== Plant productions: ===

* '''Market and food crops''' : Ousmane produces a wide variety of vegetables: leafy vegetables, fruit vegetables, and root vegetables. He notably cites local basil (chayot), venonia (Amavive), large morel (Goma), amaranth (fauteuil), lettuce, cabbage, beetroot, carrot, radish, vanilla, eggplant, okra, and green bean. He also grows aromatic plants (basil, thyme, rosemary, fennel, dill) and medicinal plants such as Artemisia (Artemisia annua and Artemisia afra). Corn is also mentioned among the crops.
* '''Fruit trees''' : The farm includes papayas, pomegranates, noni, and passion fruits. Moringa is also present and consumed.

=== Agricultural practices ===

==== Fertility management ====
Ousmane makes his own compost. He uses droppings, cow dung, wood ashes, dead leaves, and charcoal powder. The compost is left to decompose for three months and is turned after one and a half months to avoid heat that can kill earthworms and harm plants. The compost is very rich and allows successive harvests over several months, even more than a year, without constant new input. About 4 to 5 bags of compost are applied per 24-meter-long bed (or 1 bag per 4-5 meters) each year. Ousmane also sells part of his compost to neighbors or colleagues.

==== Pest management ====
* '''Main pests''' : Mites are a major problem for tomatoes and peppers, making them difficult to grow. Nematodes are present but Ousmane manages them with his techniques.
* '''Natural treatments''' : Ousmane uses treatments based on Neem oil, Neem leaves, and papaya leaves. He has also tried solutions based on chili and ashes. The concentration of these treatments is crucial, as too high a concentration can burn plants, and too low is ineffective.
* '''Preventive strategies''' : He practices crop association, planting aromatic herbs such as Artemisia, basil, onion, and leek with vegetables. The strong smell of these plants repels insects and allows to "dip" them.
* '''Losses''' : Tomatoes and peppers are the most difficult crops to manage, partly due to mites and potentially the irrigation system which makes them too wet.

==== Soil work ====
The work on the crop beds is done with a hoe mainly for weeding when planting. The beds are always covered and there are perennial crops, so '''work is minimal''' once crops are established and mainly consists of manual weeding.

==== Strategies to face constraints ====
To cope with high heat, palm branches are used as shade, especially for young plants in the nursery. For pests, he relies on natural treatments and crop association. For seeds, he participates in seed exchange fairs (e.g., in Senegal) and '''keeps his own good seeds,''' reducing dependence on purchases.

==== Water system ====
The farm uses an electric submersible pump. It is connected directly to the national grid with a card meter. The electricity cost for irrigation is about 20,000 CFA francs per month in the dry season and 10,000 CFA francs per month in the rainy season, about 100,000 CFA francs per year. The watering system uses perforated pipes or drip tapes that water by sprinkling, which can make some crops like tomatoes too wet. During the dry season, water needs are higher, increasing electricity costs.

== Social aspect ==

=== Satisfactions/dissatisfactions ===

* '''Workload''' : Not specified, but managing three people and interns, as well as daily sales, suggests intense activity.
* '''Economic''' : Ousmane is satisfied with his income. He considers his agroecological model more stable and beneficial than conventional, despite annual fluctuations linked to production. He earns about '''800,000 CFA francs per person per year'''
* '''Social''' : Ousmane works with his brothers and trains Beninese interns, helping them later settle on their own sites. He shares his knowledge and offers advice (local products, pest control with natural methods) to neighboring farmers for free.

=== Environment ===
The farm focuses on agroecology. It uses natural methods for soil fertility (compost) and pest management. Crop diversity is a key strategy. Ousmane recognizes climate change challenges, such as increased heat.

=== Technical support/Aids ===
Ousmane receives seed samples from organizations like Seeds Without Borders. He participates in seed exchange fairs with other countries. He has never resorted to bank loans or microfinance.

=== Cooperation with other farmers ===
He exchanges seeds at international fairs (e.g., in Senegal). He advises and helps neighboring farmers, especially for nurseries and natural treatments. He also offers paid training so interns take learning seriously.

== Economic aspect ==

=== Land tenure ===
Ousmane rents the land. The rental cost is about '''300,000 to 350,000 CFA francs per year'''.

=== Equipment ===

* Submersible pump: 85,000 CFA francs.
* Wood for stakes/trellising: about 90,000 CFA francs per year (3% of income).
* Ropes for climbing plants.
* Seedling trays (for nurseries): Sometimes bought in batches of 20 to 50. Price: 850 to 1500 CFA francs per tray.
* Donations, financial aid: No direct donations or financial aid mentioned, but seed exchanges with organizations and other farmers.

=== Expenses (estimated annual) ===

* '''Materials for compost''' (cow dung, droppings, wood ashes, charcoal powder): Included in overall "soil nourishment" expense.
* '''Electricity''' (mainly for irrigation): about 100,000 CFA francs.
* '''Wood and stakes''' : about 90,000 CFA francs.
* '''Ropes'''.
* '''Seedling trays''' : Variable costs, purchased occasionally (e.g., 30 trays at 1500 CFA francs = 45,000 CFA francs for a year if bought).
* '''Fuel for transport''' (motorbike deliveries): about 5 liters per week (variable, as deliveries are not daily).
* '''Delivery fees''' (when sending someone).
* '''Land rental''' : 300,000 - 350,000 CFA francs.
* '''Total estimated expenses around 600,000 CFA francs per year.'''

=== Income (Annual turnover): ===
The farm's total income is estimated between '''3 and 4 million CFA francs per year.'''

** '''Artemisia''' (medicinal plants): 50% to 60% of income.
** '''Fruits''' (papaya, pomegranate, noni, passion fruit): about 15%.
** '''Leafy vegetables and root vegetables''' : about 35% (the rest).

=== Commercial strategy / Markets ===
Sales are mainly '''by order.''' Ousmane assembles '''varied baskets''' (containing vegetables, fruits, aromatic plants) depending on availability. He also sells directly to neighbors who come to the farm. Sales at a local market (Fidji Rossé) have been paused. He sells his products daily. Compost is also sold in 50 kg bags at 4000 CFA francs per bag. Passion fruit is sold by the kilo, its price having doubled from 2500 to 5000 CFA francs per kilo due to strong demand and low local production. He also produces passion fruit juice, estimating production at about 1000 bottles per year.

== Farmer's advice ==
Ousmane's advice for those interested in agroecology is to remember three essential things: patience, the "green thumb" (things take when planted), and love for what you do. He insists that agroecology is not complicated if you have these qualities.

== Photo gallery ==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=94}}

== Sources ==
Interview with Ousmane Sambu conducted in 2025.
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Jardin de l'Espoir]]

Hamid Majjaoui Farm

2026-06-19T14:37:50Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

Garden of Hope

2026-06-19T14:37:29Z

Bertrand Gorge: Bertrand Gorge moved page Garden of Hope to Jardin de l'Espoir Farm

#REDIRECT [[Jardin de l'Espoir Farm]]

Jardin de l'Espoir Farm

2026-06-19T14:37:28Z

Bertrand Gorge: Bertrand Gorge moved page Garden of Hope to Jardin de l'Espoir Farm

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Garden of Hope
| Sous-titre=Market gardening farm with minimal soil tillage
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Ousmane Sambu
| Bannière=20250526144607-c32f3df4-la.jpg
| Département=Benin
| Adresse=Abomey-Calavi
| Coordonnées GPS=6.45386, 2.35425
| SAU=1.3
| UTH=3
| Description de sol=sandy loam
| Type de production=Market gardening
| Cultures=Basil@ Venonia@ Goma@ Amaranth@ Lettuce@ Cabbage@ Beetroot@ Carrot@ Radish@ Vanilla@ Eggplant@ Okra@ Green bean@ Thyme@ Rosemary@ Fennel@ Dill@ Artemisia@ Corn@ Papaya@ Pomegranate@ Noni@ Passion fruit@ Moringa
| Titre court=Garden of Hope
| Objectif=Water management
| Organisme=Structure:Earthworm Production
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Market garden orchard
}}
Ousmane Sambu, a farmer in Abomey-Calavi, Benin, cultivates his land and raises his animals according to agroecology principles. Here is a portrait of his farm.

Context

== Context ==

=== The farm ===

* '''Farmer's name''' : Ousmane Sambu
* '''Farm name''' : Garden of Hope
* '''Location''' : Abomey-Calavi, Benin
* '''Establishment date''' : 2014
* '''Cultivated area:''' 1.3 ha. The cultivated area is 3000 square meters. The newly acquired plot is one hectare.
* '''Soil texture''' : [[Sandy loam]]. Sandy-clay at depth.
* '''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]])''' : 3: Ousmane and two of his Nigerien brothers. Beninese interns are also present and trained on site, some later settling on their own.
* '''Climate''' : Calavi has a humid equatorial climate, with alternating rainy and dry seasons. According to the Köppen classification, it is a tropical savanna climate (Aw), influenced by the monsoon. The average annual temperature is 26.5°C and average precipitation is 1342 mm.
* '''Studies/training/life path''' : Ousmane learned gardening in Benin with a Nigerien brother Suleymane, who returned from France. Suleymane trained him in agroecology, direct sales, and general farm management. Since Suleymane left, Ousmane continues to train himself by seeking information online, practicing, and visiting other places in Benin and West Africa to learn interesting techniques that he then adapts on his farm. He considers himself to have a "green thumb."

== Motivations and objectives ==

* '''Interest in agroecology''' : Ousmane practices agroecology and believes it is easier and more profitable than conventional agriculture. He sees agroecology as a source of more stable income. He emphasizes patience, the "green thumb," and love of work as key elements for success in agroecology.
* '''Goal / future projects''' : Ousmane wants to increase his production. The current site being limited, he has acquired '''an additional one-hectare plot''' in town to increase production and supply baskets to more clients in Calavi and Cotonou.

Information about the farm:

== Agronomic aspect ==

=== Plant productions: ===

* '''Market and food crops''' : Ousmane produces a wide variety of vegetables: leafy vegetables, fruit vegetables, and root vegetables. He notably cites local basil (chayot), venonia (Amavive), large morel (Goma), amaranth (fauteuil), lettuce, cabbage, beetroot, carrot, radish, vanilla, eggplant, okra, and green bean. He also grows aromatic plants (basil, thyme, rosemary, fennel, dill) and medicinal plants such as Artemisia (Artemisia annua and Artemisia afra). Corn is also mentioned among the crops.
* '''Fruit trees''' : The farm includes papayas, pomegranates, noni, and passion fruits. Moringa is also present and consumed.

=== Agricultural practices ===

==== Fertility management ====
Ousmane makes his own compost. He uses droppings, cow dung, wood ashes, dead leaves, and charcoal powder. The compost is left to decompose for three months and is turned after one and a half months to avoid heat that can kill earthworms and harm plants. The compost is very rich and allows successive harvests over several months, even more than a year, without constant new input. About 4 to 5 bags of compost are applied per 24-meter-long bed (or 1 bag per 4-5 meters) each year. Ousmane also sells part of his compost to neighbors or colleagues.

==== Pest management ====
* '''Main pests''' : Mites are a major problem for tomatoes and peppers, making them difficult to grow. Nematodes are present but Ousmane manages them with his techniques.
* '''Natural treatments''' : Ousmane uses treatments based on Neem oil, Neem leaves, and papaya leaves. He has also tried solutions based on chili and ashes. The concentration of these treatments is crucial, as too high a concentration can burn plants, and too low is ineffective.
* '''Preventive strategies''' : He practices crop association, planting aromatic herbs such as Artemisia, basil, onion, and leek with vegetables. The strong smell of these plants repels insects and allows to "dip" them.
* '''Losses''' : Tomatoes and peppers are the most difficult crops to manage, partly due to mites and potentially the irrigation system which makes them too wet.

==== Soil work ====
The work on the crop beds is done with a hoe mainly for weeding when planting. The beds are always covered and there are perennial crops, so '''work is minimal''' once crops are established and mainly consists of manual weeding.

==== Strategies to face constraints ====
To cope with high heat, palm branches are used as shade, especially for young plants in the nursery. For pests, he relies on natural treatments and crop association. For seeds, he participates in seed exchange fairs (e.g., in Senegal) and '''keeps his own good seeds,''' reducing dependence on purchases.

==== Water system ====
The farm uses an electric submersible pump. It is connected directly to the national grid with a card meter. The electricity cost for irrigation is about 20,000 CFA francs per month in the dry season and 10,000 CFA francs per month in the rainy season, about 100,000 CFA francs per year. The watering system uses perforated pipes or drip tapes that water by sprinkling, which can make some crops like tomatoes too wet. During the dry season, water needs are higher, increasing electricity costs.

== Social aspect ==

=== Satisfactions/dissatisfactions ===

* '''Workload''' : Not specified, but managing three people and interns, as well as daily sales, suggests intense activity.
* '''Economic''' : Ousmane is satisfied with his income. He considers his agroecological model more stable and beneficial than conventional, despite annual fluctuations linked to production. He earns about '''800,000 CFA francs per person per year'''
* '''Social''' : Ousmane works with his brothers and trains Beninese interns, helping them later settle on their own sites. He shares his knowledge and offers advice (local products, pest control with natural methods) to neighboring farmers for free.

=== Environment ===
The farm focuses on agroecology. It uses natural methods for soil fertility (compost) and pest management. Crop diversity is a key strategy. Ousmane recognizes climate change challenges, such as increased heat.

=== Technical support/Aids ===
Ousmane receives seed samples from organizations like Seeds Without Borders. He participates in seed exchange fairs with other countries. He has never resorted to bank loans or microfinance.

=== Cooperation with other farmers ===
He exchanges seeds at international fairs (e.g., in Senegal). He advises and helps neighboring farmers, especially for nurseries and natural treatments. He also offers paid training so interns take learning seriously.

== Economic aspect ==

=== Land tenure ===
Ousmane rents the land. The rental cost is about '''300,000 to 350,000 CFA francs per year'''.

=== Equipment ===

* Submersible pump: 85,000 CFA francs.
* Wood for stakes/trellising: about 90,000 CFA francs per year (3% of income).
* Ropes for climbing plants.
* Seedling trays (for nurseries): Sometimes bought in batches of 20 to 50. Price: 850 to 1500 CFA francs per tray.
* Donations, financial aid: No direct donations or financial aid mentioned, but seed exchanges with organizations and other farmers.

=== Expenses (estimated annual) ===

* '''Materials for compost''' (cow dung, droppings, wood ashes, charcoal powder): Included in overall "soil nourishment" expense.
* '''Electricity''' (mainly for irrigation): about 100,000 CFA francs.
* '''Wood and stakes''' : about 90,000 CFA francs.
* '''Ropes'''.
* '''Seedling trays''' : Variable costs, purchased occasionally (e.g., 30 trays at 1500 CFA francs = 45,000 CFA francs for a year if bought).
* '''Fuel for transport''' (motorbike deliveries): about 5 liters per week (variable, as deliveries are not daily).
* '''Delivery fees''' (when sending someone).
* '''Land rental''' : 300,000 - 350,000 CFA francs.
* '''Total estimated expenses around 600,000 CFA francs per year.'''

=== Income (Annual turnover): ===
The farm's total income is estimated between '''3 and 4 million CFA francs per year.'''

** '''Artemisia''' (medicinal plants): 50% to 60% of income.
** '''Fruits''' (papaya, pomegranate, noni, passion fruit): about 15%.
** '''Leafy vegetables and root vegetables''' : about 35% (the rest).

=== Commercial strategy / Markets ===
Sales are mainly '''by order.''' Ousmane assembles '''varied baskets''' (containing vegetables, fruits, aromatic plants) depending on availability. He also sells directly to neighbors who come to the farm. Sales at a local market (Fidji Rossé) have been paused. He sells his products daily. Compost is also sold in 50 kg bags at 4000 CFA francs per bag. Passion fruit is sold by the kilo, its price having doubled from 2500 to 5000 CFA francs per kilo due to strong demand and low local production. He also produces passion fruit juice, estimating production at about 1000 bottles per year.

== Farmer's advice ==
Ousmane's advice for those interested in agroecology is to remember three essential things: patience, the "green thumb" (things take when planted), and love for what you do. He insists that agroecology is not complicated if you have these qualities.

== Photo gallery ==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=94}}

== Sources ==
Interview with Ousmane Sambu conducted in 2025.
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Jardin de l'Espoir]]

Karim Boutayeb Farm

2026-06-19T14:36:47Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

Jardin de l'Espoir Farm

2026-06-19T14:36:03Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

{{Portrait de ferme
|Nom de l'exploitation=Garden of Hope
| Sous-titre=Market gardening farm with minimal soil tillage
| Nom de l'agriculteur=Ousmane Sambu
| Bannière=20250526144607-c32f3df4-la.jpg
| Département=Benin
| Adresse=Abomey-Calavi
| Coordonnées GPS=6.45386, 2.35425
| SAU=1.3
| UTH=3
| Description de sol=sandy loam
| Type de production=Market gardening
| Cultures=Basil@ Venonia@ Goma@ Amaranth@ Lettuce@ Cabbage@ Beetroot@ Carrot@ Radish@ Vanilla@ Eggplant@ Okra@ Green bean@ Thyme@ Rosemary@ Fennel@ Dill@ Artemisia@ Corn@ Papaya@ Pomegranate@ Noni@ Passion fruit@ Moringa
| Titre court=Garden of Hope
| Objectif=Water management
| Organisme=Structure:Earthworm Production
| Programme=Urban
| Mois de l'année=January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
| Mots-clés=Market garden orchard
}}
Ousmane Sambu, a farmer in Abomey-Calavi, Benin, cultivates his land and raises his animals according to agroecology principles. Here is a portrait of his farm.

Context

== Context ==

=== The farm ===

* '''Farmer's name''' : Ousmane Sambu
* '''Farm name''' : Garden of Hope
* '''Location''' : Abomey-Calavi, Benin
* '''Establishment date''' : 2014
* '''Cultivated area:''' 1.3 ha. The cultivated area is 3000 square meters. The newly acquired plot is one hectare.
* '''Soil texture''' : [[Sandy loam]]. Sandy-clay at depth.
* '''Number of people working on the farm ([[FTE]])''' : 3: Ousmane and two of his Nigerien brothers. Beninese interns are also present and trained on site, some later settling on their own.
* '''Climate''' : Calavi has a humid equatorial climate, with alternating rainy and dry seasons. According to the Köppen classification, it is a tropical savanna climate (Aw), influenced by the monsoon. The average annual temperature is 26.5°C and average precipitation is 1342 mm.
* '''Studies/training/life path''' : Ousmane learned gardening in Benin with a Nigerien brother Suleymane, who returned from France. Suleymane trained him in agroecology, direct sales, and general farm management. Since Suleymane left, Ousmane continues to train himself by seeking information online, practicing, and visiting other places in Benin and West Africa to learn interesting techniques that he then adapts on his farm. He considers himself to have a "green thumb."

== Motivations and objectives ==

* '''Interest in agroecology''' : Ousmane practices agroecology and believes it is easier and more profitable than conventional agriculture. He sees agroecology as a source of more stable income. He emphasizes patience, the "green thumb," and love of work as key elements for success in agroecology.
* '''Goal / future projects''' : Ousmane wants to increase his production. The current site being limited, he has acquired '''an additional one-hectare plot''' in town to increase production and supply baskets to more clients in Calavi and Cotonou.

Information about the farm:

== Agronomic aspect ==

=== Plant productions: ===

* '''Market and food crops''' : Ousmane produces a wide variety of vegetables: leafy vegetables, fruit vegetables, and root vegetables. He notably cites local basil (chayot), venonia (Amavive), large morel (Goma), amaranth (fauteuil), lettuce, cabbage, beetroot, carrot, radish, vanilla, eggplant, okra, and green bean. He also grows aromatic plants (basil, thyme, rosemary, fennel, dill) and medicinal plants such as Artemisia (Artemisia annua and Artemisia afra). Corn is also mentioned among the crops.
* '''Fruit trees''' : The farm includes papayas, pomegranates, noni, and passion fruits. Moringa is also present and consumed.

=== Agricultural practices ===

==== Fertility management ====
Ousmane makes his own compost. He uses droppings, cow dung, wood ashes, dead leaves, and charcoal powder. The compost is left to decompose for three months and is turned after one and a half months to avoid heat that can kill earthworms and harm plants. The compost is very rich and allows successive harvests over several months, even more than a year, without constant new input. About 4 to 5 bags of compost are applied per 24-meter-long bed (or 1 bag per 4-5 meters) each year. Ousmane also sells part of his compost to neighbors or colleagues.

==== Pest management ====
* '''Main pests''' : Mites are a major problem for tomatoes and peppers, making them difficult to grow. Nematodes are present but Ousmane manages them with his techniques.
* '''Natural treatments''' : Ousmane uses treatments based on Neem oil, Neem leaves, and papaya leaves. He has also tried solutions based on chili and ashes. The concentration of these treatments is crucial, as too high a concentration can burn plants, and too low is ineffective.
* '''Preventive strategies''' : He practices crop association, planting aromatic herbs such as Artemisia, basil, onion, and leek with vegetables. The strong smell of these plants repels insects and allows to "dip" them.
* '''Losses''' : Tomatoes and peppers are the most difficult crops to manage, partly due to mites and potentially the irrigation system which makes them too wet.

==== Soil work ====
The work on the crop beds is done with a hoe mainly for weeding when planting. The beds are always covered and there are perennial crops, so '''work is minimal''' once crops are established and mainly consists of manual weeding.

==== Strategies to face constraints ====
To cope with high heat, palm branches are used as shade, especially for young plants in the nursery. For pests, he relies on natural treatments and crop association. For seeds, he participates in seed exchange fairs (e.g., in Senegal) and '''keeps his own good seeds,''' reducing dependence on purchases.

==== Water system ====
The farm uses an electric submersible pump. It is connected directly to the national grid with a card meter. The electricity cost for irrigation is about 20,000 CFA francs per month in the dry season and 10,000 CFA francs per month in the rainy season, about 100,000 CFA francs per year. The watering system uses perforated pipes or drip tapes that water by sprinkling, which can make some crops like tomatoes too wet. During the dry season, water needs are higher, increasing electricity costs.

== Social aspect ==

=== Satisfactions/dissatisfactions ===

* '''Workload''' : Not specified, but managing three people and interns, as well as daily sales, suggests intense activity.
* '''Economic''' : Ousmane is satisfied with his income. He considers his agroecological model more stable and beneficial than conventional, despite annual fluctuations linked to production. He earns about '''800,000 CFA francs per person per year'''
* '''Social''' : Ousmane works with his brothers and trains Beninese interns, helping them later settle on their own sites. He shares his knowledge and offers advice (local products, pest control with natural methods) to neighboring farmers for free.

=== Environment ===
The farm focuses on agroecology. It uses natural methods for soil fertility (compost) and pest management. Crop diversity is a key strategy. Ousmane recognizes climate change challenges, such as increased heat.

=== Technical support/Aids ===
Ousmane receives seed samples from organizations like Seeds Without Borders. He participates in seed exchange fairs with other countries. He has never resorted to bank loans or microfinance.

=== Cooperation with other farmers ===
He exchanges seeds at international fairs (e.g., in Senegal). He advises and helps neighboring farmers, especially for nurseries and natural treatments. He also offers paid training so interns take learning seriously.

== Economic aspect ==

=== Land tenure ===
Ousmane rents the land. The rental cost is about '''300,000 to 350,000 CFA francs per year'''.

=== Equipment ===

* Submersible pump: 85,000 CFA francs.
* Wood for stakes/trellising: about 90,000 CFA francs per year (3% of income).
* Ropes for climbing plants.
* Seedling trays (for nurseries): Sometimes bought in batches of 20 to 50. Price: 850 to 1500 CFA francs per tray.
* Donations, financial aid: No direct donations or financial aid mentioned, but seed exchanges with organizations and other farmers.

=== Expenses (estimated annual) ===

* '''Materials for compost''' (cow dung, droppings, wood ashes, charcoal powder): Included in overall "soil nourishment" expense.
* '''Electricity''' (mainly for irrigation): about 100,000 CFA francs.
* '''Wood and stakes''' : about 90,000 CFA francs.
* '''Ropes'''.
* '''Seedling trays''' : Variable costs, purchased occasionally (e.g., 30 trays at 1500 CFA francs = 45,000 CFA francs for a year if bought).
* '''Fuel for transport''' (motorbike deliveries): about 5 liters per week (variable, as deliveries are not daily).
* '''Delivery fees''' (when sending someone).
* '''Land rental''' : 300,000 - 350,000 CFA francs.
* '''Total estimated expenses around 600,000 CFA francs per year.'''

=== Income (Annual turnover): ===
The farm's total income is estimated between '''3 and 4 million CFA francs per year.'''

** '''Artemisia''' (medicinal plants): 50% to 60% of income.
** '''Fruits''' (papaya, pomegranate, noni, passion fruit): about 15%.
** '''Leafy vegetables and root vegetables''' : about 35% (the rest).

=== Commercial strategy / Markets ===
Sales are mainly '''by order.''' Ousmane assembles '''varied baskets''' (containing vegetables, fruits, aromatic plants) depending on availability. He also sells directly to neighbors who come to the farm. Sales at a local market (Fidji Rossé) have been paused. He sells his products daily. Compost is also sold in 50 kg bags at 4000 CFA francs per bag. Passion fruit is sold by the kilo, its price having doubled from 2500 to 5000 CFA francs per kilo due to strong demand and low local production. He also produces passion fruit juice, estimating production at about 1000 bottles per year.

== Farmer's advice ==
Ousmane's advice for those interested in agroecology is to remember three essential things: patience, the "green thumb" (things take when planted), and love for what you do. He insists that agroecology is not complicated if you have these qualities.

== Photo gallery ==
{{PhotosUrbane|album=94}}

== Sources ==
Interview with Ousmane Sambu conducted in 2025.
{{Pages liées}}
[[fr:Jardin de l'Espoir]]

Joseph Josue Farm

2026-06-19T14:35:20Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

Category:Pages vidéos avec un résumé long

2026-06-08T08:57:42Z

Bertrand Gorge:

__HIDDENCAT__

Category:National Center for Agroecology

2026-06-08T08:57:24Z

Bertrand Gorge: Created page with " See Structure:Centre National d'Agroécologie"

See [[Structure:Centre National d'Agroécologie]]

Category:Pages vidéos avec un résumé long

2026-06-08T08:56:47Z

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MediaWiki:Sitenotice

2026-06-08T08:55:59Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Met à jour ou bien créé les templates dans les autres wiki à partir de la version française - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/347

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2026-06-08T08:55:53Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Met à jour ou bien créé les templates dans les autres wiki à partir de la version française - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/347

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2026-06-08T08:55:53Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Met à jour ou bien créé les templates dans les autres wiki à partir de la version française - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/347

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2026-06-08T08:55:51Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Met à jour ou bien créé les templates dans les autres wiki à partir de la version française - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/347

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2026-06-08T08:55:51Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Met à jour ou bien créé les templates dans les autres wiki à partir de la version française - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/347

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2026-06-08T08:55:50Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Met à jour ou bien créé les templates dans les autres wiki à partir de la version française - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/347

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2026-06-08T08:55:50Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Met à jour ou bien créé les templates dans les autres wiki à partir de la version française - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/347

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Market gardening and Drought in Morocco: How to Cope? Jihad Elmalih

2026-06-08T08:53:56Z

Bertrand Gorge: Automated translation

{{Vidéo
|Titre=Market Gardening and Drought in Morocco: How to Cope? Jihad Elmalih
| Producteur=National Center for Agroecology
| Vignette=Thumbnail_youtube_uoq1VvBWqgY.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne=2026-06-04
| Durée=47 minutes
| Production=Market Gardening
| Vidéo=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoq1VvBWqgY
| Programme=Urbane
| Intervenants 0=Jihad Elmalih
| Mots-clés=Drought, Morocco
| Résumé=In this presentation, Jihad Elmalih, farmer and agroecology advisor, shares his experience at the Fessila farm in Morocco, a region facing increasing aridity. Confronted with extreme climatic conditions and poor soils, he implemented agroforestry systems inspired by traditional oases. These practices include living soil cultivation, the use of dense cover crops, planting windbreak hedges, and installing swales to optimize water management. These techniques have restored soil fertility and reduced water consumption by a factor of seven. Beyond technical aspects, Jihad Elmalih details the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) established by the RIAM network. This inclusive system, based on trust between producers and consumers, certifies agroecological farms while promoting knowledge sharing and access to short marketing circuits.
}}

This video was produced by the National Center for Agroecology (CNA) https://centre-national-agroecologie.fr/ as part of the URBANE project https://urbane-project.eu/, funded by the European Union.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Research Executive Agency (REA).

{{Transcription
|transcription=Vincent Levavasseur:
Hello everyone, we meet today for a webinar presenting agroecological practices in Morocco. This webinar is part of the Urban project, a project on the development of agroecological practices in Africa, in various countries. Today, we will focus especially on what is happening in Morocco, and we have the pleasure of welcoming Jihad Elmalih, who is a farmer and agroecology advisor in Morocco, who will present the work he does both on his farm and in the network he leads, including everything related to PGS, and he will explain what this acronym means.

Jihad Elmalih:
Thank you very much for the invitation. I am Jihad Elmalih, a former IT professional, currently a farmer and agroecology advisor, and co-founder of the agroecological farm Fessila. Regarding practices in Morocco, of course, they share common foundations with what is found in Europe or France, but the difference here is that we are moving from semi-arid to arid conditions after seven years of drought. Certainly, this year, we have a very strange phenomenon, with massive floods and precipitation concentrated in one month. So what I will present now are all the practices implemented either on our farm or on pilot farms we manage to meet the needs of each farm, both for producing fruits, vegetables, market gardening, edible forest, etc. And facing this climate change with very high temperatures and very little water or very high salinity. Next slide. So, as I said, I am Jihad Elmalih. I am co-owner or co-founder of the Fessila farm. Fessila is an old Arabic word meaning young shoot. We are located on a farm between Tiflet and Hermitserre, between Rabat and the Middle Atlas. So, we are far from the sea but somewhat close to the first mountains of the Middle Atlas, which create a very varied thermal gradient, as we will see on the next slide. All this, of course, came after a long bicycle trip that my wife and I chose to take. We were in a completely different sector from what we do now. I was in new technologies, IT, etc. My wife was in insurance, banking, etc. After a long bike trip, we discovered ancient practices in the Atlas mountains with very harsh conditions and very little water, etc. We were inspired by everything done in the Mediterranean to leave everything and settle on a family farm purchased in 2010. That is where we started discovering agroecology, but through practice, observation, etc. The family land bought in 2010 is in a very isolated area, as it is where the cheapest land is found, due to poor soils, etc. It is a land with less than 1% organic matter, precisely 0.7% organic matter initially, with 69% sand, meaning it retains very little water and organic matter, little biodiversity, as it is monoculture over hundreds or even thousands of hectares, with deep plowing, etc. And very strong winds as we are located in a wind corridor. And of course, a very wide thermal altitude range, from -4°C in mid-winter as we are very close to the Atlas mountains, up to 49°C sometimes exceeding 49°C up to 50°C in mid-summer, lasting several weeks or even months, especially between June and late August. And a 3% slope which, of course, increases soil erosion and carries away all organic matter outside the farm. So, faced with all this, the idea is to recreate the oasis system seen in Morocco, which dates back 2000 years and still works, with multiple vegetation layers, including trees, canopies, shrubs, etc., and very diverse vegetation with, in our context, market gardening on living soil. That is why, from the start, we chose to plant many trees, both as hedges to reduce wind speed, which greatly evaporates water, etc. We measured and it can reach up to 60 tons of water lost per day due to wind, increasing in summer. Then, of course, the agroforestry system, planting about a dozen species north-south, creates a shade play for market gardening, for the vegetable garden and vegetables planted at the foot of the trees. This is what we do in the photo, but it is a whole process to get here. Next. Here, for example, all these photos were taken between 2020 and 2020 in mid-summer, meaning July-August. We see both the number and production in three dimensions. That means we have apple trees, and on the same cubic meter, we move from two dimensions to three dimensions on the same area. And since we have a shade play, we plant according to light and heat. Of course, vegetables, leaves, etc., can receive morning sunlight, but from 2 p.m. zenith and after, they are shaded. For example, anacaceous and cucurbitaceous plants that like some heat are shaded in the morning but sunny in the afternoon. This system creates shade that allows crops to grow calmly under the canopy. Moreover, we can even extend the season of some leafy vegetables. For example, mesclun can be cut six to eight times even in mid-summer, whereas in areas without trees, only one or two cuts are possible in mid-summer. Then, of course, we used many cover crop mixes to both aerate the soil and cover it, because initially, we could use straw, etc. But with drought, straw prices rose from 5 dirhams per bale to 50-60 dirhams per bale, ten times more, making it impossible to buy straw. That is why we make covers with mixes of 6 to 10 species and fertilize the cover crop instead of fertilizing the vegetables. This results in a very dense cover. Here, for example, we see a yellow spade 1.60 m tall while the green cover crop has already exceeded the vegetables, meaning it is already 1.75 m tall, as we fertilize the cover crop, which produces more biomass and allows mowing at flowering, providing the soil with large organic matter and a rich rhizosphere with roots, which reduces pest pressure and nourishes soil life. We are on very poor soil, so it is essential to invite soil life that helps decompact and nourish it, especially our fungal friends who create glomalin to capture soil particles against erosion from slope and raindrop impact or even very strong winds. On the next page, we will see that this residue lasted three months without irrigation, meaning we lost the well. Certainly, some vegetables like peppers were burned, but vegetables continue to grow because of the very dense cover, ranging from 10 to 40 cm depending on the bed's previous input level and the shade created by trees and canopy. On other farms, we used almost the same technique, except here we went from 0 to 9% organic matter, with 77% sand, and a very acidic pH rising from 4 to 5.5. So, what we achieved in 10-15 years on our own farm took a lot of time to experiment, find the right mix, use support trees, adapt seeds to our terroir, etc. Currently, in one cycle, meaning one year on soils between 1 and 3 years old, very poor soils, etc., we manage to produce market garden crops the first year. On this soil, we started with orientation to install support trees and, as usual, hedges to reduce wind speed and evaporation. Then we moved to a green area, and the next photo shows the landscape changed with this cover, then we installed trees. We have beds from the same year. We started in October and already see residues of cover crops mowed and harvests less than a year after design, installation, and start of harvests. Besides cover crops, we also used strawy manure and ash to help regulate soil pH. We discovered a very interesting tree, Senna ciamia, which helps increase soil pH and resists very high salinity. We see the difference in two years on the same soil with many organic matter inputs, agroforestry, chop and drop in the sancturopic zone with support trees resistant to salinity and drought. We achieve a soil... You mentioned how? Chop and drop, mowing and leaving organic matter in place, whether shrubs planted for this or comfrey-like species, very famous in Europe but more drought-resistant, such as Mexican sunflower or Titonia diversifolia, which resists drought well and accumulates much organic matter. Here, in one to two years, we go from very sandy soil (77% sand) that retains little organic matter and has no structure, to a soil rich in glomalin, as seen by the soil color change and root richness in the rhizosphere. This is the first horizon taken from the same place, and the difference is two years of practice. Then, with all organic matter deposits, the soil invites a vast world of macro-organisms discovered on site. Initially, there were only a few woodlice. Year after year, we see fungal filaments, even vertebrates from epigeal fauna. Year after year, soil life establishes. Especially since the cycle is very short in Morocco, with long droughts and extended dormancy. That is why from the fourth or fifth year of agroforestry system installation, soil life extends even to early June, as we keep moisture and freshness as long as possible, whereas in the first years, we barely see it for 2-3 months maximum per year. We go from yellow soil resembling perrot, seen under the pomegranate tree at the bottom of the photo. Among other farms we supported, some have very steep slopes. There, we installed Bessières or Swales. It is fortunate because we discovered a Moroccan documentary from the 1950s where old farmers used Egyptian levels or water levels to follow contour lines and install swales that slow precipitation water. That is why in the same regions, olive trees over a century old still exist, fully autonomous, without maintenance, still fruiting. We installed these three years ago. This year, we received over 400 mm in one month, which is what we normally get in two years. We received it in three to four weeks, causing floods in major Moroccan cities. Over 200,000 people were evacuated in an area where cereals are grown and many breeders live. Soils with deep plowing lose porosity, whereas in our soils, no flooding occurred because porosity created by earthworms and tree roots allowed water absorption instead of puddles. Three years later, after floods across Morocco, the next slide shows no erosion, and swales are filled. Moreover, recent precipitation in March lasted 4 to 5 weeks. Behind each swale, there is a row of trees growing solely from the swale. This is a first, as farms starting now must irrigate weekly or even daily with rising temperatures. In this design, we made a metallic soil cover, as we did not have enough precipitation to start a green manure, so we sowed a mix of wild plants and weeds, and after precipitation, we have both water retention in swales and a mat that holds soil, as the soil shows bedrock through decades of erosion. Then production begins with different varieties. Here, we can grow carrots 30 to 35 cm long without tillage, straight of course, but only from the third year to achieve such yields. Then very slow leeks reaching 40-45 cm. Then the full diversity of vegetables with interesting calibers, proving agroecology can feed the population. These results were measured between 2016 and 2021. Economically, initially, we irrigated a lot as the system was just starting, consuming up to 3000 dirhams (about 300 euros) per month for irrigation to start the slope, etc. Between 2016 and 2021, we divided water input by seven through trees, cover crops, living soil, cover crop cycles, mowing and leaving all crop residues, weeds, tree leaves, pruning residues, etc. This also increased useful water reserve, reducing our water ratio. Also, the rainy period now lasts from October to March without irrigation, whereas initially, we irrigated almost daily, sometimes twice daily. There was a significant increase in organic matter over time, from 0.7-0.9 to 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.7, 1.8. Yields improved. We conducted a comparative study between our first five years and conventional growers. Conventional culture yields between 20 and 30 tons of eggplants per hectare, tested on three species. We reached about three tons between the third and fifth year. That means between 3 and 5 years, each bed, thanks to history, some used BRF, others fermented compost, different fertilizer cycles with different species, etc. Between 3 and 5 years, we reached the range of conventional yields, 20 to 30 tons, across three species: eggplants, tomatoes, and beets. The most exciting thing is that tomatoes even matched yield with varieties selected over six years. Working only with farmers on old varieties selected for disease resistance, drought resistance, and yield, after five or six years, yields went from 500 g to 1-1.5 kg per tomato plant up to 16-25 kg per plant, which is remarkable under very arid conditions.

Vincent Levavasseur:
How many tomato plants per square meter is your planting density?

Jihad Elmalih:
Two tomato plants per square meter. In a one-meter-wide bed, we create a single row of tomatoes spaced 50 cm apart, but next to it, there are other crops. That means tomatoes are associated with basil or other crops. So in the same square meter, there are two tomatoes but also other crops. For example, with kale, six kale plants and two tomatoes per square meter. Next slide. After all these series.

Vincent Levavasseur:
Classics... Sorry, Basiade. Not about economics, but can you live off your hectare, support one or two people, earn a salary comparable to a conventional market gardener in the region? How do you position yourself in terms of workload, overall turnover at the hectare scale, this kind of data which is also interesting?

Jihad Elmalih :
Yes, generally the first three to five years are not economically interesting at all, except for maximum diversity. For one reason, market gardening, for example, can be sold and commercialized in the first year. So that's not a problem, we can do a shared crop, we start in six months, eight months, ten months, we begin to have an amount of money. However, trees take time to grow, they take time to bear fruit. What we do is that all the profit, a large part of the income we calculate from everything related to market gardening, etc., helps us finance the first three to five years to take care of the trees, their purchase, irrigation, fertilization, pruning, etc. Guaranteeing a very sustainable and very profitable economy on small surfaces, like one hectare, two, three, etc. It is absolutely necessary to diversify as much as possible. So that's what we did: we produce fruits, vegetables, but also plants. We have a nursery on site, so we are autonomous in seeds, in plants. But on the other hand, we produce plants for about fifteen, even twenty farms, which generates a very interesting turnover. Then we also have a co-responsible poultry invader, so we also see broiler chickens, old breeds, eggs in the baskets or those who also order eggs. Then also in the production part, we have hive products, etc. We have diversified as much as possible, we can of course generate salaries, we can far exceed what we can earn in conventional farming. But if we base ourselves only on market gardening, we cannot have profitability. Besides all that, everything produced, meaning fruits, vegetables, aromatic and medicinal plants, market gardening plants, trees that we produce even on site, eggs, hive products, etc. So everything produced, on the side, we also have services. So training services, on-site reception services, there are people who come to spend a weekend, etc., eat healthy, agroecological food, take a tour, do self-covid, etc. So the service part, training, technical support, reception, training, etc. greatly helps to have diversity and especially money between the three and five first years which are a bit tricky. After, after five years, what happens is that we increase yields and reduce costs. Because then, the soil becomes alive. We no longer buy manure, we no longer buy compost, we no longer buy seeds because we become autonomous and so we reduce our water consumption and also increase yield. And so between decreasing expenses and increasing yield, of course profitability will gradually rise up to 2, 3, even 4 cents.

Vincent Levavasseur :
And how many tons do you produce of the different types of fruits, per fruit? Per hectare, if you have those figures?

Jihad Elmalih :
Actually, I don't have the exact figures in mind. I keep in mind, for example, the figures we made in Anvergine, etc. But on average, I believe that on a farm we recently manage, we manage to produce on 1000 square meters, 15 baskets, between 12 and 15 baskets per week. And the baskets weigh about a dozen kilos.

Vincent Levavasseur :
On the market gardening part.

Jihad Elmalih :
So only on the market gardening part. So the first and second year. So 1000 m² cultivated gives us about fifteen different species and gives us between 12 and 15 baskets weighing about a dozen kilos. Okay. And on the fruit part, you have?

Vincent Levavasseur :
Some figures at that time?

Jihad Elmalih :
The fruit part varies a lot. For example, olives, we currently manage to produce, on 8 millimeters squared, between 2 and 3 and a half tons. It all depends on whether we irrigate, whether we still have water or not. Then, for example, pomegranates, last year, in October, we harvested 32 kilos on one pomegranate tree. So that's an average, because there are trees that weigh 45 kilos, others a bit less, 25, 30, etc. And it varies, it all depends on whether we irrigate or not, whether we have enough water or not, whether we fertilize or not, etc. For example, the farm we currently manage, called Festila, we haven't managed it for almost four years, we live on site, etc. But on the other hand, we manage quite a few external projects. But it's the work we did over 10 years that gives us this freedom to come harvest even though we don't fertilize, we get little, etc. But there is a deposit of organic matter and crop residue that is constantly recycled. Very good.

Vincent Levavasseur :
That's the second part then?

Jihad Elmalih :
Exactly, so the second part is the participatory guarantee system, so we are part of a network called RIA, which is the abbreviation for the network of agroecological initiatives in Morocco, so it is a network that brings together producers, consumers, agronomists, acalbitians, researchers, intermediaries, processors, breeders, etc., but who are in the agroecological, permaculture, organic sphere, but especially agroecological. And all this is the result of a series of meetings between 2012 and 2014, which created a collective, which created a lot of exchanges, etc., which transformed into an association in 2015, the RIAB. And so, after two years of work throughout Morocco, they created a PGS in 2017, late 2017 early 2018, so the PGS is a participatory guarantee system since when a companion When we had a series of meetings, exchanges, etc., we saw that behind there are producers, consumers, but there still needs to be a guarantee system. Whereas the existing systems are all organic and do not really fit the Moroccan reality and everything economic, ecological, but also social. So we created the PGS, it is a participatory guarantee system that is very inclusive, meaning it brings together producers, consumers, and experts. And these three make the specifications, internal regulations, visit forms, and charges. And so the specifications, of course, are made inclusively through a series of meetings to see how we can improve practices, etc. And include them in the specifications with, of course, consumers who absolutely want to eat seasonal, because other labels completely neglect producing in season, etc. And producers who absolutely want to have short circuit sales, no need to export or travel all over Morocco to sell their vegetables, and so on. So that's where we came up with this system based on trust, sharing, and networking. And after a series, we released the first specification dedicated to plant production and then moved on to animal production, currently we have three specifications. The first is plant production, everything related to market gardening, etc., but especially market gardening. The second is agriculture. And the third is apiculture. We are also updating every year to improve practices and also develop updated specifications. Then, how does it work? We developed all the specifications, etc. How does it work? Next page, there are two main parts. The first part is the application part. Where the producer approaches the network, wants to absolutely join this network, meet all the producers, exchange practices, even exchange seeds, etc. He makes a first facilitation request. Facilitation is what? We send volunteers who go directly to the farm to see if the farm is labelable. Is it consistent with the specifications? Is the soil covered? Are there enough trees? Are there no-till practices? Is there a living soil market? Is the design very ecological? And so on. And we explain the specifications with everything that is prohibited, everything that is pesticides, chemical fertilizers, deep tillage, etc., everything that is prohibited, everything that is recommended and everything that is mandatory. Then, we invite the producer who requests certification, we invite him to training between their facilitation and the real request. We invite to participate in certification visits, training, exchange groups, forums that we organize, etc. And then, when he is ready, both his farm corresponds to the specifications and he is ready and motivated. Then he requests membership to the RIA, requests labeling with a signed and legalized letter of commitment, etc. And he sends it to the national PGS permission which will assign him to a local group based on geolocation, whether he is in Rabat, Kaza, Marrakech, Agadir, etc. We have branches all over Morocco. We also try to go a bit further south, where there are very few branches, gather as many actors as possible to get involved and manage an ecological transition at the national level. The second part is at the time of the request, we send three inspectors. The inspectors consist of a producer, a consumer. There must be at least three people, four, five, etc. But it is three who investigate with the investigation form, etc. They are producers, consumers, also experts who go to the farm. They are not the same people, meaning we do a random draw. So on each farm in turn, cycle, there are three people who investigate and visit the farm to see if the specifications are respected, etc. So, sending inspectors. Of course, there are observers who can come. For example, facilitators, those who come to request labeling, but they don't know how it works, etc. They can come to attend an inspection visit to see how it works, etc. And then, of course, there is an investigation form that will be several pages, etc., which will be filled out on the number of trees, what type of variety, what species to cultivate, a crop rotation scheme, what type of inputs, whether the inputs are created on site or purchased. If purchased, their traceability must be ensured, etc. And after all that, on the form, we saw the national committee which will organize the CONAC. It is a meeting where we locally gather all the farms, rather it is the colloquium that gathers all the farms that have been inspected in the same region. And then, of course, we move on to the next step which is the CONAC, the National Commission which will gather all the farms in question. And so, that is where we move to the second opinion, because the colloquium gives the first approval opinion, if it sees that there are prohibitions, etc. And then, the second opinion will be either favorable, unfavorable, or favorable but with recommendations. That means if there are farms that have a traceability problem on such or such a crop. If it is prohibited, it is no, unfavorable. If it is an obligation but not done, for example if we see that there is soil cover but not total or if the soil remains bare for more than a month or more than a month, it is favorable but with recommendations. We always come with the history to see if the permit holder has made efforts to improve soil cover, be more autonomous in seeds, or even exchange with other producers, etc. And so, there you see in the photo the specifications. This is a 2017 version, but every year, or every 2-3 years, we improve and release a new improved version. Or of course, there are recommendations that become obligations. Because even tillage at the start was not to exceed 20 cm, we move to not exceeding 10 cm and then we move to no tillage at all. This way we integrate this gentle and permanent transition to be as inclusive as possible and also to encourage small farmers in their transition. So I spoke about small farmers because the PGS is mainly made for small farmers because it costs at least ten times less than other labels. And in addition, you have access to training, seed hubs, a huge network that constantly gathers, either on networks, WhatsApp, Facebook, etc. Or physically through training. For example, tomorrow, we have a training on the PGS, but we will do a reminder of the basic principles of agroecology for those requesting adaptation for the first time, and so on. Today, there was a conference with Bernard Alonso on agroecology, etc. In Niagara and so on. So, every time, there are meetings, etc. To further popularize agroecological practices, but also the PGS which is an alternative to the label which is a local inclusive label based on respect for life. So the themes addressed, we have eight themes. In the specifications. We have land management and crop choice. That is where we talk about creative crop design. Is this monoculture pearl coming from diversity? Are crop choices based on resistant crops or are they crops that consume a lot of water, etc.? Then, the second part is all about soil management and fertilization. Soil management, is there tillage? Is there proper work? Is there cover? Is fertilization through natural fertilizers or synthetic fertilizers? Does the farm use fertilizers, but are they produced on site or purchased locally, or brought from afar, and so on. Their traceability, sometimes is it industrial or peasant production, and so on. The third part is all about prevention, work against diseases and pests, how they are managed, are they managed manually, through green fertilizers, through manures or natural solutions or are they chemically managed by other soil destruction tools. Then we have a part dedicated to plants and seeds, so we also look for good seed traceability, if they are F1 seeds treated with franchises it is prohibited, if they are standard seeds or agroecological seeds etc. It is even better. And the farm equipment because there are farms that are huge but on the other hand they keep a conventional part and the other agroecological because we find farms where it is a family farm where each heir cultivates in his own way but on the other hand we will not impose our way of thinking on everyone but on the other hand we just have to ensure that the two farms keep a distance to avoid treatments crossing over. In addition, farm equipment must absolutely be separated. Sprayers, all tools, etc. To avoid contamination, etc. We manage behind through soil analyses, specific residue analyses, etc. The sixth point is water management on the farm. Is there good water management on the farm? Has the farmer installed a cover, does the farmer cover his soil, cultivate for example species that are drought resistant, does he have a water management strategy, does he have open basins or are they covered with nets or trees, are there ditches, are there pits to stop water and so on. What means, for example, is water pumped by electric, gas, diesel, or renewable energy, etc. The seventh point is all about waste from painting, all inorganic waste, all plastic bags, etc. How are they managed, are they recycled or burned, etc. Are organic wastes valued in the form of compost, surface composting, or compost in other ways, or are they thrown away, etc. To have an impact also on the valorization of farm waste, whether it is mounted plants, crop residues, peelings, etc. And the eighth point which is very interesting, is the social point and also the working conditions of workers on the farm. Are they well paid, does the remuneration respect the SMIG or SMAG, the minimum agricultural wage in Morocco, do they have social benefits or not, can they have access to harvests for example, or meals, etc. To guarantee a balance between everything ecological, economic, but also social. So here are roughly the themes addressed in the specifications and which are of course in the investigation form which is nine pages long, which takes between half a day and half a day, or a bit more, depending on the size of the farm but also the diversity of employment. And at the end of the investigation of course, at the end of the commission, etc., the Moroccan agro-economic PGS conformity certificate is given to the producer, but for a maximum duration of one year. To be renewed each year to see improvements, whether the respect of practices is still there or if there is regression, progress, etc. And so far, in 2025, we have 48 farms labeled in Rabat, so we have many more farms between Rabat, Salé, Tiflens, etc. That is where Oriyam started and where there is a very lively agricultural zone around Rabat, it is not really Rabat the capital, but Zalangour, 22 farms in Marrakech and 19 in Casablanca, on an area of 800 hectares between only Rabat and Marrakech, Casablanca is a bit more. So we can go up to 1000 hectares cultivated in agroecology only in PGS while there are other farms cultivating in other regions where PGS is not yet introduced. So currently we introduced this year in 2026 a new region but they will probably be labeled this year at the end of this month.

Vincent Levavasseur :
The valorization a bit there of the farmers of this label, how do they manage to benefit from all these efforts that are made?

Jihad Elmalih :
Yes, that's very interesting, so on the one hand it's access to a huge network, exchange networks, etc., and currently there are quite a few restaurants, quite a few farmers' markets, that guarantee access only if you have the SPG. So if, for example, already among consumers, there are other sectors, there is catering, etc. There are restaurants that are committed and absolutely want to have products that are SPG labeled, because they were, of course, among the people who developed the specifications, etc. So they know very, very well the value of the SPG. Then for the producer it is also a network and in addition to that there are 2 to 3 weekly farmers' markets that bring together only producers in SFG. Of course, to avoid that a producer in agroecology goes through a very, very slow circuit or a conventional circuit where there were ten years ago about fifteen intermediaries. The SPE markets are markets that we are always working to improve, to distribute as much as possible, because it requires a lot of time, a lot of work, a lot of budget, a lot of authorization. The two to three markets currently are evening spaces. For example, there is one in a church where they have a green space, etc. They are very much in agreement with all that. Another one is in an archiculture club, etc. There are other Marrakechs that are... In a public garden, but through a series of authorizations, we were able to organize this market. In Casablanca, it is a farm, it is in a farm that we organized all that, etc. So, to hold a market in a public place, it takes a lot of time, etc. So, that is why at the same time we do the popularization part, the networking part, etc., but also a part of advocacy, awareness-raising both for consumers, but advocacy towards the State to recognize the SPG and also to recognize agroecology as a means, not only of production, but as a way of life that brings together economy, ecology and social aspects.

Vincent Levavasseur :
Thank you very much, that's very clear. I think on the guarantee system part, we have explained well how it works. Everything can be found on the RIAM website, if we want to find the map of producers, information related to the market, information related to the SPG, it is on the RIAM website, right?

Jihad Elmalih :
Exactly on the RIAM website which we will soon update as well and we will also work on an application and a dedicated website for the marketing of SPG labeled products to facilitate the task for producers. Personally, as a producer, marketing and looking for consumers, etc., is a full-time job that takes a lot of time and of course we want that time for production, etc. And so if we delegate this part to other people or on a website or an application that facilitates this task, we will produce better, we will focus even more on our practices and improve our practices to better manage this transition. In addition to that, we are currently entering the seventh year of drought. Certainly, we had an exception this year with some rainfall, but they caused a lot of flooding on soils that are not lignified, etc. But on the other hand, directly after, we have very, very hard rises. And so, to continue always the research, the exchanges, etc. For practices that both resist drought but also salinity. Because with drought, we have a lot of salinity in the water, in the soils, which greatly reduces yields. And each time, we try new things, we integrate certain shrubs and try to see the results gradually.

Vincent Levavasseur :
Understood, thank you very much for all this information and these presentations. So there will be other webinars held in other countries, notably one planned in Senegal and Benin as part of the Urban project. I will let you conclude the presentation.

Jihad Elmalih :
Jeanne, the end of the month. Yes, well listen, thank you very much for the invitation. Everything that Verde Terre Productions, the National School of Agroecology do and all the practitioners do to advance agronomy, to make it as ecological as possible, as sustainable and more accessible to everyone is very interesting for me. And here, I invite you to visit us in Morocco if you ever come to Morocco. If you have any questions, with great pleasure.
}}

{{Résumé long
|Résumé=== Market gardening and drought in Morocco: how to cope? ==

As part of the Urban project, dedicated to the development of agroecological practices in Africa, the webinar welcomed '''Jihad Elmalih''', farmer, agroecology advisor and co-founder of the '''Fessila''' farm in Morocco. He shares here his feedback on the transition towards resilient systems facing an increasingly arid climate.

== Pedoclimatic context in Morocco ==

The Fessila farm, located between Tiflet and Khémisset, illustrates the challenges of Moroccan market gardening. After seven years of drought, the region now oscillates between extreme drought and sudden flooding episodes. The initial characteristics of the land were difficult:
* Less than 1% organic matter (0.7%).
* Soil 69% sandy, retaining very little water.
* Extreme thermal amplitude (-4°C in winter, up to 50°C in summer).
* Constant wind causing high evapotranspiration.

== Agroecological adaptation strategies ==

To recreate an "oasis"-type system, Jihad Elmalih implemented several key techniques:

* '''Agroforestry:''' Planting about a dozen tree species in hedges and complex systems reduces wind speed and creates a beneficial shade effect for crops. This three-dimensional system allows for staggered production and better temperature control for vegetables.
* '''Soil management:''' Abandoning deep plowing and massively adding organic matter transformed the soil structure. The use of green manures (mixtures of 6 to 10 species) and "chop and drop" techniques (mowing and mulching in place) promotes soil life and the development of glomalin, essential for water retention and erosion control.
* '''Water harvesting:''' Installing "baissières" (swales) following contour lines slows down and infiltrates rainwater. These structures have eliminated erosion and reduced irrigation needs by a factor of seven over five years.
* '''Varietal selection:''' The farm favors locally adapted farmer seeds, which has significantly increased yields (e.g., from 500g to more than 15kg per tomato plant after 6 years of selection).

== Economic viability and diversification ==

The transition to agroecology requires a 3 to 5-year period during which profitability is more fragile. To address this, the farm's economic model relies on:
* '''Diversification:''' Fruits, vegetables, aromatic and medicinal plants, poultry, beekeeping, and nursery.
* '''Services:''' Training, farm visits, and technical advice, which provide a stable income during the first years.
* '''Cost reduction:''' Autonomy in seeds, compost, and reduced needs for external inputs progressively strengthen profitability.

== The Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) ==

The network of agroecological initiatives in Morocco ('''RIAM''') established in 2017 a specific guarantee system to meet the needs of small producers: the PGS.

Unlike industrial certifications, the PGS is an inclusive tool based on trust and networking:
# '''Co-constructed specifications:''' Defined by producers, consumers, and experts.
# '''Investigation process:''' A commission composed of producers and consumers visits farms to validate compliance with practices (covered soil, absence of chemical products, water management, social conditions of workers).
# '''Continuous improvement:''' The certificate is issued for one year and encourages the producer to progress (e.g., from shallow plowing to no-till).

Today, the network counts hundreds of certified hectares around Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech, thus offering a concrete and accessible alternative for small Moroccan farmers. The project continues to develop with digital marketing tools to free up farmers' time and strengthen their resilience to climate change.

}}
[[fr:Maraîchage et Sécheresse au Maroc : Comment faire face ? Jihad Elmalih]]

Andy Dibben talks why he's researching strip tillage on his market garden

2026-05-29T14:09:01Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Andy Dibben talks why he's researching strip tillage on his market garden
| Producteur = Innovative Farmers
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_0glYdMS9iAA.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2023-08-21
| Durée = 3 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0glYdMS9iAA
| Mots-clés =
}}

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = my name is Andy dibbon and I'm head my name is Andy dibbon and I'm head my name is Andy dibbon and I'm head grower at Abbey home Farm in grower at Abbey home Farm in grower at Abbey home Farm in gloucestershire and I grave 15 Acres of gloucestershire and I grave 15 Acres of gloucestershire and I grave 15 Acres of organic veg so my job as head grower organic veg so my job as head grower organic veg so my job as head grower here at the farm is to try and Supply here at the farm is to try and Supply here at the farm is to try and Supply the shop with as many different kinds of the shop with as many different kinds of the shop with as many different kinds of fruit and vegetables for 12 months of fruit and vegetables for 12 months of fruit and vegetables for 12 months of the year and we do that using field the year and we do that using field the year and we do that using field scale production intensive Market Garden scale production intensive Market Garden scale production intensive Market Garden production polytunnel production and production polytunnel production and production polytunnel production and Glass House production so the key thing Glass House production so the key thing Glass House production so the key thing about this field lab we're starting on about this field lab we're starting on about this field lab we're starting on this year is we're looking to establish this year is we're looking to establish this year is we're looking to establish living mulches that we strip tillage living mulches that we strip tillage living mulches that we strip tillage into and this is a technique that should into and this is a technique that should into and this is a technique that should prevent us from having to plow fields prevent us from having to plow fields prevent us from having to plow fields and disrupt that very complex ecosystem and disrupt that very complex ecosystem and disrupt that very complex ecosystem of soil the reasons we're interested in of soil the reasons we're interested in of soil the reasons we're interested in trialling this new technique is that trialling this new technique is that trialling this new technique is that with all the latest soil science it's with all the latest soil science it's with all the latest soil science it's become really clear that every time you become really clear that every time you become really clear that every time you disrupt the soil you disrupt mycelium disrupt the soil you disrupt mycelium disrupt the soil you disrupt mycelium networks and you disrupt the biotic life networks and you disrupt the biotic life networks and you disrupt the biotic life of the soil the less you disrupt these of the soil the less you disrupt these of the soil the less you disrupt these the better your crops will become both the better your crops will become both the better your crops will become both in resistance to pests but also in resistance to pests but also in resistance to pests but also increases in visual quality and yield increases in visual quality and yield increases in visual quality and yield it'll also prevent release of carbon it'll also prevent release of carbon it'll also prevent release of carbon from cultivated soil which is crucial from cultivated soil which is crucial from cultivated soil which is crucial for climate change at the moment for climate change at the moment for climate change at the moment so strip tilling in Horticulture is a so strip tilling in Horticulture is a so strip tilling in Horticulture is a new technique we're looking at currently new technique we're looking at currently new technique we're looking at currently we have a cover crop that covers a whole we have a cover crop that covers a whole we have a cover crop that covers a whole field I then plow that whole field to field I then plow that whole field to field I then plow that whole field to put a line of crops in every 75 put a line of crops in every 75 put a line of crops in every 75 centimeters this results in the field centimeters this results in the field centimeters this results in the field being largely bare apart from the crop being largely bare apart from the crop being largely bare apart from the crop through the duration of that cropping through the duration of that cropping through the duration of that cropping season the strip tillage system is season the strip tillage system is season the strip tillage system is looking at just cultivating strips where looking at just cultivating strips where looking at just cultivating strips where I'm going to put the crop and leaving I'm going to put the crop and leaving I'm going to put the crop and leaving the cover crop in place which I don't the cover crop in place which I don't the cover crop in place which I don't need to cultivate massively reducing the need to cultivate massively reducing the need to cultivate massively reducing the disruption of the soil that currently disruption of the soil that currently disruption of the soil that currently happens what this looks like is rather happens what this looks like is rather happens what this looks like is rather than turning a whole green field into a than turning a whole green field into a than turning a whole green field into a completely bare field of bare Earth it completely bare field of bare Earth it completely bare field of bare Earth it will actually be uh you'll be looking at will actually be uh you'll be looking at will actually be uh you'll be looking at a field that essentially has strips of a field that essentially has strips of a field that essentially has strips of cultivated soil across it and probably cultivated soil across it and probably cultivated soil across it and probably lead to us cultivating about 30 percent lead to us cultivating about 30 percent lead to us cultivating about 30 percent of that field rather than a hundred of that field rather than a hundred of that field rather than a hundred percent of the field percent of the field percent of the field so a key part of this process is so a key part of this process is so a key part of this process is establishing that green manure or the establishing that green manure or the establishing that green manure or the living mulch before we go anywhere near living mulch before we go anywhere near living mulch before we go anywhere near growing the vegetable crop itself this growing the vegetable crop itself this growing the vegetable crop itself this involves picking the right species for involves picking the right species for involves picking the right species for the mix and it is crucial to control the mix and it is crucial to control the mix and it is crucial to control perennial weeds before you establish perennial weeds before you establish perennial weeds before you establish these cover crops these cover crops these cover crops it says year one of doing this is a it says year one of doing this is a it says year one of doing this is a structured trial and that's really structured trial and that's really structured trial and that's really exciting because there's it means I get exciting because there's it means I get exciting because there's it means I get to work with lots of other farmers who to work with lots of other farmers who to work with lots of other farmers who are doing this but for me it's really are doing this but for me it's really are doing this but for me it's really exciting because it's something I've exciting because it's something I've exciting because it's something I've been playing around with on the farm been playing around with on the farm been playing around with on the farm kind of like just with out of kind of like just with out of kind of like just with out of intellectual interest and now we're intellectual interest and now we're intellectual interest and now we're really getting into the meat of the really getting into the meat of the really getting into the meat of the subject measuring the effects of the subject measuring the effects of the subject measuring the effects of the techniques we're using and comparing a techniques we're using and comparing a techniques we're using and comparing a few different potential techniques for few different potential techniques for few different potential techniques for carrying out this new system carrying out this new system carrying out this new system the benefits of this practice if it the benefits of this practice if it the benefits of this practice if it proves to work after trialing it for a proves to work after trialing it for a proves to work after trialing it for a few years should be a reduction in few years should be a reduction in few years should be a reduction in carbon release through cultivations a carbon release through cultivations a carbon release through cultivations a boost in biodiversity through increased boost in biodiversity through increased boost in biodiversity through increased plant species in the field and hopefully plant species in the field and hopefully plant species in the field and hopefully a stronger more vigorous and better a stronger more vigorous and better a stronger more vigorous and better looking crop as a food producer as a looking crop as a food producer as a looking crop as a food producer as a commercial business we need to make sure commercial business we need to make sure commercial business we need to make sure the new technique delivers similar crop the new technique delivers similar crop the new technique delivers similar crop quality and similar yields so there's quality and similar yields so there's quality and similar yields so there's lots to do on this project this year and lots to do on this project this year and lots to do on this project this year and we're all excited here at the farm to we're all excited here at the farm to we're all excited here at the farm to get stuck in so although it will be a get stuck in so although it will be a get stuck in so although it will be a change to what we normally do it's a change to what we normally do it's a change to what we normally do it's a change we're all excited about embracing change we're all excited about embracing change we're all excited about embracing and in actual fact if the technique and in actual fact if the technique and in actual fact if the technique works it actually makes our lives works it actually makes our lives works it actually makes our lives quicker and easier in the future and it quicker and easier in the future and it quicker and easier in the future and it also makes me into a much more efficient also makes me into a much more efficient also makes me into a much more efficient farmer with less Financial outputs and farmer with less Financial outputs and farmer with less Financial outputs and hopefully more financial inputs from a hopefully more financial inputs from a hopefully more financial inputs from a better crop
}}

Regenerative Realities: What Soil Health Means on the Ground

2026-05-29T14:08:56Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Regenerative Realities: What Soil Health Means on the Ground
| Producteur = British Society of Soil Science
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_ZfFX6JC54vM.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2025-04-21
| Durée = 49 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfFX6JC54vM
| Mots-clés = soil, soils, science, environment, geography, geology, earth science, soil science, ecology, british society of soil science
}}

Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming that focuses on restoring and enhancing the health of the soil, enhancing ecosystems and also supporting the communities that sustain them. The practice emphasizes the regeneration of topsoil, increasing biodiversity, improving the water cycle and strengthening the health and vitality of farm soil. Key principles include minimal soil disturbance, diversifying crop rotations and integrating livestock by prioritizing soil health. Regenerative agriculture aims to create resilient farming systems that can adapt to climate change, improve food security and support sustainable agricultural practices.

Professor Anna Krzywoszynska is an environmental social scientist at the University of Oulu in Finland. Professor Lynn Dicks is a conservation scientist at the University of Cambridge, and Raquel Falcão is completing her PhD at the Czech Technical University in Prague. Professor Leo Condron is the Editor-in-Chief of the Soil Use and Management journal (SUM) which is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2025.

The podcast is inspired by two articles published recently in the journal. The first is called Sustainable soil management in the United Kingdom: A survey of current practices and how they relate to the principles of regenerative agriculture. The second is called Farmers' perception of soil health: The use of quality data and its implication for farm management.

For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters (https://soils.org.uk/soilmatters/)

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = [Music] My name is Paul Lincoln and I'm your My name is Paul Lincoln and I'm your My name is Paul Lincoln and I'm your host for Soil Matters, a podcast from host for Soil Matters, a podcast from host for Soil Matters, a podcast from the British Society of Soil Science, the the British Society of Soil Science, the the British Society of Soil Science, the professional body for soil scientists in professional body for soil scientists in professional body for soil scientists in the UK. Welcome to our second episode. the UK. Welcome to our second episode. the UK. Welcome to our second episode. Soil Matters is dedicated to bridging Soil Matters is dedicated to bridging Soil Matters is dedicated to bridging the gap between scientific research and the gap between scientific research and the gap between scientific research and real world application. And today we're real world application. And today we're real world application. And today we're looking at the issue of regenerative looking at the issue of regenerative looking at the issue of regenerative agriculture and soil health. agriculture and soil health. agriculture and soil health. Regenerative agriculture is an approach Regenerative agriculture is an approach Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming that focuses on restoring and to farming that focuses on restoring and to farming that focuses on restoring and enhancing the health of the soil, enhancing the health of the soil, enhancing the health of the soil, enhancing ecosystems, and also enhancing ecosystems, and also enhancing ecosystems, and also supporting the communities that sustain supporting the communities that sustain supporting the communities that sustain them. The practice emphasizes the them. The practice emphasizes the them. The practice emphasizes the regeneration of top soil, increasing regeneration of top soil, increasing regeneration of top soil, increasing biodiversity, improving the water cycle, biodiversity, improving the water cycle, biodiversity, improving the water cycle, and strengthening the health and and strengthening the health and and strengthening the health and vitality of farm soil. Key principles vitality of farm soil. Key principles vitality of farm soil. Key principles include minimal soil disturbance, include minimal soil disturbance, include minimal soil disturbance, diversifying crop rotations, and diversifying crop rotations, and diversifying crop rotations, and integrating livestock by prioritizing integrating livestock by prioritizing integrating livestock by prioritizing soil health. Regenerative agriculture soil health. Regenerative agriculture soil health. Regenerative agriculture aims to create resilient farming systems aims to create resilient farming systems aims to create resilient farming systems that can adapt to climate change, that can adapt to climate change, that can adapt to climate change, improve food security, and support improve food security, and support improve food security, and support sustainable agricultural practices. To sustainable agricultural practices. To sustainable agricultural practices. To discuss these topics today, I'm discuss these topics today, I'm discuss these topics today, I'm delighted to welcome Professor Anna delighted to welcome Professor Anna delighted to welcome Professor Anna Shinskosska, Professor Lind Dixs, and Shinskosska, Professor Lind Dixs, and Shinskosska, Professor Lind Dixs, and Raquel Fako. Anna is an environmental Raquel Fako. Anna is an environmental Raquel Fako. Anna is an environmental social scientist at the University of social scientist at the University of social scientist at the University of Ulu in Finland. Lynn is a conservation Ulu in Finland. Lynn is a conservation Ulu in Finland. Lynn is a conservation scientist at the University of Cambridge scientist at the University of Cambridge scientist at the University of Cambridge and Raquel is completing her PhD at the and Raquel is completing her PhD at the and Raquel is completing her PhD at the Czech Technical University in Prague. Czech Technical University in Prague. Czech Technical University in Prague. We're also going to be joined a little We're also going to be joined a little We're also going to be joined a little later by the editor-inchief of soil use later by the editor-inchief of soil use later by the editor-inchief of soil use and management, Leo Condrron. Our and management, Leo Condrron. Our and management, Leo Condrron. Our discussion is inspired by two articles discussion is inspired by two articles discussion is inspired by two articles published recently in the journal soil published recently in the journal soil published recently in the journal soil use and management. The first of the use and management. The first of the use and management. The first of the articles is called sustainable soil articles is called sustainable soil articles is called sustainable soil management in the United Kingdom. A management in the United Kingdom. A management in the United Kingdom. A survey of current practices and how they survey of current practices and how they survey of current practices and how they relate to the principles of regenerative relate to the principles of regenerative relate to the principles of regenerative agriculture. Sustainable soil management agriculture. Sustainable soil management agriculture. Sustainable soil management is essential to prevent agricultural is essential to prevent agricultural is essential to prevent agricultural soil degradation to maintain food soil degradation to maintain food soil degradation to maintain food production and core soil-based ecosystem production and core soil-based ecosystem production and core soil-based ecosystem services. Regenerative agriculture, one services. Regenerative agriculture, one services. Regenerative agriculture, one approach to sustainable soil management, approach to sustainable soil management, approach to sustainable soil management, is rapidly gaining traction in UK is rapidly gaining traction in UK is rapidly gaining traction in UK farming and policy. However, what this farming and policy. However, what this farming and policy. However, what this article indicates is that it is unclear article indicates is that it is unclear article indicates is that it is unclear what farmers themselves consider to be what farmers themselves consider to be what farmers themselves consider to be sustainable soil management practices sustainable soil management practices sustainable soil management practices and how these might relate to the and how these might relate to the and how these might relate to the principles of regenerative principles of regenerative principles of regenerative agriculture. Our first guest, Anna, agriculture. Our first guest, Anna, agriculture. Our first guest, Anna, initiated the research and collected the initiated the research and collected the initiated the research and collected the data underpinning the article. And our data underpinning the article. And our data underpinning the article. And our second guest, Lynn, is leading a project second guest, Lynn, is leading a project second guest, Lynn, is leading a project on farmer regeneration and agricultural on farmer regeneration and agricultural on farmer regeneration and agricultural monitoring. Anna, welcome. Tell us first monitoring. Anna, welcome. Tell us first monitoring. Anna, welcome. Tell us first of all what led you to undertake this of all what led you to undertake this of all what led you to undertake this research. Thank you Paul. I'm delighted research. Thank you Paul. I'm delighted research. Thank you Paul. I'm delighted to be here. Well, we talk a lot about to be here. Well, we talk a lot about to be here. Well, we talk a lot about sustainable soil management and we talk sustainable soil management and we talk sustainable soil management and we talk a lot about soil health and these topics a lot about soil health and these topics a lot about soil health and these topics are relatively well researched within are relatively well researched within are relatively well researched within soil sciences. But ultimately if we're soil sciences. But ultimately if we're soil sciences. But ultimately if we're talking about sustainable soil talking about sustainable soil talking about sustainable soil management, we are talking about how management, we are talking about how management, we are talking about how people treat soils. And if we're talking people treat soils. And if we're talking people treat soils. And if we're talking about soil health, we're talking about about soil health, we're talking about about soil health, we're talking about an outcome that is going to be arrived an outcome that is going to be arrived an outcome that is going to be arrived at by people's actions. And actually, we at by people's actions. And actually, we at by people's actions. And actually, we know very little about what people know very little about what people know very little about what people already do and how they assess the already do and how they assess the already do and how they assess the sustainability of what they do. So this sustainability of what they do. So this sustainability of what they do. So this was the underpinning motivation uh for was the underpinning motivation uh for was the underpinning motivation uh for this piece of work. there is very little this piece of work. there is very little this piece of work. there is very little social science and humanities research social science and humanities research social science and humanities research on soils and it was a very important gap on soils and it was a very important gap on soils and it was a very important gap to start to bridge. Therefore, we wanted to start to bridge. Therefore, we wanted to start to bridge. Therefore, we wanted to really ask a a series of quite simple to really ask a a series of quite simple to really ask a a series of quite simple questions about what farmers are already questions about what farmers are already questions about what farmers are already doing in relation to their soils and doing in relation to their soils and doing in relation to their soils and whether they judge these practices to whether they judge these practices to whether they judge these practices to constitute sustainable soil management. constitute sustainable soil management. constitute sustainable soil management. and how does this then link to and how does this then link to and how does this then link to regenerative agriculture which I'm sure regenerative agriculture which I'm sure regenerative agriculture which I'm sure we'll talk more about in a moment. Thank we'll talk more about in a moment. Thank we'll talk more about in a moment. Thank you. Now your research shows it is you. Now your research shows it is you. Now your research shows it is unclear what farmers consider to be unclear what farmers consider to be unclear what farmers consider to be sustainable soil management practices. sustainable soil management practices. sustainable soil management practices. Tell us a bit about how you put the Tell us a bit about how you put the Tell us a bit about how you put the research together. Um sure. Well I think research together. Um sure. Well I think research together. Um sure. Well I think you know within scientific research we you know within scientific research we you know within scientific research we like to have specific definitions but uh like to have specific definitions but uh like to have specific definitions but uh in the real world amongst people this is in the real world amongst people this is in the real world amongst people this is not how anything works. If you ask a not how anything works. If you ask a not how anything works. If you ask a person what they consider to be health, person what they consider to be health, person what they consider to be health, human health, they will give you a range human health, they will give you a range human health, they will give you a range of answers. And the same thing pertains of answers. And the same thing pertains of answers. And the same thing pertains to sustainable soil management, what to sustainable soil management, what to sustainable soil management, what farmers and other land workers consider farmers and other land workers consider farmers and other land workers consider to be healthy soil really differs on the to be healthy soil really differs on the to be healthy soil really differs on the basis of their experience in different basis of their experience in different basis of their experience in different farms, different contexts, different farms, different contexts, different farms, different contexts, different values, different production systems. So values, different production systems. So values, different production systems. So it's not in any way surprising that we it's not in any way surprising that we it's not in any way surprising that we have a number of different have a number of different have a number of different interpretations and understandings of interpretations and understandings of interpretations and understandings of what sustainable management is. What one what sustainable management is. What one what sustainable management is. What one person judges to be sustainable for person judges to be sustainable for person judges to be sustainable for example economically another person may example economically another person may example economically another person may not judge to be s. So I think what's not judge to be s. So I think what's not judge to be s. So I think what's important for us as scientists to know important for us as scientists to know important for us as scientists to know and to really take seriously is that and to really take seriously is that and to really take seriously is that there is such a diversity. So instead of there is such a diversity. So instead of there is such a diversity. So instead of trying to force people into narrow boxes trying to force people into narrow boxes trying to force people into narrow boxes that they will never conform to because that they will never conform to because that they will never conform to because people never do and why should they? We people never do and why should they? We people never do and why should they? We have to understand that there is this have to understand that there is this have to understand that there is this diversity there and we have to work with diversity there and we have to work with diversity there and we have to work with it. So we shouldn't assume that there is it. So we shouldn't assume that there is it. So we shouldn't assume that there is one solution or form of advice that will one solution or form of advice that will one solution or form of advice that will work for everybody. We need to know in work for everybody. We need to know in work for everybody. We need to know in fact much more about what is already fact much more about what is already fact much more about what is already done. how people judge the done. how people judge the done. how people judge the sustainability of these practices and sustainability of these practices and sustainability of these practices and then how can we build on these existing then how can we build on these existing then how can we build on these existing understandings and values and concerns understandings and values and concerns understandings and values and concerns in our work as we're trying to improve in our work as we're trying to improve in our work as we're trying to improve soil health overall. You also look at soil health overall. You also look at soil health overall. You also look at the issue of how soil management is the issue of how soil management is the issue of how soil management is currently promoted in agricultural currently promoted in agricultural currently promoted in agricultural knowledge and innovation services. What knowledge and innovation services. What knowledge and innovation services. What did you discover in that part of your did you discover in that part of your did you discover in that part of your research? research? research? Well, we've looked at different advisory Well, we've looked at different advisory Well, we've looked at different advisory services and campaigns and other sources services and campaigns and other sources services and campaigns and other sources of information that farmers may have of information that farmers may have of information that farmers may have access to in order to see who is talking access to in order to see who is talking access to in order to see who is talking about sustainable soil management and in about sustainable soil management and in about sustainable soil management and in what way. Is there a centralized what way. Is there a centralized what way. Is there a centralized resource, a most trusted entity that resource, a most trusted entity that resource, a most trusted entity that people tend to go to or do we have a people tend to go to or do we have a people tend to go to or do we have a much more fragmented landscape and the much more fragmented landscape and the much more fragmented landscape and the answer is the latter. The landscape is answer is the latter. The landscape is answer is the latter. The landscape is fragmented sustainable. Soil management fragmented sustainable. Soil management fragmented sustainable. Soil management tends to be an add-on or an element of tends to be an add-on or an element of tends to be an add-on or an element of different forms of advice. And on the different forms of advice. And on the different forms of advice. And on the one hand, there's nothing wrong with one hand, there's nothing wrong with one hand, there's nothing wrong with that because of course soils underpin that because of course soils underpin that because of course soils underpin and are part of all range of ecosystem and are part of all range of ecosystem and are part of all range of ecosystem services, all range of societal action. services, all range of societal action. services, all range of societal action. So it's absolutely right that if we talk So it's absolutely right that if we talk So it's absolutely right that if we talk about water quality, there should be an about water quality, there should be an about water quality, there should be an element of water there. If we are element of water there. If we are element of water there. If we are talking about productivity, then there talking about productivity, then there talking about productivity, then there should be an element of soil there. If should be an element of soil there. If should be an element of soil there. If we're talking about ecosystem health and we're talking about ecosystem health and we're talking about ecosystem health and environmental protection, so should be environmental protection, so should be environmental protection, so should be there also. So that is absolutely fine. there also. So that is absolutely fine. there also. So that is absolutely fine. But at the same time, there it was clear But at the same time, there it was clear But at the same time, there it was clear from our findings was that there isn't a from our findings was that there isn't a from our findings was that there isn't a coherent source of information on coherent source of information on coherent source of information on sustainable soil management. And that is sustainable soil management. And that is sustainable soil management. And that is an issue because as farmers are becoming an issue because as farmers are becoming an issue because as farmers are becoming more interested in improving their soil more interested in improving their soil more interested in improving their soil health, they really need access to good health, they really need access to good health, they really need access to good advice, good information. A lot of advice, good information. A lot of advice, good information. A lot of projects have been funded by the uh projects have been funded by the uh projects have been funded by the uh European Horizon Mission. Um there is European Horizon Mission. Um there is European Horizon Mission. Um there is increasing attention from NOS's. increasing attention from NOS's. increasing attention from NOS's. Regenerative agriculture continues to Regenerative agriculture continues to Regenerative agriculture continues to grow and there are now dedicated grow and there are now dedicated grow and there are now dedicated regenerative agriculture advisors out regenerative agriculture advisors out regenerative agriculture advisors out there that farmers have access to. So I there that farmers have access to. So I there that farmers have access to. So I think we need to refresh our think we need to refresh our think we need to refresh our understanding and see what happens understanding and see what happens understanding and see what happens there. But I think overall that what's there. But I think overall that what's there. But I think overall that what's really striking from the findings and really striking from the findings and really striking from the findings and from my broader research is that what we from my broader research is that what we from my broader research is that what we really need is holistic advice. So it's really need is holistic advice. So it's really need is holistic advice. So it's one thing to say a tillage practice of one thing to say a tillage practice of one thing to say a tillage practice of this kind is likely to improve your soil this kind is likely to improve your soil this kind is likely to improve your soil health that continues to be a health that continues to be a health that continues to be a fragmentaryary perspective. What we need fragmentaryary perspective. What we need fragmentaryary perspective. What we need is advice that takes a holistic approach is advice that takes a holistic approach is advice that takes a holistic approach to the farm and the farm business so to the farm and the farm business so to the farm and the farm business so that farmers can be supported and led in that farmers can be supported and led in that farmers can be supported and led in such a way that soil health is a result such a way that soil health is a result such a way that soil health is a result is an outcome of the transformation of is an outcome of the transformation of is an outcome of the transformation of the farm overall. I was really the farm overall. I was really the farm overall. I was really interested if I can just go back to your interested if I can just go back to your interested if I can just go back to your comment on the analogies with our sense comment on the analogies with our sense comment on the analogies with our sense of human health and I think it's of human health and I think it's of human health and I think it's reasonable to say that we generally do reasonable to say that we generally do reasonable to say that we generally do not have a consistent sense of what is not have a consistent sense of what is not have a consistent sense of what is good or bad help. Are you optimistic good or bad help. Are you optimistic good or bad help. Are you optimistic that one could come up with definitions that one could come up with definitions that one could come up with definitions of soil health that are maybe more of soil health that are maybe more of soil health that are maybe more focused, narrower, more easy to debate focused, narrower, more easy to debate focused, narrower, more easy to debate and discuss than the ones that we impose and discuss than the ones that we impose and discuss than the ones that we impose on ourselves? I don't think that we need on ourselves? I don't think that we need on ourselves? I don't think that we need a clear definition from the perspective a clear definition from the perspective a clear definition from the perspective of societal change towards soil health. of societal change towards soil health. of societal change towards soil health. That is not where our energy should be That is not where our energy should be That is not where our energy should be going because it's not a clear going because it's not a clear going because it's not a clear understanding of what health constitutes understanding of what health constitutes understanding of what health constitutes that will bring the change about. What that will bring the change about. What that will bring the change about. What will bring the change about is enabling will bring the change about is enabling will bring the change about is enabling the actors who can do something such as the actors who can do something such as the actors who can do something such as farmers to take steps towards a goal. farmers to take steps towards a goal. farmers to take steps towards a goal. And that goal can be quite vague. The And that goal can be quite vague. The And that goal can be quite vague. The goal can be quite inspirational and goal can be quite inspirational and goal can be quite inspirational and aspirational. I think that's more aspirational. I think that's more aspirational. I think that's more important than it being strictly defined important than it being strictly defined important than it being strictly defined according to scientific criteria because according to scientific criteria because according to scientific criteria because also of course our scientific also of course our scientific also of course our scientific understanding of what constitutes soul understanding of what constitutes soul understanding of what constitutes soul health will continue to change. It is health will continue to change. It is health will continue to change. It is always a moving target. So I think the always a moving target. So I think the always a moving target. So I think the most important thing is that we are most important thing is that we are most important thing is that we are moving towards the target together and moving towards the target together and moving towards the target together and we are doing the scientific work that we are doing the scientific work that we are doing the scientific work that can bring the larger community of so can bring the larger community of so can bring the larger community of so workers with us towards this goal. workers with us towards this goal. workers with us towards this goal. Brilliant. Okay. Well on the moment of Brilliant. Okay. Well on the moment of Brilliant. Okay. Well on the moment of inspirational and aspirational that's an inspirational and aspirational that's an inspirational and aspirational that's an excellent comment. Let's move on if I excellent comment. Let's move on if I excellent comment. Let's move on if I could now have a word with Lynn. And the could now have a word with Lynn. And the could now have a word with Lynn. And the question I wanted to ask you, Lynn, question I wanted to ask you, Lynn, question I wanted to ask you, Lynn, first of all, sustainable soil first of all, sustainable soil first of all, sustainable soil management, what is your definition of management, what is your definition of management, what is your definition of this? So, having been listening to Anna, this? So, having been listening to Anna, this? So, having been listening to Anna, this is going to be my definition and this is going to be my definition and this is going to be my definition and someone else's definition could be quite someone else's definition could be quite someone else's definition could be quite different. So, for me, soil is being different. So, for me, soil is being different. So, for me, soil is being sustainably managed if it's not sustainably managed if it's not sustainably managed if it's not degrading over time, right? if it's degrading over time, right? if it's degrading over time, right? if it's either maintaining its functions or it's either maintaining its functions or it's either maintaining its functions or it's building its functions and and the building its functions and and the building its functions and and the functions there are, you know, the life functions there are, you know, the life functions there are, you know, the life that lives in it, the the way in which that lives in it, the the way in which that lives in it, the the way in which it cycles nutrients, the organic matter it cycles nutrients, the organic matter it cycles nutrients, the organic matter that it holds, the way that it handles that it holds, the way that it handles that it holds, the way that it handles water. Water infiltrates through it, water. Water infiltrates through it, water. Water infiltrates through it, water is held by the soil. All of those water is held by the soil. All of those water is held by the soil. All of those important soil functions are in a important soil functions are in a important soil functions are in a sustainably managed soil, not degrading sustainably managed soil, not degrading sustainably managed soil, not degrading over time, and the soil itself isn't over time, and the soil itself isn't over time, and the soil itself isn't disappearing over time. So we have this disappearing over time. So we have this disappearing over time. So we have this concept of soil lifespan and and that's concept of soil lifespan and and that's concept of soil lifespan and and that's what one way to measure that is like how what one way to measure that is like how what one way to measure that is like how how many years does it take to lose 30 how many years does it take to lose 30 how many years does it take to lose 30 cm of top soil from this soil given the cm of top soil from this soil given the cm of top soil from this soil given the processes going on in this place and processes going on in this place and processes going on in this place and that can be anything from 200 to 10,000 that can be anything from 200 to 10,000 that can be anything from 200 to 10,000 years and a sustainably managed soil is years and a sustainably managed soil is years and a sustainably managed soil is not losing top soil. So it has a very not losing top soil. So it has a very not losing top soil. So it has a very very long lifespan ahead of it. So a very long lifespan ahead of it. So a very long lifespan ahead of it. So a question which may well be an obvious question which may well be an obvious question which may well be an obvious one is why is sustainable soil one is why is sustainable soil one is why is sustainable soil management important? That's an management important? That's an management important? That's an excellent question and it's really excellent question and it's really excellent question and it's really important to to be able to articulate an important to to be able to articulate an important to to be able to articulate an answer to that, right? Sustainable soil answer to that, right? Sustainable soil answer to that, right? Sustainable soil management or or having soils that are management or or having soils that are management or or having soils that are not degrading is important because soil not degrading is important because soil not degrading is important because soil is the basis of much of our food chain is the basis of much of our food chain is the basis of much of our food chain as people. It's where we grow much of as people. It's where we grow much of as people. It's where we grow much of our food without soil. I mean there are our food without soil. I mean there are our food without soil. I mean there are ways to produce food. There's obviously ways to produce food. There's obviously ways to produce food. There's obviously seafood which is harvested from wild seafood which is harvested from wild seafood which is harvested from wild core animals in the sea that doesn't core animals in the sea that doesn't core animals in the sea that doesn't rely on soil. And there are other rely on soil. And there are other rely on soil. And there are other sources of food that you can manufacture sources of food that you can manufacture sources of food that you can manufacture in different ways, but I don't know the in different ways, but I don't know the in different ways, but I don't know the percentage myself, but I'd imagine a percentage myself, but I'd imagine a percentage myself, but I'd imagine a very very big chunk of all our food very very big chunk of all our food very very big chunk of all our food comes from food that from from products comes from food that from from products comes from food that from from products that are grown in the soil. Perhaps Anna that are grown in the soil. Perhaps Anna that are grown in the soil. Perhaps Anna knows the percentage. I I don't know. knows the percentage. I I don't know. knows the percentage. I I don't know. And so if you if you're looking at there And so if you if you're looking at there And so if you if you're looking at there was a recent study which uh assessed was a recent study which uh assessed was a recent study which uh assessed this this soil lifespan for arable soils this this soil lifespan for arable soils this this soil lifespan for arable soils across the world and in conventionally across the world and in conventionally across the world and in conventionally managed arable soils which are probably managed arable soils which are probably managed arable soils which are probably not sustainably managed onethird of not sustainably managed onethird of not sustainably managed onethird of those have a lifespan of less than 200 those have a lifespan of less than 200 those have a lifespan of less than 200 years that means 200 years from now years that means 200 years from now years that means 200 years from now there'll be a third of the places where there'll be a third of the places where there'll be a third of the places where we're currently growing our arable crops we're currently growing our arable crops we're currently growing our arable crops won't have sufficient top soil to grow won't have sufficient top soil to grow won't have sufficient top soil to grow arable crops in the way that we do now. arable crops in the way that we do now. arable crops in the way that we do now. And and this is why it's important. I And and this is why it's important. I And and this is why it's important. I mean that you know there's a lot of mean that you know there's a lot of mean that you know there's a lot of people on earth and we need to grow a people on earth and we need to grow a people on earth and we need to grow a lot of food and I you know I find that lot of food and I you know I find that lot of food and I you know I find that comment really quite astonishing. So my comment really quite astonishing. So my comment really quite astonishing. So my next question is regenerative next question is regenerative next question is regenerative agriculture it's an approach to agriculture it's an approach to agriculture it's an approach to sustainable soil management which is sustainable soil management which is sustainable soil management which is clearly rapidly gaining traction in the clearly rapidly gaining traction in the clearly rapidly gaining traction in the UK and far wider in terms of UK farming UK and far wider in terms of UK farming UK and far wider in terms of UK farming and policy. Now why do you think this and policy. Now why do you think this and policy. Now why do you think this awareness is happening now? Well, I awareness is happening now? Well, I awareness is happening now? Well, I think it's a combination of things and think it's a combination of things and think it's a combination of things and one of them is, as I was just saying, I one of them is, as I was just saying, I one of them is, as I was just saying, I think people have farmers particularly think people have farmers particularly think people have farmers particularly have and also policy makers have woken have and also policy makers have woken have and also policy makers have woken up to the fact that soil is is a really up to the fact that soil is is a really up to the fact that soil is is a really important resource. I mean, we need to important resource. I mean, we need to important resource. I mean, we need to look after it. It's it's neither look after it. It's it's neither look after it. It's it's neither renewable. It's sort of renewable, but renewable. It's sort of renewable, but renewable. It's sort of renewable, but it's also non-renewable. But we need to it's also non-renewable. But we need to it's also non-renewable. But we need to care for it and if it disappears, we care for it and if it disappears, we care for it and if it disappears, we we'll be we'll be really stuck. So, it's we'll be we'll be really stuck. So, it's we'll be we'll be really stuck. So, it's something that we can we can lose. And something that we can we can lose. And something that we can we can lose. And looking at the calculated rates of loss looking at the calculated rates of loss looking at the calculated rates of loss across the world, then this is something across the world, then this is something across the world, then this is something we need to do something about. That's we need to do something about. That's we need to do something about. That's one thing. Another thing is that the way one thing. Another thing is that the way one thing. Another thing is that the way that agriculture developed during the that agriculture developed during the that agriculture developed during the 20th century was to have a system that 20th century was to have a system that 20th century was to have a system that was very heavily dependent on chemical was very heavily dependent on chemical was very heavily dependent on chemical inputs to increase yields and be very inputs to increase yields and be very inputs to increase yields and be very intensive in its food production. And intensive in its food production. And intensive in its food production. And that was fantastically successful in that was fantastically successful in that was fantastically successful in terms of increasing food production for terms of increasing food production for terms of increasing food production for much of the second half of the 20th much of the second half of the 20th much of the second half of the 20th century. But it's actually stopped century. But it's actually stopped century. But it's actually stopped continuing to be successful. Yields are continuing to be successful. Yields are continuing to be successful. Yields are no longer increasing. And in fact, no longer increasing. And in fact, no longer increasing. And in fact, farmers and have have realized and this farmers and have have realized and this farmers and have have realized and this is this the narrative you hear from many is this the narrative you hear from many is this the narrative you hear from many regenerative farmers. They've noticed regenerative farmers. They've noticed regenerative farmers. They've noticed that they're putting on all these very that they're putting on all these very that they're putting on all these very expensive, increasingly expensive expensive, increasingly expensive expensive, increasingly expensive chemicals and it's not actually helping chemicals and it's not actually helping chemicals and it's not actually helping them. They're not increasing yields. In them. They're not increasing yields. In them. They're not increasing yields. In fact, their yields are static or or fact, their yields are static or or fact, their yields are static or or declining or certainly for some of the declining or certainly for some of the declining or certainly for some of the main combinable crops, the the yields main combinable crops, the the yields main combinable crops, the the yields are fairly static now. They're not are fairly static now. They're not are fairly static now. They're not increasing anymore. And what what we are increasing anymore. And what what we are increasing anymore. And what what we are doing with that very intensive chemical doing with that very intensive chemical doing with that very intensive chemical heavy system is degrading soils. We're heavy system is degrading soils. We're heavy system is degrading soils. We're putting increasing amounts of fungicides putting increasing amounts of fungicides putting increasing amounts of fungicides on to to stop fungal diseases. We've got on to to stop fungal diseases. We've got on to to stop fungal diseases. We've got very unresistant, unresilient cropping very unresistant, unresilient cropping very unresistant, unresilient cropping systems and uh I I think people have systems and uh I I think people have systems and uh I I think people have noticed that and started thinking there noticed that and started thinking there noticed that and started thinking there must be another way. This isn't this must be another way. This isn't this must be another way. This isn't this system isn't actually working anymore. system isn't actually working anymore. system isn't actually working anymore. And then the third thing that's And then the third thing that's And then the third thing that's happening is climate change. Climate happening is climate change. Climate happening is climate change. Climate change is here. Climate change is is is change is here. Climate change is is is change is here. Climate change is is is really starting to bite in terms of its really starting to bite in terms of its really starting to bite in terms of its effect on food systems. Now we have much effect on food systems. Now we have much effect on food systems. Now we have much less predictable weather patterns here. less predictable weather patterns here. less predictable weather patterns here. We have these intense droughts. We have We have these intense droughts. We have We have these intense droughts. We have intense rainfall. And in many parts of intense rainfall. And in many parts of intense rainfall. And in many parts of the world, it's it's a much more bleak the world, it's it's a much more bleak the world, it's it's a much more bleak outlook than it is here in the UK. I outlook than it is here in the UK. I outlook than it is here in the UK. I think people have started to realize think people have started to realize think people have started to realize that we've got to do something about that we've got to do something about that we've got to do something about that. First of all, we have to mitigate. that. First of all, we have to mitigate. that. First of all, we have to mitigate. We've got to reduce the emissions that We've got to reduce the emissions that We've got to reduce the emissions that are associated with agriculture, which are associated with agriculture, which are associated with agriculture, which are substantial, and a lot of them are are substantial, and a lot of them are are substantial, and a lot of them are from nitrous oxide emissions, which is from nitrous oxide emissions, which is from nitrous oxide emissions, which is directly associated with the use of directly associated with the use of directly associated with the use of synthetic fertilizers. And we also have synthetic fertilizers. And we also have synthetic fertilizers. And we also have to adapt to climate change. We need to to adapt to climate change. We need to to adapt to climate change. We need to build an agricultural system that is not build an agricultural system that is not build an agricultural system that is not going to suffer so much as the climate going to suffer so much as the climate going to suffer so much as the climate changes. And how do you do that? Well, changes. And how do you do that? Well, changes. And how do you do that? Well, one of the ways is to is to diversify one of the ways is to is to diversify one of the ways is to is to diversify the stuff you're growing and to look the stuff you're growing and to look the stuff you're growing and to look after your soils better so that you hold after your soils better so that you hold after your soils better so that you hold water better. And regenerative water better. And regenerative water better. And regenerative agriculture presents itself as a agriculture presents itself as a agriculture presents itself as a solution to all three of those things. solution to all three of those things. solution to all three of those things. Great. And now tell us a bit about the Great. And now tell us a bit about the Great. And now tell us a bit about the approach that you took when you were approach that you took when you were approach that you took when you were doing your research. We began with a a a doing your research. We began with a a a doing your research. We began with a a a survey that that Anna put together of a survey that that Anna put together of a survey that that Anna put together of a national survey of 297 farmers responded national survey of 297 farmers responded national survey of 297 farmers responded in the end asking them about the state in the end asking them about the state in the end asking them about the state of their soil and uh what soil of their soil and uh what soil of their soil and uh what soil management practices they used and some management practices they used and some management practices they used and some of the findings were very interesting of the findings were very interesting of the findings were very interesting but we were looking at it through the but we were looking at it through the but we were looking at it through the lens of regenerative agriculture. What lens of regenerative agriculture. What lens of regenerative agriculture. What can we learn from this about how farmers can we learn from this about how farmers can we learn from this about how farmers currently in the UK are are practicing currently in the UK are are practicing currently in the UK are are practicing or looking after their soils? And we or looking after their soils? And we or looking after their soils? And we found a few interesting things from the found a few interesting things from the found a few interesting things from the results of the survey. A few things I'd results of the survey. A few things I'd results of the survey. A few things I'd pick out. One of the most interesting pick out. One of the most interesting pick out. One of the most interesting figures in the paper, if if anyone's figures in the paper, if if anyone's figures in the paper, if if anyone's listening is going to read the paper, listening is going to read the paper, listening is going to read the paper, I'd just direct you to figure two. And I'd just direct you to figure two. And I'd just direct you to figure two. And this is about how farmers perceive the this is about how farmers perceive the this is about how farmers perceive the state of their own soils and how they state of their own soils and how they state of their own soils and how they perceive the state of other soils perceive the state of other soils perceive the state of other soils elsewhere in the UK or elsewhere in the elsewhere in the UK or elsewhere in the elsewhere in the UK or elsewhere in the world. It's fascinating. So, in general, world. It's fascinating. So, in general, world. It's fascinating. So, in general, the summary of this is that farmers in the summary of this is that farmers in the summary of this is that farmers in this in this sample of 297 perceived this in this sample of 297 perceived this in this sample of 297 perceived that their own soils were either lightly that their own soils were either lightly that their own soils were either lightly degraded or not degraded. Other soils in degraded or not degraded. Other soils in degraded or not degraded. Other soils in the UK were degraded or heavily the UK were degraded or heavily the UK were degraded or heavily degraded. and soils elsewhere in the degraded. and soils elsewhere in the degraded. and soils elsewhere in the world were were degraded or heavily world were were degraded or heavily world were were degraded or heavily degraded even more. So basically my degraded even more. So basically my degraded even more. So basically my soul's fine other people's not so good soul's fine other people's not so good soul's fine other people's not so good which is kind of interesting because which is kind of interesting because which is kind of interesting because that that can't actually be true. So that that can't actually be true. So that that can't actually be true. So that's one of the findings and then and that's one of the findings and then and that's one of the findings and then and then the other important findings here then the other important findings here then the other important findings here we we look we we give them these 14 we we look we we give them these 14 we we look we we give them these 14 sustainable soil management practices sustainable soil management practices sustainable soil management practices and we ask them are you aware of this and we ask them are you aware of this and we ask them are you aware of this and are you implementing it yourself? and are you implementing it yourself? and are you implementing it yourself? One important thing to say is that most One important thing to say is that most One important thing to say is that most of the practices there's quite a high of the practices there's quite a high of the practices there's quite a high level of of awareness sort of over 50% level of of awareness sort of over 50% level of of awareness sort of over 50% for most of them of the farmers had for most of them of the farmers had for most of them of the farmers had heard of this thing and this things like heard of this thing and this things like heard of this thing and this things like no tillillage minimum tillage plowing no tillillage minimum tillage plowing no tillillage minimum tillage plowing with the with the sl along the slope or with the with the sl along the slope or with the with the sl along the slope or using herbal lays and there's a whole using herbal lays and there's a whole using herbal lays and there's a whole list of different things. Um but also list of different things. Um but also list of different things. Um but also what was interesting is that between 11 what was interesting is that between 11 what was interesting is that between 11 and 52% for each practice of the farmers and 52% for each practice of the farmers and 52% for each practice of the farmers in the in the in the arable farmers in in the in the in the arable farmers in in the in the in the arable farmers in this survey were implementing these. So this survey were implementing these. So this survey were implementing these. So quite a high level of imple quite a high level of imple quite a high level of imple implementation already which we've also implementation already which we've also implementation already which we've also found in previous surveys quite a lot of found in previous surveys quite a lot of found in previous surveys quite a lot of these individual practices a good these individual practices a good these individual practices a good proportion 30 40 or 50% of UK farmers proportion 30 40 or 50% of UK farmers proportion 30 40 or 50% of UK farmers are already doing this but what that are already doing this but what that are already doing this but what that doesn't mean is that they're all doing doesn't mean is that they're all doing doesn't mean is that they're all doing or this percentage of farmers are doing or this percentage of farmers are doing or this percentage of farmers are doing regenerative agriculture and this is regenerative agriculture and this is regenerative agriculture and this is where it becomes more interesting so where it becomes more interesting so where it becomes more interesting so there's a big difference between a there's a big difference between a there's a big difference between a regenerative approach where you're regenerative approach where you're regenerative approach where you're managing a whole farm system with all of managing a whole farm system with all of managing a whole farm system with all of the different methods and the the the different methods and the the the different methods and the the principles the five principles of principles the five principles of principles the five principles of regenerative agriculture in order to regenerative agriculture in order to regenerative agriculture in order to manage your soil. So that includes manage your soil. So that includes manage your soil. So that includes keeping the soil covered and minimizing keeping the soil covered and minimizing keeping the soil covered and minimizing disturbance and also diversifying your disturbance and also diversifying your disturbance and also diversifying your your cropping systems and your your cropping systems and your your cropping systems and your environments and integrating livestock, environments and integrating livestock, environments and integrating livestock, keeping the roots alive all the time. keeping the roots alive all the time. keeping the roots alive all the time. These are the five principles. There are These are the five principles. There are These are the five principles. There are many different practices you would do to many different practices you would do to many different practices you would do to put those into practice in different put those into practice in different put those into practice in different contexts, but you have to do them all contexts, but you have to do them all contexts, but you have to do them all together to do the full kind of together to do the full kind of together to do the full kind of regenerative agriculture. And what we regenerative agriculture. And what we regenerative agriculture. And what we see is that although the farmers are see is that although the farmers are see is that although the farmers are implementing some of the practices, implementing some of the practices, implementing some of the practices, they're not combining them together they're not combining them together they're not combining them together necessarily into something that looks necessarily into something that looks necessarily into something that looks like regenerative agriculture based on like regenerative agriculture based on like regenerative agriculture based on these five principles. You really these five principles. You really these five principles. You really touched on this, but what would you like touched on this, but what would you like touched on this, but what would you like the impact of your research to be on the impact of your research to be on the impact of your research to be on everyday practice? Looking at the everyday practice? Looking at the everyday practice? Looking at the results of the survey as a whole, what results of the survey as a whole, what results of the survey as a whole, what we find is what we've gone on to find in we find is what we've gone on to find in we find is what we've gone on to find in in more recent research is that we're in more recent research is that we're in more recent research is that we're each farm has what we would call a each farm has what we would call a each farm has what we would call a fingerprint. Every farm is unique. No fingerprint. Every farm is unique. No fingerprint. Every farm is unique. No farms are are doing exactly the same set farms are are doing exactly the same set farms are are doing exactly the same set of practices. And now we're looking at of practices. And now we're looking at of practices. And now we're looking at it going back through five years of it going back through five years of it going back through five years of historical practices as well. And even historical practices as well. And even historical practices as well. And even more so, every single farm is different more so, every single farm is different more so, every single farm is different from every other farm. None of the farms from every other farm. None of the farms from every other farm. None of the farms are doing none of the regenerative are doing none of the regenerative are doing none of the regenerative practices and none of them are doing all practices and none of them are doing all practices and none of them are doing all of them. So they're on this kind of of them. So they're on this kind of of them. So they're on this kind of gradient. But in our survey published in gradient. But in our survey published in gradient. But in our survey published in soil use and management, 92% of the soil use and management, 92% of the soil use and management, 92% of the arable and mixed farmers in this survey arable and mixed farmers in this survey arable and mixed farmers in this survey said, "I am doing sustainable soil said, "I am doing sustainable soil said, "I am doing sustainable soil management." So they all said they were management." So they all said they were management." So they all said they were doing it or almost all of them all but doing it or almost all of them all but doing it or almost all of them all but 8% of them said they were doing it but 8% of them said they were doing it but 8% of them said they were doing it but what they were actually doing was quite what they were actually doing was quite what they were actually doing was quite a a wide a spectrum of different sets of a a wide a spectrum of different sets of a a wide a spectrum of different sets of practices along this spectrum of practices along this spectrum of practices along this spectrum of regenerativeness you might call it and regenerativeness you might call it and regenerativeness you might call it and so because of that and this is where so because of that and this is where so because of that and this is where we're continuing with this research on we're continuing with this research on we're continuing with this research on regenerative agriculture there is a huge regenerative agriculture there is a huge regenerative agriculture there is a huge risk of greenwashing here it's very easy risk of greenwashing here it's very easy risk of greenwashing here it's very easy for a farmer to say I'm regenerative for a farmer to say I'm regenerative for a farmer to say I'm regenerative because I do minimum tillage on one because I do minimum tillage on one because I do minimum tillage on one field in three every five is and that's field in three every five is and that's field in three every five is and that's not regenerative at all. So there's a not regenerative at all. So there's a not regenerative at all. So there's a risk. Really interesting thought is risk. Really interesting thought is risk. Really interesting thought is clearly you've approached this group of clearly you've approached this group of clearly you've approached this group of farmers as part of your research. But if farmers as part of your research. But if farmers as part of your research. But if you wanted them to change their practice you wanted them to change their practice you wanted them to change their practice on a routine basis, who would be on a routine basis, who would be on a routine basis, who would be responsible for helping them to do this? responsible for helping them to do this? responsible for helping them to do this? Regenerative agriculture as it is at the Regenerative agriculture as it is at the Regenerative agriculture as it is at the moment is a farmer movement and farmers moment is a farmer movement and farmers moment is a farmer movement and farmers are doing it themselves. There are these are doing it themselves. There are these are doing it themselves. There are these forerunner farmers who are just going forerunner farmers who are just going forerunner farmers who are just going ahead and doing it and telling everybody ahead and doing it and telling everybody ahead and doing it and telling everybody else at the tops of their voices how else at the tops of their voices how else at the tops of their voices how fantastic it is. And that's a really fantastic it is. And that's a really fantastic it is. And that's a really important part of the process of social important part of the process of social important part of the process of social change. But it's also important to to change. But it's also important to to change. But it's also important to to note that there is a need for for note that there is a need for for note that there is a need for for financial support for far farmers financial support for far farmers financial support for far farmers generally in this country and many other generally in this country and many other generally in this country and many other countries. And there is a need for an countries. And there is a need for an countries. And there is a need for an incentive structure that helps farmers incentive structure that helps farmers incentive structure that helps farmers to make that transition because it does to make that transition because it does to make that transition because it does look like when you move from a very look like when you move from a very look like when you move from a very conventional uh chemicalheavy system to conventional uh chemicalheavy system to conventional uh chemicalheavy system to a more regenerative system, there's a a more regenerative system, there's a a more regenerative system, there's a transition period where you might in the transition period where you might in the transition period where you might in the end lose some income, you might lose end lose some income, you might lose end lose some income, you might lose some profit, you might have some trouble some profit, you might have some trouble some profit, you might have some trouble with pests and that can be between 5 and with pests and that can be between 5 and with pests and that can be between 5 and 10 years long. So there is a need for 10 years long. So there is a need for 10 years long. So there is a need for support through the transition. And one support through the transition. And one support through the transition. And one thing I have not measured scientifically thing I have not measured scientifically thing I have not measured scientifically but generally observe in my work in this but generally observe in my work in this but generally observe in my work in this area is that those farmers that are the area is that those farmers that are the area is that those farmers that are the pioneers who are moving to regenerative pioneers who are moving to regenerative pioneers who are moving to regenerative systems, they tend to be wealthier systems, they tend to be wealthier systems, they tend to be wealthier farmers. They're more able to take risks farmers. They're more able to take risks farmers. They're more able to take risks because they have other income streams because they have other income streams because they have other income streams or they have a lot of asset and so or they have a lot of asset and so or they have a lot of asset and so they're in a position they're not quite they're in a position they're not quite they're in a position they're not quite on the line of depending entirely on on the line of depending entirely on on the line of depending entirely on that business. So there is some need for that business. So there is some need for that business. So there is some need for support, financial support. And where support, financial support. And where support, financial support. And where should that come from? It can come from should that come from? It can come from should that come from? It can come from government. It can come from supply government. It can come from supply government. It can come from supply chains if they can be uh arranged chains if they can be uh arranged chains if they can be uh arranged properly to recognize regenerative properly to recognize regenerative properly to recognize regenerative agriculture. It can come from agriculture. It can come from agriculture. It can come from certification potentially. And what do certification potentially. And what do certification potentially. And what do you see as the single biggest threat to you see as the single biggest threat to you see as the single biggest threat to regenerative agriculture being adopted regenerative agriculture being adopted regenerative agriculture being adopted as widely as you would like it to be? I as widely as you would like it to be? I as widely as you would like it to be? I think that there are two main barriers think that there are two main barriers think that there are two main barriers here. One is as I was just saying the here. One is as I was just saying the here. One is as I was just saying the financial risk during the transition. financial risk during the transition. financial risk during the transition. You have to you have to be prepared to You have to you have to be prepared to You have to you have to be prepared to take a risk and so the the other source take a risk and so the the other source take a risk and so the the other source of support there can be through of support there can be through of support there can be through insurance companies and financial insurance companies and financial insurance companies and financial services. You can have a a support for services. You can have a a support for services. You can have a a support for farmers who are making this transition. farmers who are making this transition. farmers who are making this transition. So financial risk is is one of the So financial risk is is one of the So financial risk is is one of the threats and the other threat I see is threats and the other threat I see is threats and the other threat I see is the the lack of really good quality the the lack of really good quality the the lack of really good quality independent advice on how to do this. independent advice on how to do this. independent advice on how to do this. The way that farming works in this The way that farming works in this The way that farming works in this country is that the the risk is taken by country is that the the risk is taken by country is that the the risk is taken by agronomic advisers who are supposedly agronomic advisers who are supposedly agronomic advisers who are supposedly independent of farms. They take the independent of farms. They take the independent of farms. They take the risk, they give the advice. If it risk, they give the advice. If it risk, they give the advice. If it doesn't work out, they take the doesn't work out, they take the doesn't work out, they take the financial hit, not the farmer. And so to financial hit, not the farmer. And so to financial hit, not the farmer. And so to to get to a system where those to get to a system where those to get to a system where those agricultural advisers are prepared to agricultural advisers are prepared to agricultural advisers are prepared to take the risk and give advice when the take the risk and give advice when the take the risk and give advice when the system they're advising on is system they're advising on is system they're advising on is regenerative and not something that regenerative and not something that regenerative and not something that they've previously been trained on, it's they've previously been trained on, it's they've previously been trained on, it's quite a big step from here, I would say. quite a big step from here, I would say. quite a big step from here, I would say. That is so interesting because my my That is so interesting because my my That is so interesting because my my final question for the moment was to ask final question for the moment was to ask final question for the moment was to ask you um a bit about the financial you um a bit about the financial you um a bit about the financial implications of your research. What implications of your research. What implications of your research. What should we be thinking about there? So should we be thinking about there? So should we be thinking about there? So from a farm business perspective, the from a farm business perspective, the from a farm business perspective, the the financial implications should be and the financial implications should be and the financial implications should be and I think the farmers who are doing it I think the farmers who are doing it I think the farmers who are doing it will argue that this is the case. The will argue that this is the case. The will argue that this is the case. The farms should be more profitable. Farmers farms should be more profitable. Farmers farms should be more profitable. Farmers will tell you my bottom line is much will tell you my bottom line is much will tell you my bottom line is much better. And the reason why it's it's better. And the reason why it's it's better. And the reason why it's it's expected to be more profitable and is expected to be more profitable and is expected to be more profitable and is according to the farmers who are doing according to the farmers who are doing according to the farmers who are doing it well is that you you spend less money it well is that you you spend less money it well is that you you spend less money on inputs. You buy less synthetic on inputs. You buy less synthetic on inputs. You buy less synthetic fertilizer. we put a lot less fertilizer. we put a lot less fertilizer. we put a lot less insecticides in and so you spend less insecticides in and so you spend less insecticides in and so you spend less but you get equivalent yields or some but you get equivalent yields or some but you get equivalent yields or some farmers will tell you higher I haven't farmers will tell you higher I haven't farmers will tell you higher I haven't seen data on that but uh equivalent or seen data on that but uh equivalent or seen data on that but uh equivalent or very slightly lower but the the balance very slightly lower but the the balance very slightly lower but the the balance is that it costs you less and so you is that it costs you less and so you is that it costs you less and so you make more profit and there is some make more profit and there is some make more profit and there is some really good evidence in the literature really good evidence in the literature really good evidence in the literature that the that these systems are more that the that these systems are more that the that these systems are more profitable from maze farms in the United profitable from maze farms in the United profitable from maze farms in the United States so from a farm business States so from a farm business States so from a farm business perspective the financial implications perspective the financial implications perspective the financial implications are this will secure the economic are this will secure the economic are this will secure the economic resilience of the farming sector into resilience of the farming sector into resilience of the farming sector into the future because it makes individual the future because it makes individual the future because it makes individual farms more profitable farms more profitable farms more profitable Lynn, thank you very much for that Lynn, thank you very much for that Lynn, thank you very much for that comment. Now, Anna, I think you wanted comment. Now, Anna, I think you wanted comment. Now, Anna, I think you wanted to make a comment as well. Thank you, to make a comment as well. Thank you, to make a comment as well. Thank you, Paul. I wanted to come back to this Paul. I wanted to come back to this Paul. I wanted to come back to this question of greenwashing and of what question of greenwashing and of what question of greenwashing and of what regenerative agriculture really is. Lynn regenerative agriculture really is. Lynn regenerative agriculture really is. Lynn said something extremely important. said something extremely important. said something extremely important. Regenerative agriculture is a farmer's Regenerative agriculture is a farmer's Regenerative agriculture is a farmer's movement. It came from the farmer movement. It came from the farmer movement. It came from the farmer community and it is led by the farmer community and it is led by the farmer community and it is led by the farmer community. And at the moment, scientists community. And at the moment, scientists community. And at the moment, scientists are interested. We are following. We are are interested. We are following. We are are interested. We are following. We are studying. We should continue to follow studying. We should continue to follow studying. We should continue to follow and we should continue to study and we and we should continue to study and we and we should continue to study and we should continue to enable but we should should continue to enable but we should should continue to enable but we should not try to lead. That is my very very not try to lead. That is my very very not try to lead. That is my very very strong suggestion. This is a farmers strong suggestion. This is a farmers strong suggestion. This is a farmers movement that is motivated in fact by uh movement that is motivated in fact by uh movement that is motivated in fact by uh farmers uh finding themselves facing a farmers uh finding themselves facing a farmers uh finding themselves facing a brick wall. I have done a number of brick wall. I have done a number of brick wall. I have done a number of interviews in this field with farmers as interviews in this field with farmers as interviews in this field with farmers as well as with uh farmer advisors and we well as with uh farmer advisors and we well as with uh farmer advisors and we could call them transition managers, could call them transition managers, could call them transition managers, people whose job it is to support the people whose job it is to support the people whose job it is to support the farmers as they are transitioning into farmers as they are transitioning into farmers as they are transitioning into the regenerative agriculture system. And the regenerative agriculture system. And the regenerative agriculture system. And the story that I hear over and over the story that I hear over and over the story that I hear over and over again is of people turning to again is of people turning to again is of people turning to regenerative agriculture out of regenerative agriculture out of regenerative agriculture out of desperation, out of not being able to desperation, out of not being able to desperation, out of not being able to continue within the current um agro food continue within the current um agro food continue within the current um agro food model. So this desire to change the model. So this desire to change the model. So this desire to change the farming system in such a way that farming system in such a way that farming system in such a way that sustainability and financial sustainability and financial sustainability and financial sustainability go together more sustainability go together more sustainability go together more profitable farms that can be sustained profitable farms that can be sustained profitable farms that can be sustained into the future is absolutely at the into the future is absolutely at the into the future is absolutely at the core of this. and the concerns about core of this. and the concerns about core of this. and the concerns about greenwashing when I'm talking to people greenwashing when I'm talking to people greenwashing when I'm talking to people within the regenerative agriculture within the regenerative agriculture within the regenerative agriculture space. These concerns are actually u space. These concerns are actually u space. These concerns are actually u being raised in relation to big being raised in relation to big being raised in relation to big companies and big players who are now companies and big players who are now companies and big players who are now branding their products or their branding their products or their branding their products or their advisory services as regenerative advisory services as regenerative advisory services as regenerative agriculture. So it is here that the agriculture. So it is here that the agriculture. So it is here that the regenerative agriculture farming regenerative agriculture farming regenerative agriculture farming community is asking us scientists to community is asking us scientists to community is asking us scientists to step in to help them to decide okay what step in to help them to decide okay what step in to help them to decide okay what kind of barriers limits kind of barriers limits kind of barriers limits indicators can we set in place to make indicators can we set in place to make indicators can we set in place to make sure that we are going in the right sure that we are going in the right sure that we are going in the right direction that we're not excluding our direction that we're not excluding our direction that we're not excluding our members that more people can participate members that more people can participate members that more people can participate in this very important transitional in this very important transitional in this very important transitional movement but that we don't lose in terms movement but that we don't lose in terms movement but that we don't lose in terms of this movement being taken over by the of this movement being taken over by the of this movement being taken over by the usual players who have been feeding usual players who have been feeding usual players who have been feeding chemicals into the system for ages. So I chemicals into the system for ages. So I chemicals into the system for ages. So I think it's another call for the think it's another call for the think it's another call for the scientific community to really partner scientific community to really partner scientific community to really partner up with the farming community and enable up with the farming community and enable up with the farming community and enable them with our work. Brilliant. Thank them with our work. Brilliant. Thank them with our work. Brilliant. Thank you. We're now going to talk about a you. We're now going to talk about a you. We're now going to talk about a second paper which is called farmers second paper which is called farmers second paper which is called farmers perception of soil health. The use of perception of soil health. The use of perception of soil health. The use of quality data and its implication for quality data and its implication for quality data and its implication for farm farm farm management. Preventing and reversing management. Preventing and reversing management. Preventing and reversing soil degradation is essential to soil degradation is essential to soil degradation is essential to maintaining the ecosystem services maintaining the ecosystem services maintaining the ecosystem services provided by soils and guaranteeing food provided by soils and guaranteeing food provided by soils and guaranteeing food security. This paper argues that in security. This paper argues that in security. This paper argues that in addition to the scientific community, addition to the scientific community, addition to the scientific community, it's also very important to engage many it's also very important to engage many it's also very important to engage many stakeholders to assess and to understand stakeholders to assess and to understand stakeholders to assess and to understand the degree of sore degradation and also the degree of sore degradation and also the degree of sore degradation and also the mitigation strategies that are the mitigation strategies that are the mitigation strategies that are needed to have an impact and to meet the needed to have an impact and to meet the needed to have an impact and to meet the United Nations sustainable development United Nations sustainable development United Nations sustainable development goals as well as the European Union's goals as well as the European Union's goals as well as the European Union's common agricultural policy. So I'm common agricultural policy. So I'm common agricultural policy. So I'm delighted now to um welcome Rael and ask delighted now to um welcome Rael and ask delighted now to um welcome Rael and ask you some questions about the work that you some questions about the work that you some questions about the work that you did on this particular paper. And my you did on this particular paper. And my you did on this particular paper. And my first question, a good starting question first question, a good starting question first question, a good starting question I hope is what prompted you to undertake I hope is what prompted you to undertake I hope is what prompted you to undertake this research? Hi Paul, first of all, this research? Hi Paul, first of all, this research? Hi Paul, first of all, thank you so much for the invitation. thank you so much for the invitation. thank you so much for the invitation. It's really an honor and uh particularly It's really an honor and uh particularly It's really an honor and uh particularly to be sharing um the time here with to be sharing um the time here with to be sharing um the time here with these two amazing scientists. I came these two amazing scientists. I came these two amazing scientists. I came from Brazil. I'm originally from Brazil from Brazil. I'm originally from Brazil from Brazil. I'm originally from Brazil and uh I came to Prague to do this PhD. and uh I came to Prague to do this PhD. and uh I came to Prague to do this PhD. It's a horizon 2020 project and it It's a horizon 2020 project and it It's a horizon 2020 project and it focuses on soil health and also it focuses on soil health and also it focuses on soil health and also it focuses on stakeholder engagement and focuses on stakeholder engagement and focuses on stakeholder engagement and it's a European China uh project. The it's a European China uh project. The it's a European China uh project. The topic really appealed to me right away topic really appealed to me right away topic really appealed to me right away because I was very excited to join a because I was very excited to join a because I was very excited to join a research that not only uh quantifies and research that not only uh quantifies and research that not only uh quantifies and assesses the degree of degradation but assesses the degree of degradation but assesses the degree of degradation but it also does the step forward to propose it also does the step forward to propose it also does the step forward to propose mitigation strategies and the research mitigation strategies and the research mitigation strategies and the research that we're I'm talking about now the that we're I'm talking about now the that we're I'm talking about now the paper that we published was also done on paper that we published was also done on paper that we published was also done on a survey that we conducted uh with the a survey that we conducted uh with the a survey that we conducted uh with the participating countries I have to participating countries I have to participating countries I have to confirm but six uh particip ipating confirm but six uh particip ipating confirm but six uh particip ipating countries and different institutions countries and different institutions countries and different institutions involved in this project and we managed involved in this project and we managed involved in this project and we managed to get more than 450 responses which was to get more than 450 responses which was to get more than 450 responses which was a pretty u interesting number for this a pretty u interesting number for this a pretty u interesting number for this kind of work. And we wanted to get an kind of work. And we wanted to get an kind of work. And we wanted to get an understanding of how farmers evaluate understanding of how farmers evaluate understanding of how farmers evaluate the degree of soil health on their field the degree of soil health on their field the degree of soil health on their field and how they assess their knowledge of and how they assess their knowledge of and how they assess their knowledge of soil health and also their willingness soil health and also their willingness soil health and also their willingness to assess soil quality in their field. to assess soil quality in their field. to assess soil quality in their field. given simple and unexpensive tools were given simple and unexpensive tools were given simple and unexpensive tools were provided because that would be um one of provided because that would be um one of provided because that would be um one of the next steps and goals within our the next steps and goals within our the next steps and goals within our project is to develop decision support project is to develop decision support project is to develop decision support tools to help farmers make decisions on tools to help farmers make decisions on tools to help farmers make decisions on management. So what's interesting is management. So what's interesting is management. So what's interesting is that your work goes beyond the farming that your work goes beyond the farming that your work goes beyond the farming community that we've been talking about community that we've been talking about community that we've been talking about so far today. Tell us a bit about the so far today. Tell us a bit about the so far today. Tell us a bit about the some of the non-farmers that you were some of the non-farmers that you were some of the non-farmers that you were keen to engage with. In particular, for keen to engage with. In particular, for keen to engage with. In particular, for me, and I think that might be the case me, and I think that might be the case me, and I think that might be the case for a lot of PhD candidates, most of our for a lot of PhD candidates, most of our for a lot of PhD candidates, most of our work ends up being with cooperation work ends up being with cooperation work ends up being with cooperation within other scientists and other within other scientists and other within other scientists and other researchers. Uh I think that might be researchers. Uh I think that might be researchers. Uh I think that might be due to the time length of our work. So I due to the time length of our work. So I due to the time length of our work. So I I feel like I unfortunately did not have I feel like I unfortunately did not have I feel like I unfortunately did not have the chance to cooperate as much with the chance to cooperate as much with the chance to cooperate as much with players beyond the farming and academic players beyond the farming and academic players beyond the farming and academic community. I think this is a gap that community. I think this is a gap that community. I think this is a gap that you've mentioned at the very beginning you've mentioned at the very beginning you've mentioned at the very beginning of your introduction to the podcast that of your introduction to the podcast that of your introduction to the podcast that there is this gap between science and there is this gap between science and there is this gap between science and the general public or practical the general public or practical the general public or practical implications. Uh I think that there is a implications. Uh I think that there is a implications. Uh I think that there is a growing awareness around this gap and growing awareness around this gap and growing awareness around this gap and the need to address it but I think the need to address it but I think the need to address it but I think there's still a long way to go. Okay. there's still a long way to go. Okay. there's still a long way to go. Okay. And tell us about the implications of And tell us about the implications of And tell us about the implications of your research for soil conservation your research for soil conservation your research for soil conservation generally. I hope that the main generally. I hope that the main generally. I hope that the main implications or the main contributions implications or the main contributions implications or the main contributions of our work will be really this decision of our work will be really this decision of our work will be really this decision support tools that we're developing. support tools that we're developing. support tools that we're developing. general. We did that in cooperation with general. We did that in cooperation with general. We did that in cooperation with an app developing uh company and the an app developing uh company and the an app developing uh company and the idea is that it will help farmers to idea is that it will help farmers to idea is that it will help farmers to assess the current state of their soil assess the current state of their soil assess the current state of their soil and with some frequency as much as they and with some frequency as much as they and with some frequency as much as they are willing to or are able to do to are willing to or are able to do to are willing to or are able to do to revisit these parameters that they'll be revisit these parameters that they'll be revisit these parameters that they'll be able to measure with the tool. So I hope able to measure with the tool. So I hope able to measure with the tool. So I hope that this first gives a more concrete that this first gives a more concrete that this first gives a more concrete impression of the state of the soil on impression of the state of the soil on impression of the state of the soil on their farms and that with that that they their farms and that with that that they their farms and that with that that they be able to understand which way they be able to understand which way they be able to understand which way they should go to either enhance soil quality should go to either enhance soil quality should go to either enhance soil quality or keep it as it is if the result of the or keep it as it is if the result of the or keep it as it is if the result of the measurements or the analysis turns to be measurements or the analysis turns to be measurements or the analysis turns to be that your soil condition is is good. So that your soil condition is is good. So that your soil condition is is good. So you can keep it uh at that. We talked you can keep it uh at that. We talked you can keep it uh at that. We talked about collaborative networks. What kind about collaborative networks. What kind about collaborative networks. What kind of collaborative network do you think of collaborative network do you think of collaborative network do you think need to be created? I think the need to be created? I think the need to be created? I think the different stakeholders the ones that different stakeholders the ones that different stakeholders the ones that come to my mind immediately are farmers come to my mind immediately are farmers come to my mind immediately are farmers who are the ultimate executors of any who are the ultimate executors of any who are the ultimate executors of any regenerative strategy to be taken. I regenerative strategy to be taken. I regenerative strategy to be taken. I think the research also academia has to think the research also academia has to think the research also academia has to be involved in the public sector be involved in the public sector be involved in the public sector governments because they are also an governments because they are also an governments because they are also an important player in giving out incentive important player in giving out incentive important player in giving out incentive to farmers. I think that we need to have to farmers. I think that we need to have to farmers. I think that we need to have more applied research on the needs of more applied research on the needs of more applied research on the needs of farmers. farmers. farmers. And what do you think is the consequence And what do you think is the consequence And what do you think is the consequence of failure to adopt technologies that of failure to adopt technologies that of failure to adopt technologies that will reverse the degradation of I mean will reverse the degradation of I mean will reverse the degradation of I mean this is something that we've already this is something that we've already this is something that we've already touched on, but what what do you think touched on, but what what do you think touched on, but what what do you think is the consequence of failure to reverse is the consequence of failure to reverse is the consequence of failure to reverse the degradation of agricultural soils? I the degradation of agricultural soils? I the degradation of agricultural soils? I think ultimately worst case scenario is think ultimately worst case scenario is think ultimately worst case scenario is that we'll fail to feed people. Uh and I that we'll fail to feed people. Uh and I that we'll fail to feed people. Uh and I I think this is a a tricky or maybe a I think this is a a tricky or maybe a I think this is a a tricky or maybe a cruel aspect of climate change is that cruel aspect of climate change is that cruel aspect of climate change is that uh the current areas where we're uh the current areas where we're uh the current areas where we're currently growing uh will be affected. currently growing uh will be affected. currently growing uh will be affected. But on the other hand, areas that are But on the other hand, areas that are But on the other hand, areas that are currently unfit for agriculture, let's currently unfit for agriculture, let's currently unfit for agriculture, let's say in the Arctic uh circle, areas that say in the Arctic uh circle, areas that say in the Arctic uh circle, areas that are too cold maybe for for growing crops are too cold maybe for for growing crops are too cold maybe for for growing crops will become adequate for agriculture. will become adequate for agriculture. will become adequate for agriculture. And I've seen that there's already a And I've seen that there's already a And I've seen that there's already a growing interest in these areas. So we growing interest in these areas. So we growing interest in these areas. So we can see the agricultural frontier can see the agricultural frontier can see the agricultural frontier advancing to areas that were not fit for advancing to areas that were not fit for advancing to areas that were not fit for agriculture before. We also know that agriculture before. We also know that agriculture before. We also know that the rate of degradation of soils as it's the rate of degradation of soils as it's the rate of degradation of soils as it's already been mentioned the rate of already been mentioned the rate of already been mentioned the rate of degradation is a lot higher and a lot degradation is a lot higher and a lot degradation is a lot higher and a lot superior than that of the regeneration superior than that of the regeneration superior than that of the regeneration of soils. And I think it's also of soils. And I think it's also of soils. And I think it's also important that awareness is raised important that awareness is raised important that awareness is raised because it's too easy to think that we because it's too easy to think that we because it's too easy to think that we don't have an issue here because we don't have an issue here because we don't have an issue here because we import our crops from other countries. import our crops from other countries. import our crops from other countries. But there has also have also been a lot But there has also have also been a lot But there has also have also been a lot of research done showing that the food of research done showing that the food of research done showing that the food that um Europe or North America import that um Europe or North America import that um Europe or North America import come from regions that are over come from regions that are over come from regions that are over depleting their water resources. depleting their water resources. depleting their water resources. So I think it's a crisis in the making So I think it's a crisis in the making So I think it's a crisis in the making and I think the fact that the awareness and I think the fact that the awareness and I think the fact that the awareness is now raising it's it's already been is now raising it's it's already been is now raising it's it's already been said is that we're we're clearly said is that we're we're clearly said is that we're we're clearly reaching a tipping point and best time reaching a tipping point and best time reaching a tipping point and best time to act was sometime in the past but now to act was sometime in the past but now to act was sometime in the past but now it's the second best time to act. My it's the second best time to act. My it's the second best time to act. My last question to you is what most last question to you is what most last question to you is what most surprised you about the outcome of your surprised you about the outcome of your surprised you about the outcome of your research? I think what most surprised me research? I think what most surprised me research? I think what most surprised me is that in our questionnaire, we saw is that in our questionnaire, we saw is that in our questionnaire, we saw that farmers are very willing to use that farmers are very willing to use that farmers are very willing to use tools if they're provided the tools and tools if they're provided the tools and tools if they're provided the tools and they're open to cooperation. We've seen they're open to cooperation. We've seen they're open to cooperation. We've seen other researchers showing that farmers other researchers showing that farmers other researchers showing that farmers are tired of scientists. This was a are tired of scientists. This was a are tired of scientists. This was a catchy title of a paper that came out catchy title of a paper that came out catchy title of a paper that came out some years ago and from what we heard is some years ago and from what we heard is some years ago and from what we heard is that they're not. They're still open. So that they're not. They're still open. So that they're not. They're still open. So I think it's up to scientists in I think it's up to scientists in I think it's up to scientists in academia to be smart and approach them academia to be smart and approach them academia to be smart and approach them the right way. Just a couple of extra the right way. Just a couple of extra the right way. Just a couple of extra questions. If I can start with you Anna, questions. If I can start with you Anna, questions. If I can start with you Anna, what research would you like to do next? what research would you like to do next? what research would you like to do next? I have been working on this intersection I have been working on this intersection I have been working on this intersection of social sciences and natural sciences of social sciences and natural sciences of social sciences and natural sciences of soil for a while and what I have been of soil for a while and what I have been of soil for a while and what I have been really worried by is that we are very really worried by is that we are very really worried by is that we are very often still operating with what is known often still operating with what is known often still operating with what is known as the knowledge deficit model. This as the knowledge deficit model. This as the knowledge deficit model. This pertains not only to soil science but to pertains not only to soil science but to pertains not only to soil science but to environmental science and many other environmental science and many other environmental science and many other areas more generally. The knowledge areas more generally. The knowledge areas more generally. The knowledge deficit model says people don't know and deficit model says people don't know and deficit model says people don't know and if only they knew they would if only they knew they would if only they knew they would act. And this is act. And this is act. And this is wrong. And we have studies that show wrong. And we have studies that show wrong. And we have studies that show that this is wrong. But knowledge that this is wrong. But knowledge that this is wrong. But knowledge deficit model doesn't work. Just knowing deficit model doesn't work. Just knowing deficit model doesn't work. Just knowing that something is broken doesn't help us that something is broken doesn't help us that something is broken doesn't help us fix it. So my growing area of research fix it. So my growing area of research fix it. So my growing area of research is how do we construct scientific is how do we construct scientific is how do we construct scientific knowledge processes? How do we change knowledge processes? How do we change knowledge processes? How do we change how we make science? How do we change how we make science? How do we change how we make science? How do we change how we do research in such a way that we how we do research in such a way that we how we do research in such a way that we can participate in the fixing rather can participate in the fixing rather can participate in the fixing rather than just saying that things are broken? than just saying that things are broken? than just saying that things are broken? How do we facilitate the fixing? And How do we facilitate the fixing? And How do we facilitate the fixing? And please ask Lynn about the project under please ask Lynn about the project under please ask Lynn about the project under the umbrella of H3 because it's such a the umbrella of H3 because it's such a the umbrella of H3 because it's such a wonderful example of what happens when a wonderful example of what happens when a wonderful example of what happens when a farming community and the scientific farming community and the scientific farming community and the scientific community get together to try to fix community get together to try to fix community get together to try to fix things and they start from having a things and they start from having a things and they start from having a conversation about what is broken and conversation about what is broken and conversation about what is broken and what doesn't work in this specific place what doesn't work in this specific place what doesn't work in this specific place for this specific set of people in these for this specific set of people in these for this specific set of people in these specific ecological, social, economic specific ecological, social, economic specific ecological, social, economic conditions and then what is needed conditions and then what is needed conditions and then what is needed specifically from science to overcome specifically from science to overcome specifically from science to overcome the barriers the problems to open up new the barriers the problems to open up new the barriers the problems to open up new avenues of action and I think this is avenues of action and I think this is avenues of action and I think this is the way that we need to be going. So the the way that we need to be going. So the the way that we need to be going. So the regenerative agriculture movement is regenerative agriculture movement is regenerative agriculture movement is very hungry for that kind of very hungry for that kind of very hungry for that kind of collaboration. I have another paper in collaboration. I have another paper in collaboration. I have another paper in soil use and management from some years soil use and management from some years soil use and management from some years back which I encourage you all to read back which I encourage you all to read back which I encourage you all to read which makes that very same argument on which makes that very same argument on which makes that very same argument on the basis of conversations with farmers the basis of conversations with farmers the basis of conversations with farmers practicing sustainable soil use and soil practicing sustainable soil use and soil practicing sustainable soil use and soil management. So really there is a great management. So really there is a great management. So really there is a great opportunity for science and an opportunity for science and an opportunity for science and an increasing push for science to do this increasing push for science to do this increasing push for science to do this kind of work and we should capture it. kind of work and we should capture it. kind of work and we should capture it. It's really a wonderful time. Thank you. It's really a wonderful time. Thank you. It's really a wonderful time. Thank you. Well, I think that's a perfect segue Well, I think that's a perfect segue Well, I think that's a perfect segue into me then asking Lynn, what do you into me then asking Lynn, what do you into me then asking Lynn, what do you want to do next? So, what I'm working on want to do next? So, what I'm working on want to do next? So, what I'm working on at the moment is the project that this at the moment is the project that this at the moment is the project that this paper we were talking about was at the paper we were talking about was at the paper we were talking about was at the beginning of the the H3 project, healthy beginning of the the H3 project, healthy beginning of the the H3 project, healthy soil, healthy food, healthy people, was soil, healthy food, healthy people, was soil, healthy food, healthy people, was a co-designed experiment with a group of a co-designed experiment with a group of a co-designed experiment with a group of farmers. So, as Alan was describing, a farmers. So, as Alan was describing, a farmers. So, as Alan was describing, a kind of participatory approach to kind of participatory approach to kind of participatory approach to research where we both design the research where we both design the research where we both design the research and do the research in research and do the research in research and do the research in partnership with farmers and and that partnership with farmers and and that partnership with farmers and and that the results of that are emerging and the results of that are emerging and the results of that are emerging and will probably be coming out in will probably be coming out in will probably be coming out in publications next year. Um, but what publications next year. Um, but what publications next year. Um, but what we're now thinking about is how to scale we're now thinking about is how to scale we're now thinking about is how to scale it up. So, we've done that in two it up. So, we've done that in two it up. So, we've done that in two landscapes with a relatively limited landscapes with a relatively limited landscapes with a relatively limited number of farms and we did some very number of farms and we did some very number of farms and we did some very detailed monitoring of the outcomes of detailed monitoring of the outcomes of detailed monitoring of the outcomes of the transition to regenerative the transition to regenerative the transition to regenerative agriculture. We work with farmers that agriculture. We work with farmers that agriculture. We work with farmers that are not regenerative, farmers that are are not regenerative, farmers that are are not regenerative, farmers that are regenerative, and farmers that are regenerative, and farmers that are regenerative, and farmers that are making a transition from non to making a transition from non to making a transition from non to regenerative during the course of the regenerative during the course of the regenerative during the course of the the project. So then we're measuring all the project. So then we're measuring all the project. So then we're measuring all these outcomes. We're measuring the these outcomes. We're measuring the these outcomes. We're measuring the quality of the soil. We're measuring how quality of the soil. We're measuring how quality of the soil. We're measuring how the large water stable aggregates hold the large water stable aggregates hold the large water stable aggregates hold carbon in the soil and we're measuring carbon in the soil and we're measuring carbon in the soil and we're measuring the biodiversity, so the response of the biodiversity, so the response of the biodiversity, so the response of birds and the response of insects and birds and the response of insects and birds and the response of insects and the economics of that change. Um, but the economics of that change. Um, but the economics of that change. Um, but it's a it's context dependent. It's it's a it's context dependent. It's it's a it's context dependent. It's different places. So what we're doing different places. So what we're doing different places. So what we're doing now is scaling that. We're we're trying now is scaling that. We're we're trying now is scaling that. We're we're trying to get funding at the moment to scale it to get funding at the moment to scale it to get funding at the moment to scale it to a much larger number of farms across to a much larger number of farms across to a much larger number of farms across the country. Working with in partnership the country. Working with in partnership the country. Working with in partnership with both farmers and also supply chain with both farmers and also supply chain with both farmers and also supply chain retailers to try and find ways to retailers to try and find ways to retailers to try and find ways to measure the outcomes that are scalable. measure the outcomes that are scalable. measure the outcomes that are scalable. So it's very exciting time to work in So it's very exciting time to work in So it's very exciting time to work in biodiversity research which is my main biodiversity research which is my main biodiversity research which is my main focus because there are these emerging focus because there are these emerging focus because there are these emerging technologies acoustic monitoring image technologies acoustic monitoring image technologies acoustic monitoring image recognition remote sensing which enable recognition remote sensing which enable recognition remote sensing which enable you to measure biodiversity that those you to measure biodiversity that those you to measure biodiversity that those technologies allow us to scale the technologies allow us to scale the technologies allow us to scale the monitoring and to enable farmers to monitoring and to enable farmers to monitoring and to enable farmers to themselves be in charge of the themselves be in charge of the themselves be in charge of the monitoring for things like biodiversity monitoring for things like biodiversity monitoring for things like biodiversity outcomes. And we're looking more outcomes. And we're looking more outcomes. And we're looking more carefully now at climate change carefully now at climate change carefully now at climate change outcomes. So the the kind of how well is outcomes. So the the kind of how well is outcomes. So the the kind of how well is this mitigating climate change and this mitigating climate change and this mitigating climate change and reducing your greenhouse gas emissions reducing your greenhouse gas emissions reducing your greenhouse gas emissions actually measuring those outcomes the actually measuring those outcomes the actually measuring those outcomes the the technology to scale that at low cost the technology to scale that at low cost the technology to scale that at low cost isn't really validated yet but there's a isn't really validated yet but there's a isn't really validated yet but there's a lot of people working on it so we're lot of people working on it so we're lot of people working on it so we're we're also pushing at that boundary so we're also pushing at that boundary so we're also pushing at that boundary so we want to be able to scale up the we want to be able to scale up the we want to be able to scale up the monitoring and re and and the final monitoring and re and and the final monitoring and re and and the final thing to say about the direction we're thing to say about the direction we're thing to say about the direction we're going is I work in conservation science going is I work in conservation science going is I work in conservation science and conservation science has woken up in and conservation science has woken up in and conservation science has woken up in the last five years to the methods that the last five years to the methods that the last five years to the methods that have been developed in econ econometrics have been developed in econ econometrics have been developed in econ econometrics which is a branch of economics to which is a branch of economics to which is a branch of economics to understand the causal effects of understand the causal effects of understand the causal effects of different changes in real complex different changes in real complex different changes in real complex settings like real world situations settings like real world situations settings like real world situations where nothing is simple and everything's where nothing is simple and everything's where nothing is simple and everything's complex and different. There are loads complex and different. There are loads complex and different. There are loads of statistical methods to take account of statistical methods to take account of statistical methods to take account of confounding variables and try and of confounding variables and try and of confounding variables and try and work out whether something actually work out whether something actually work out whether something actually works in this real world setting. works in this real world setting. works in this real world setting. Conservation scientists are now using Conservation scientists are now using Conservation scientists are now using those methods. Hardly anyone in in those methods. Hardly anyone in in those methods. Hardly anyone in in agricultural sustainability is using agricultural sustainability is using agricultural sustainability is using them. So we're we're also pushing on them. So we're we're also pushing on them. So we're we're also pushing on that. So we want to look at the that. So we want to look at the that. So we want to look at the effectiveness of regenerative effectiveness of regenerative effectiveness of regenerative agriculture using the best methods of agriculture using the best methods of agriculture using the best methods of causal inference to properly design a causal inference to properly design a causal inference to properly design a study that will really get to that and study that will really get to that and study that will really get to that and allow us to be confident when we say allow us to be confident when we say allow us to be confident when we say this effect was an outcome from this effect was an outcome from this effect was an outcome from regenerative agriculture. Brilliant. regenerative agriculture. Brilliant. regenerative agriculture. Brilliant. Thank you. And let me ask you again the Thank you. And let me ask you again the Thank you. And let me ask you again the same question. What would you like to do same question. What would you like to do same question. What would you like to do next? I think this is the second next? I think this is the second next? I think this is the second question like the top questions you question like the top questions you question like the top questions you should not ask a PhD candidate. first is should not ask a PhD candidate. first is should not ask a PhD candidate. first is when when do you finish and then what is when when do you finish and then what is when when do you finish and then what is it that you're doing next? So I'm coming it that you're doing next? So I'm coming it that you're doing next? So I'm coming to the end of my PhD journey and it's a to the end of my PhD journey and it's a to the end of my PhD journey and it's a quite a of a bittersweet journey I have quite a of a bittersweet journey I have quite a of a bittersweet journey I have to say because I feel like the moment to say because I feel like the moment to say because I feel like the moment that I get confident with u my potential that I get confident with u my potential that I get confident with u my potential and the work the value of my and the work the value of my and the work the value of my contribution to the debate is the time contribution to the debate is the time contribution to the debate is the time to wrap things up and finish. So I'm I'm to wrap things up and finish. So I'm I'm to wrap things up and finish. So I'm I'm not sure. I think what I would like is not sure. I think what I would like is not sure. I think what I would like is to have a more of a hands-on experience, to have a more of a hands-on experience, to have a more of a hands-on experience, maybe work with a study case or work maybe work with a study case or work maybe work with a study case or work together with a farmer that is willing together with a farmer that is willing together with a farmer that is willing to cooperate. Agree with what's been to cooperate. Agree with what's been to cooperate. Agree with what's been said before about the need for a said before about the need for a said before about the need for a holistic approach. I think this is an holistic approach. I think this is an holistic approach. I think this is an aspect of science and research that is aspect of science and research that is aspect of science and research that is hard to apply to agriculture is that we hard to apply to agriculture is that we hard to apply to agriculture is that we want to be we want to have general want to be we want to have general want to be we want to have general statements and general conclusions. uh statements and general conclusions. uh statements and general conclusions. uh but oftentimes uh in the case for but oftentimes uh in the case for but oftentimes uh in the case for agricultural systems they are very agricultural systems they are very agricultural systems they are very contextsp specific uh we had this one contextsp specific uh we had this one contextsp specific uh we had this one quote that I thought was brilliant from quote that I thought was brilliant from quote that I thought was brilliant from one of the farmers in our survey where one of the farmers in our survey where one of the farmers in our survey where he said and I quote with all due respect he said and I quote with all due respect he said and I quote with all due respect there are so many different and there are so many different and there are so many different and contrasting recommendations that it is contrasting recommendations that it is contrasting recommendations that it is hard for me to know what is best in my hard for me to know what is best in my hard for me to know what is best in my particular case so that really caught my particular case so that really caught my particular case so that really caught my eye four years ago when we did it I eye four years ago when we did it I eye four years ago when we did it I would really like to contribute to would really like to contribute to would really like to contribute to answering these questions. Well, thank answering these questions. Well, thank answering these questions. Well, thank you. I think that was a hugely inspiring you. I think that was a hugely inspiring you. I think that was a hugely inspiring way to conclude our discussion. Um, way to conclude our discussion. Um, way to conclude our discussion. Um, Anna, Lynn, Aal, huge thanks for really, Anna, Lynn, Aal, huge thanks for really, Anna, Lynn, Aal, huge thanks for really, really fascinating discussion. If you'd really fascinating discussion. If you'd really fascinating discussion. If you'd like to follow up their research and like to follow up their research and like to follow up their research and indeed to read the papers on which our indeed to read the papers on which our indeed to read the papers on which our discussion has been based, please go to discussion has been based, please go to discussion has been based, please go to the new podcast page on the BSS website the new podcast page on the BSS website the new podcast page on the BSS website and you'll find a series of links. and you'll find a series of links. and you'll find a series of links. [Music] [Music] [Music] And to finish today, I'd like to have a And to finish today, I'd like to have a And to finish today, I'd like to have a chat with Leo Condrron, editor-inchief chat with Leo Condrron, editor-inchief chat with Leo Condrron, editor-inchief of Soil Use and Management. Leo, of Soil Use and Management. Leo, of Soil Use and Management. Leo, welcome. This is Sum's 40th anniversary welcome. This is Sum's 40th anniversary welcome. This is Sum's 40th anniversary year, and we've already been discussing year, and we've already been discussing year, and we've already been discussing a range of topics that have been at the a range of topics that have been at the a range of topics that have been at the heart of soil use and management. Remind heart of soil use and management. Remind heart of soil use and management. Remind me of your mission. Thank you, Paul. me of your mission. Thank you, Paul. me of your mission. Thank you, Paul. It's a pleasure to be here. I took over It's a pleasure to be here. I took over It's a pleasure to be here. I took over as the editor just four months ago and as the editor just four months ago and as the editor just four months ago and one of the tasks that we've done is to one of the tasks that we've done is to one of the tasks that we've done is to actually revise the mission statement, actually revise the mission statement, actually revise the mission statement, right? It's um and we're still going right? It's um and we're still going right? It's um and we're still going through the final draft of it, but I through the final draft of it, but I through the final draft of it, but I think the best way to do it is just to think the best way to do it is just to think the best way to do it is just to give you the mission. The journal is give you the mission. The journal is give you the mission. The journal is pretty much as goes on the title. It's pretty much as goes on the title. It's pretty much as goes on the title. It's about soil use and management, but it about soil use and management, but it about soil use and management, but it basically obviously it's focused on basically obviously it's focused on basically obviously it's focused on soils, right? But it also includes soils, right? But it also includes soils, right? But it also includes within the wider context of agricultural within the wider context of agricultural within the wider context of agricultural science, environmental science, and science, environmental science, and science, environmental science, and importantly policy studies that relate importantly policy studies that relate importantly policy studies that relate to those factors. We're interested in to those factors. We're interested in to those factors. We're interested in obviously obviously obviously significant new novel information or significant new novel information or significant new novel information or insight on the influence of natural and insight on the influence of natural and insight on the influence of natural and anthropogenic processes on the function, anthropogenic processes on the function, anthropogenic processes on the function, productivity, health and sustainability productivity, health and sustainability productivity, health and sustainability of managed solar systems. of managed solar systems. of managed solar systems. And a very important part of that is the And a very important part of that is the And a very important part of that is the role of what we call soil stewardship role of what we call soil stewardship role of what we call soil stewardship which is a very important concept I which is a very important concept I which is a very important concept I think in addressing global issues as think in addressing global issues as think in addressing global issues as well because there are impacts here well because there are impacts here well because there are impacts here beyond what you might call the farm gate beyond what you might call the farm gate beyond what you might call the farm gate or whatever in terms of global issues or whatever in terms of global issues or whatever in terms of global issues such as the mitigation of and adaptation such as the mitigation of and adaptation such as the mitigation of and adaptation to ongoing climate change environmental to ongoing climate change environmental to ongoing climate change environmental quality food security and specifically quality food security and specifically quality food security and specifically progress towards achievement of specific progress towards achievement of specific progress towards achievement of specific UN sustainable development ment goals. I UN sustainable development ment goals. I UN sustainable development ment goals. I think that that pretty much sums up well think that that pretty much sums up well think that that pretty much sums up well where we're going. But the emphasis is where we're going. But the emphasis is where we're going. But the emphasis is really on the management of soil and how really on the management of soil and how really on the management of soil and how we manage the so there is a component we manage the so there is a component we manage the so there is a component there of land use and land use change there of land use and land use change there of land use and land use change but land use and management are are two but land use and management are are two but land use and management are are two comparable components. And let me ask comparable components. And let me ask comparable components. And let me ask you what may be an obvious question but you what may be an obvious question but you what may be an obvious question but why is soil stewardship so important? I why is soil stewardship so important? I why is soil stewardship so important? I mean it's obviously the foundation of mean it's obviously the foundation of mean it's obviously the foundation of our terrestrial food systems. The our terrestrial food systems. The our terrestrial food systems. The sustainable management of those sustainable management of those sustainable management of those resources is absolutely crucial because resources is absolutely crucial because resources is absolutely crucial because any degradation or loss of any soil is any degradation or loss of any soil is any degradation or loss of any soil is very hard. Well, loss of soil is is very hard. Well, loss of soil is is very hard. Well, loss of soil is is irreversible but any reduction in the irreversible but any reduction in the irreversible but any reduction in the capacity of a soil to function is a has capacity of a soil to function is a has capacity of a soil to function is a has a very very important component on not a very very important component on not a very very important component on not only food supply and food security but only food supply and food security but only food supply and food security but also the economic value. Farming is a also the economic value. Farming is a also the economic value. Farming is a business and there's a lot of the world business and there's a lot of the world business and there's a lot of the world where farming is subsistence but um in where farming is subsistence but um in where farming is subsistence but um in many parts of the world farming is a many parts of the world farming is a many parts of the world farming is a business. So that there has to be a an business. So that there has to be a an business. So that there has to be a an economic imperative in there as well. economic imperative in there as well. economic imperative in there as well. But it's getting that balance between But it's getting that balance between But it's getting that balance between economic, environmental, social and economic, environmental, social and economic, environmental, social and those sorts of values. That's very very those sorts of values. That's very very those sorts of values. That's very very important and that's where the policy important and that's where the policy important and that's where the policy thing comes in as well. And what would thing comes in as well. And what would thing comes in as well. And what would you say are the key trends this year? I you say are the key trends this year? I you say are the key trends this year? I would say that the continuing trends is would say that the continuing trends is would say that the continuing trends is there's a lot of work coming in on soil there's a lot of work coming in on soil there's a lot of work coming in on soil organic matter because soil organic organic matter because soil organic organic matter because soil organic matter is key to to soil management matter is key to to soil management matter is key to to soil management because it directs so many of the of the because it directs so many of the of the because it directs so many of the of the the chemical the biological the physical the chemical the biological the physical the chemical the biological the physical properties of soil which which rounds properties of soil which which rounds properties of soil which which rounds round to things like soil health which round to things like soil health which round to things like soil health which which you've been talking about. It's a which you've been talking about. It's a which you've been talking about. It's a theme it just keeps coming through. The theme it just keeps coming through. The theme it just keeps coming through. The other thing is amendment of soil in other thing is amendment of soil in other thing is amendment of soil in terms of um not only fertilizer terms of um not only fertilizer terms of um not only fertilizer materials but also things like biochar materials but also things like biochar materials but also things like biochar charcoal and specifically I wouldn't charcoal and specifically I wouldn't charcoal and specifically I wouldn't identify there's any any trends it's identify there's any any trends it's identify there's any any trends it's just it's basically tracking along that just it's basically tracking along that just it's basically tracking along that way because we don't tend to deal with way because we don't tend to deal with way because we don't tend to deal with direct fertilizer work that's more and direct fertilizer work that's more and direct fertilizer work that's more and for other more other journals although for other more other journals although for other more other journals although there are aspects that we cover. So, in there are aspects that we cover. So, in there are aspects that we cover. So, in terms of the way you'll be putting terms of the way you'll be putting terms of the way you'll be putting together your your program over the next together your your program over the next together your your program over the next year, obviously you've got an incredible year, obviously you've got an incredible year, obviously you've got an incredible choice, but it's very useful for choice, but it's very useful for choice, but it's very useful for potential writers to know what the potential writers to know what the potential writers to know what the structure is. So, in terms of the structure is. So, in terms of the structure is. So, in terms of the journal's key themes, could you outline journal's key themes, could you outline journal's key themes, could you outline where you are for the next say the next where you are for the next say the next where you are for the next say the next two or three issues? There's a number of two or three issues? There's a number of two or three issues? There's a number of ways that we can do this and different ways that we can do this and different ways that we can do this and different journals do it different ways. uh one is journals do it different ways. uh one is journals do it different ways. uh one is is through what we call special issues is through what we call special issues is through what we call special issues or special collections which are focused or special collections which are focused or special collections which are focused on particular topics and for example on particular topics and for example on particular topics and for example we've got two at the moment as I say I'm we've got two at the moment as I say I'm we've got two at the moment as I say I'm just I'm relatively new to the job so just I'm relatively new to the job so just I'm relatively new to the job so it's something what we're going to it's something what we're going to it's something what we're going to develop but there's two one is on the develop but there's two one is on the develop but there's two one is on the integration of nature-based solutions integration of nature-based solutions integration of nature-based solutions into soil and land management decisions into soil and land management decisions into soil and land management decisions and the other one is specifically on and the other one is specifically on and the other one is specifically on conservation tillage for managing conservation tillage for managing conservation tillage for managing degraded soils in China so those ones degraded soils in China so those ones degraded soils in China so those ones are wrapping up and so I'm right in the are wrapping up and so I'm right in the are wrapping up and so I'm right in the middle of actually developing a a middle of actually developing a a middle of actually developing a a strategy and a mechanisms for actually strategy and a mechanisms for actually strategy and a mechanisms for actually developing new topics that we want to developing new topics that we want to developing new topics that we want to pursue. We got to also be cognizant of pursue. We got to also be cognizant of pursue. We got to also be cognizant of what other journals are doing because we what other journals are doing because we what other journals are doing because we obviously don't want to obviously don't want to obviously don't want to be copying or or you know um duplicating be copying or or you know um duplicating be copying or or you know um duplicating what other people are doing but we've what other people are doing but we've what other people are doing but we've got to be within our mission. Um it's got to be within our mission. Um it's got to be within our mission. Um it's very important. And so there's a number very important. And so there's a number very important. And so there's a number of conversations going on at the moment of conversations going on at the moment of conversations going on at the moment about that. Another way of doing it is about that. Another way of doing it is about that. Another way of doing it is essentially commissioning keynote review essentially commissioning keynote review essentially commissioning keynote review articles or commentary articles and we articles or commentary articles and we articles or commentary articles and we actually have that mechanism in place in actually have that mechanism in place in actually have that mechanism in place in in soil use and management and we're in soil use and management and we're in soil use and management and we're just discussing how how we advance that just discussing how how we advance that just discussing how how we advance that at the moment and that that's a at the moment and that that's a at the moment and that that's a situation where we say we can see a gap situation where we say we can see a gap situation where we say we can see a gap there in terms of we want to highlight a there in terms of we want to highlight a there in terms of we want to highlight a particular aspect. And what should particular aspect. And what should particular aspect. And what should people do if they've got an idea for people do if they've got an idea for people do if they've got an idea for publication? they should just email me. publication? they should just email me. publication? they should just email me. It's it's simple, you know, my my emails It's it's simple, you know, my my emails It's it's simple, you know, my my emails on the SUM website. Yeah. And and and on the SUM website. Yeah. And and and on the SUM website. Yeah. And and and just today, just this this evening, just today, just this this evening, just today, just this this evening, sorry, I had I had an inquiry for for sorry, I had I had an inquiry for for sorry, I had I had an inquiry for for for example, for a review. Um and and for example, for a review. Um and and for example, for a review. Um and and also it was a suggestion about also it was a suggestion about also it was a suggestion about potentially a special issue. Um potentially a special issue. Um potentially a special issue. Um alternatively, they can contact the alternatively, they can contact the alternatively, they can contact the journal, but the best the simplest way journal, but the best the simplest way journal, but the best the simplest way is to is to contact me and and start a is to is to contact me and and start a is to is to contact me and and start a conversation. Brilliant. That is really conversation. Brilliant. That is really conversation. Brilliant. That is really helpful. So Leo, thank you and thanks helpful. So Leo, thank you and thanks helpful. So Leo, thank you and thanks for joining us today on Soil Matters. for joining us today on Soil Matters. for joining us today on Soil Matters. 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Hi, my name is Professor Jack Hannam and Hi, my name is Professor Jack Hannam and Hi, my name is Professor Jack Hannam and I'm a soil scientist and I'm past I'm a soil scientist and I'm past I'm a soil scientist and I'm past president of the British Society of Soil president of the British Society of Soil president of the British Society of Soil Science. Did you know the health of our Science. Did you know the health of our Science. Did you know the health of our soil affects everything? Our food, our soil affects everything? Our food, our soil affects everything? Our food, our climate, our health, and our future. climate, our health, and our future. climate, our health, and our future. Formed in 1947, the British Society of Formed in 1947, the British Society of Formed in 1947, the British Society of Soil Science is a professional Soil Science is a professional Soil Science is a professional membership body dedicated to protecting, membership body dedicated to protecting, membership body dedicated to protecting, improving, and discovering new knowledge improving, and discovering new knowledge improving, and discovering new knowledge about the foundation of our planet, about the foundation of our planet, about the foundation of our planet, soil. from developing cutting edge soil. from developing cutting edge soil. from developing cutting edge research, engaging with international research, engaging with international research, engaging with international and domestic governments through and domestic governments through and domestic governments through science-led policy and advocacy to science-led policy and advocacy to science-led policy and advocacy to publishing in leading sector journals publishing in leading sector journals publishing in leading sector journals and accessing extensive educational and accessing extensive educational and accessing extensive educational resources. 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Join a passionate community committed to Join a passionate community committed to Join a passionate community committed to tackling the future generational tackling the future generational tackling the future generational climate, biodiversity, and food security climate, biodiversity, and food security climate, biodiversity, and food security challenges. Don't wait. Get involved challenges. Don't wait. Get involved challenges. Don't wait. Get involved today because soil is where it all today because soil is where it all today because soil is where it all begins. And soil matters now more than begins. And soil matters now more than begins. And soil matters now more than ever. Find out more at soils.org.uk. ever. Find out more at soils.org.uk. ever. Find out more at soils.org.uk. [Music]
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Zoom into Soil: Soil Organic Matter

2026-05-29T14:08:52Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Zoom into Soil: Soil Organic Matter
| Producteur = British Society of Soil Science
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_pRWWN4o9BO4.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2021-02-02
| Durée = 60 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRWWN4o9BO4
| Mots-clés = soil, soils, science, environment, geography, geology, earth science, soil science, ecology
}}

Welcome to the Zoom into Soil: Soil Organic Matter video from the British Society of Soil Science.

The webinar featured Dr Tom Sizmur, Associate Professor in Environmental Chemistry at the University of Reading, and Julian Gold, Farm Manager at Hendred Estate, with their presentations, 'How does Organic Matter become Soil Organic Matter?' and 'Building and Retaining Soil Organic Matter on Hendred Estate: Some Practical Issues and Thoughts'.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = good afternoon everyone welcome good afternoon everyone welcome good afternoon everyone welcome to the meeting uh i'm bruce sells and as to the meeting uh i'm bruce sells and as to the meeting uh i'm bruce sells and as the new president of the british society the new president of the british society the new president of the british society of soil science of soil science of soil science i am delighted to welcome you all to our i am delighted to welcome you all to our i am delighted to welcome you all to our fourth zoom into saw webinar and our fourth zoom into saw webinar and our fourth zoom into saw webinar and our first of 2021 first of 2021 first of 2021 today's event has been supported by one today's event has been supported by one today's event has been supported by one of our regional groups of our regional groups of our regional groups the southeast england saw discussion the southeast england saw discussion the southeast england saw discussion group which is also known as sea soil group which is also known as sea soil group which is also known as sea soil which is chaired by leila fraud before i which is chaired by leila fraud before i which is chaired by leila fraud before i welcome welcome welcome our two speakers i would like to quickly our two speakers i would like to quickly our two speakers i would like to quickly introduce the british british society of introduce the british british society of introduce the british british society of saw science for those who are not so saw science for those who are not so saw science for those who are not so aware of who we are and what we do aware of who we are and what we do aware of who we are and what we do we are an established international we are an established international we are an established international membership organization and a charity membership organization and a charity membership organization and a charity committed to the study of so its widest committed to the study of so its widest committed to the study of so its widest aspects aspects aspects we bring together those working within we bring together those working within we bring together those working within academia and have a growing membership academia and have a growing membership academia and have a growing membership amongst practitioners implementing amongst practitioners implementing amongst practitioners implementing source science in industry as well as source science in industry as well as source science in industry as well as those with a keen interest in soils those with a keen interest in soils those with a keen interest in soils this year we're going to be running 10 this year we're going to be running 10 this year we're going to be running 10 zoom into soil webinars and the next one zoom into soil webinars and the next one zoom into soil webinars and the next one in the series in the series in the series will be hosted by our northern soil will be hosted by our northern soil will be hosted by our northern soil network group and that will be on network group and that will be on network group and that will be on wednesday the 3rd of march wednesday the 3rd of march wednesday the 3rd of march on the topic of soil functions and on the topic of soil functions and on the topic of soil functions and further information will be distributed further information will be distributed further information will be distributed after today's event after today's event after today's event we're also really hopeful that we'll be we're also really hopeful that we'll be we're also really hopeful that we'll be able to run our two flagship events for able to run our two flagship events for able to run our two flagship events for in person later this year these will be in person later this year these will be in person later this year these will be the early career researchers conference the early career researchers conference the early career researchers conference on monday the 6th of september at the on monday the 6th of september at the on monday the 6th of september at the radisson blue in glasgow radisson blue in glasgow radisson blue in glasgow and our annual conference and gala and our annual conference and gala and our annual conference and gala dinner which will be on the tuesday the dinner which will be on the tuesday the dinner which will be on the tuesday the 7th and wednesday the 8th of september 7th and wednesday the 8th of september 7th and wednesday the 8th of september at the royal college of physicians in at the royal college of physicians in at the royal college of physicians in glasgow glasgow glasgow both of these events will provide an both of these events will provide an both of these events will provide an opportunity to hear from invited opportunity to hear from invited opportunity to hear from invited speakers from diverse soil science speakers from diverse soil science speakers from diverse soil science specialisms see the latest research specialisms see the latest research specialisms see the latest research through through through oral and poster presentations and also oral and poster presentations and also oral and poster presentations and also network with colleagues and again we're network with colleagues and again we're network with colleagues and again we're really hopeful that we can do that in really hopeful that we can do that in really hopeful that we can do that in person later this year person later this year person later this year so further information on participating so further information on participating so further information on participating in both events will be available on our in both events will be available on our in both events will be available on our website website website in the coming weeks and and we really do in the coming weeks and and we really do in the coming weeks and and we really do look forward to seeing look forward to seeing look forward to seeing as many you there as possible and do as many you there as possible and do as many you there as possible and do hope that you'll be able to join us hope that you'll be able to join us hope that you'll be able to join us so just before we uh start today's so just before we uh start today's so just before we uh start today's presentations presentations presentations uh some basic housekeeping with so many uh some basic housekeeping with so many uh some basic housekeeping with so many of you here today of you here today of you here today all your microphones have been muted we all your microphones have been muted we all your microphones have been muted we will be taking questions at the end of will be taking questions at the end of will be taking questions at the end of both presentations and both presentations and both presentations and tom is going to monitor uh those for us tom is going to monitor uh those for us tom is going to monitor uh those for us so if you could please so if you could please so if you could please submit any questions you've got by 1250 submit any questions you've got by 1250 submit any questions you've got by 1250 that will hopefully allow us to get that will hopefully allow us to get that will hopefully allow us to get through as many of those through as many of those through as many of those as we can and whilst on the system there as we can and whilst on the system there as we can and whilst on the system there is a raise your hand button we won't be is a raise your hand button we won't be is a raise your hand button we won't be using this unless the the presenter using this unless the the presenter using this unless the the presenter specifically asks for a show of hands specifically asks for a show of hands specifically asks for a show of hands and and and today's presentations uh have also been today's presentations uh have also been today's presentations uh have also been awarded basis awarded basis awarded basis and nroso cpd points so if you're and nroso cpd points so if you're and nroso cpd points so if you're registered with either of those bodies registered with either of those bodies registered with either of those bodies please contact us directly please contact us directly please contact us directly after the event and finally uh just after the event and finally uh just after the event and finally uh just please be aware that we are recording please be aware that we are recording please be aware that we are recording today's presentation today's presentation today's presentation so moving on to today um i would first so moving on to today um i would first so moving on to today um i would first like to introduce our first presenter like to introduce our first presenter like to introduce our first presenter dr tom sisma tom dr tom sisma tom dr tom sisma tom is an associate professor in is an associate professor in is an associate professor in environmental chemistry whose research environmental chemistry whose research environmental chemistry whose research focuses on the biology focuses on the biology focuses on the biology geochemistry of soils he leads a geochemistry of soils he leads a geochemistry of soils he leads a research group consisting of phd research group consisting of phd research group consisting of phd students students students post-docs and research technicians at post-docs and research technicians at post-docs and research technicians at the university of reading the university of reading the university of reading who all contribute to the wider vision who all contribute to the wider vision who all contribute to the wider vision he has to exploit organic matter and he has to exploit organic matter and he has to exploit organic matter and soil soil soil biological communities to provide biological communities to provide biological communities to provide ecosystem functions and services that ecosystem functions and services that ecosystem functions and services that benefit society benefit society benefit society he is the principal investigator of the he is the principal investigator of the he is the principal investigator of the diverse project diverse project diverse project which aims to investigate the influence which aims to investigate the influence which aims to investigate the influence of residues incorporated of residues incorporated of residues incorporated after growing cover crop mixtures on after growing cover crop mixtures on after growing cover crop mixtures on carbon and nitrogen cycling carbon and nitrogen cycling carbon and nitrogen cycling tom's interests particularly relate to tom's interests particularly relate to tom's interests particularly relate to the benefit that can be obtained from the benefit that can be obtained from the benefit that can be obtained from the incorporation of crop residues the incorporation of crop residues the incorporation of crop residues and other organic amendments into soils and other organic amendments into soils and other organic amendments into soils to recycle nutrients and feed soil to recycle nutrients and feed soil to recycle nutrients and feed soil organisms organisms organisms whilst there's widespread acceptance whilst there's widespread acceptance whilst there's widespread acceptance that increasing soil organic matter is a that increasing soil organic matter is a that increasing soil organic matter is a laudable aim laudable aim laudable aim and that organic amendments are and that organic amendments are and that organic amendments are attractable means to achieve this aim attractable means to achieve this aim attractable means to achieve this aim the objective of his research is to the objective of his research is to the objective of his research is to identify or develop strategies identify or develop strategies identify or develop strategies whereby the maximum possible benefits whereby the maximum possible benefits whereby the maximum possible benefits are obtained by the judicious are obtained by the judicious are obtained by the judicious application application application of situation appropriate amendments and of situation appropriate amendments and of situation appropriate amendments and so with no so with no so with no nothing informally over to you tom nothing informally over to you tom nothing informally over to you tom thank you very much bruce um so i'll thank you very much bruce um so i'll thank you very much bruce um so i'll just share my screen now and hopefully just share my screen now and hopefully just share my screen now and hopefully um uh you can see it and continue um um uh you can see it and continue um um uh you can see it and continue um uh with my presentation so yeah i'm tom uh with my presentation so yeah i'm tom uh with my presentation so yeah i'm tom sissman thank you very much for the sissman thank you very much for the sissman thank you very much for the introduction and good afternoon introduction and good afternoon introduction and good afternoon um to everyone um um to everyone um um to everyone um um i'm um i'm um i'm just experiencing a few issues um just experiencing a few issues um just experiencing a few issues um i think i've got my presentation shared i think i've got my presentation shared i think i've got my presentation shared now uh so do come back on bruce if it's now uh so do come back on bruce if it's now uh so do come back on bruce if it's not if it's not showing not if it's not showing not if it's not showing um so i'd just like to say that today's um so i'd just like to say that today's um so i'd just like to say that today's presentation is presentation is presentation is um is a collaborative effort so it's not um is a collaborative effort so it's not um is a collaborative effort so it's not just um just um just um me but also um sort of several members me but also um sort of several members me but also um sort of several members of my of my of my uh research group that contributed to uh research group that contributed to uh research group that contributed to the stuff that i'm going to the stuff that i'm going to the stuff that i'm going to share here uh in particular uh marika share here uh in particular uh marika share here uh in particular uh marika strauck um strauck um strauck um shinshu and eddie anthony who've kind of shinshu and eddie anthony who've kind of shinshu and eddie anthony who've kind of contributed contributed contributed um sort of slides or data that i'm gonna um sort of slides or data that i'm gonna um sort of slides or data that i'm gonna be sharing be sharing be sharing uh with you today i just wanted to start uh with you today i just wanted to start uh with you today i just wanted to start here with my here with my here with my take home messages for take home messages for take home messages for today's presentation and so first of all today's presentation and so first of all today's presentation and so first of all i'd just like to say that i'd just like to say that i'd just like to say that um not all sort organic matter is the um not all sort organic matter is the um not all sort organic matter is the same same same it's not all created equal and i'll it's not all created equal and i'll it's not all created equal and i'll introduce you to to three different introduce you to to three different introduce you to to three different key groups of organic matter within key groups of organic matter within key groups of organic matter within soils so particulate soils so particulate soils so particulate organic matter aggregate bound organic organic matter aggregate bound organic organic matter aggregate bound organic matter and mineral associated matter and mineral associated matter and mineral associated organic matter and then i want to organic matter and then i want to organic matter and then i want to introduce you to the concept of carbon introduce you to the concept of carbon introduce you to the concept of carbon use efficiency use efficiency use efficiency of the microbial communities in soils of the microbial communities in soils of the microbial communities in soils and how this can be manipulated and how this can be manipulated and how this can be manipulated in order to increase the amount of in order to increase the amount of in order to increase the amount of organic matter and that organic matter and that organic matter and that becomes stabilized in soil and a few becomes stabilized in soil and a few becomes stabilized in soil and a few strategies that we might want to strategies that we might want to strategies that we might want to employ in order to increase that um uh employ in order to increase that um uh employ in order to increase that um uh stable organic matter stable organic matter stable organic matter in soil so applying labile low um in soil so applying labile low um in soil so applying labile low um carbon to nitrogen ratio amendments carbon to nitrogen ratio amendments carbon to nitrogen ratio amendments perhaps mixing perhaps mixing perhaps mixing um high and low carbon to nitrogen ratio um high and low carbon to nitrogen ratio um high and low carbon to nitrogen ratio amendments amendments amendments and growing plants in in polyculture so and growing plants in in polyculture so and growing plants in in polyculture so we've got diverse we've got diverse we've got diverse amendments and going to the soil and amendments and going to the soil and amendments and going to the soil and then at the end i also kind of want to then at the end i also kind of want to then at the end i also kind of want to highlight that this is highlight that this is highlight that this is a bit of a journey that we're on and a bit of a journey that we're on and a bit of a journey that we're on and that we've still got quite a lot to that we've still got quite a lot to that we've still got quite a lot to learn so i kind of want to share with learn so i kind of want to share with learn so i kind of want to share with you some of the sort of things that i'm you some of the sort of things that i'm you some of the sort of things that i'm thinking about at the moment as to how thinking about at the moment as to how thinking about at the moment as to how we can then advance we can then advance we can then advance um our knowledge of how we might be able um our knowledge of how we might be able um our knowledge of how we might be able to exploit to exploit to exploit uh microbial carbon use efficiency um of uh microbial carbon use efficiency um of uh microbial carbon use efficiency um of our soil microbial communities to help our soil microbial communities to help our soil microbial communities to help build um build um build um soil organic matter but first of all soil organic matter but first of all soil organic matter but first of all just a bit of an introduction just a bit of an introduction just a bit of an introduction um to soil organic matter um so what it um to soil organic matter um so what it um to soil organic matter um so what it what it does for us and what benefits we what it does for us and what benefits we what it does for us and what benefits we can obtain from it can obtain from it can obtain from it and there's a number of different ways and there's a number of different ways and there's a number of different ways in which we can build soil organic in which we can build soil organic in which we can build soil organic matter matter matter in source by adding organic inputs so we in source by adding organic inputs so we in source by adding organic inputs so we can add can add can add manures for example we can add other manures for example we can add other manures for example we can add other soil amendments like composts or soil amendments like composts or soil amendments like composts or anaerobic digestates anaerobic digestates anaerobic digestates we can return the residues of crops um we can return the residues of crops um we can return the residues of crops um into soils into soils into soils we can grow cover crops in between cash we can grow cover crops in between cash we can grow cover crops in between cash crops crops crops as a way of growing having more plant as a way of growing having more plant as a way of growing having more plant material that we can material that we can material that we can add into the soil and also all of these add into the soil and also all of these add into the soil and also all of these um crops and plants that we grow in our um crops and plants that we grow in our um crops and plants that we grow in our soils soils soils will be releasing a root exudate so will be releasing a root exudate so will be releasing a root exudate so that's carbon that's being pumped down that's carbon that's being pumped down that's carbon that's being pumped down um into the soil um from the plants um into the soil um from the plants um into the soil um from the plants and so what what sort of functions are and so what what sort of functions are and so what what sort of functions are these does this organic matter then these does this organic matter then these does this organic matter then uh provide well it's it's it's very uh provide well it's it's it's very uh provide well it's it's it's very importantly a food importantly a food importantly a food for not just the microbial biomass but for not just the microbial biomass but for not just the microbial biomass but for the entire uh soil for the entire uh soil for the entire uh soil food web which themselves provide a lot food web which themselves provide a lot food web which themselves provide a lot of functions and services of functions and services of functions and services so our soil organic matter helps our so our soil organic matter helps our so our soil organic matter helps our soils to retain soils to retain soils to retain water uh and nutrients it helps benefit water uh and nutrients it helps benefit water uh and nutrients it helps benefit our soil structure our soil structure our soil structure and ultimately this uh this crummy sort and ultimately this uh this crummy sort and ultimately this uh this crummy sort of soil structure you get of soil structure you get of soil structure you get um through these stable aggregates that um through these stable aggregates that um through these stable aggregates that are stabilized by the presence of the are stabilized by the presence of the are stabilized by the presence of the carbon and carbon and carbon and helps our soils infiltrate water and helps our soils infiltrate water and helps our soils infiltrate water and helps to to store water helps to to store water helps to to store water ultimately the benefits to land managers ultimately the benefits to land managers ultimately the benefits to land managers are that we get improved crop yield and are that we get improved crop yield and are that we get improved crop yield and quality quality quality we create soils that are potentially we create soils that are potentially we create soils that are potentially more resilient to extreme more resilient to extreme more resilient to extreme weather events and we also weather events and we also weather events and we also are able to grow more crops with reduced are able to grow more crops with reduced are able to grow more crops with reduced inputs so we're able to increase the inputs so we're able to increase the inputs so we're able to increase the efficiency efficiency efficiency of our inputs and ultimately that soil of our inputs and ultimately that soil of our inputs and ultimately that soil organic matter helps to organic matter helps to organic matter helps to bind the soil together preventing bind the soil together preventing bind the soil together preventing erosion and ultimately improving the erosion and ultimately improving the erosion and ultimately improving the quality quality quality of our water both because there's less of our water both because there's less of our water both because there's less nutrients leaching through the profile nutrients leaching through the profile nutrients leaching through the profile and also less soil running off of our and also less soil running off of our and also less soil running off of our fields into rivers fields into rivers fields into rivers but the thing that i was to want to but the thing that i was to want to but the thing that i was to want to focus mostly on today focus mostly on today focus mostly on today is how does organic matter so the is how does organic matter so the is how does organic matter so the organic matter that we apply to soils or organic matter that we apply to soils or organic matter that we apply to soils or that enters that enters that enters soils how does that become soil uh soils how does that become soil uh soils how does that become soil uh organic matter um and until about sort organic matter um and until about sort organic matter um and until about sort of 10 of 10 of 10 years ago or so um the sort of the years ago or so um the sort of the years ago or so um the sort of the prevailing belief was that prevailing belief was that prevailing belief was that sole organic matter was essentially sole organic matter was essentially sole organic matter was essentially undecomposed plant material undecomposed plant material undecomposed plant material so plant material had been entered into so plant material had been entered into so plant material had been entered into the soils which then the soils which then the soils which then plays a little bit of a game of luck plays a little bit of a game of luck plays a little bit of a game of luck whereby some of that is decomposed and whereby some of that is decomposed and whereby some of that is decomposed and some of it isn't some of it isn't some of it isn't and perhaps some of the more and perhaps some of the more and perhaps some of the more recalcitrant compounds were believed to recalcitrant compounds were believed to recalcitrant compounds were believed to be be be those uh things that remain stable in those uh things that remain stable in those uh things that remain stable in soil for soil for soil for a long period of time now over the last a long period of time now over the last a long period of time now over the last sort of approximately 10 sort of approximately 10 sort of approximately 10 years there are our paradigm has shifted years there are our paradigm has shifted years there are our paradigm has shifted so our understanding of how so our understanding of how so our understanding of how soil organic matter um is created in soil organic matter um is created in soil organic matter um is created in soils has changed a little bit soils has changed a little bit soils has changed a little bit and i'll sort of briefly describe the and i'll sort of briefly describe the and i'll sort of briefly describe the sort of the major processes sort of the major processes sort of the major processes um using this diagram here so i um using this diagram here so i um using this diagram here so i appreciate that this is appreciate that this is appreciate that this is limited very much to the um to the limited very much to the um to the limited very much to the um to the extent of my artwork capabilities but extent of my artwork capabilities but extent of my artwork capabilities but this this this over here this picture of this straw over here this picture of this straw over here this picture of this straw represents kind of all plant litter represents kind of all plant litter represents kind of all plant litter that might then enter into soils and that might then enter into soils and that might then enter into soils and what we now know to be true is that the what we now know to be true is that the what we now know to be true is that the majority majority majority um the vast majority of that plant um the vast majority of that plant um the vast majority of that plant litter is decomposed or i should say is litter is decomposed or i should say is litter is decomposed or i should say is um goes into the microbial community is um goes into the microbial community is um goes into the microbial community is decomposed decomposed decomposed by the microbial community and in fact by the microbial community and in fact by the microbial community and in fact the entire soil the entire soil the entire soil food web in a relatively short um period food web in a relatively short um period food web in a relatively short um period of time of time of time and then again the majority of that and then again the majority of that and then again the majority of that carbon that comes in then leaves the carbon that comes in then leaves the carbon that comes in then leaves the system system system as carbon dioxide and occasionally as as carbon dioxide and occasionally as as carbon dioxide and occasionally as methane for example methane for example methane for example but then a small amount of that carbon but then a small amount of that carbon but then a small amount of that carbon is then is then is then stored as biomass in that microbial stored as biomass in that microbial stored as biomass in that microbial community community community and eventually that microbial community and eventually that microbial community and eventually that microbial community will die so will die so will die so microbes will die and those microbes microbes will die and those microbes microbes will die and those microbes will then become will then become will then become the microbial necromancer the dead the microbial necromancer the dead the microbial necromancer the dead microbial microbial microbial community and there that's the stuff community and there that's the stuff community and there that's the stuff that typically gets stored that typically gets stored that typically gets stored uh for a long period of time in soils uh for a long period of time in soils uh for a long period of time in soils and there's two and there's two and there's two primary mechanisms that it gets stored primary mechanisms that it gets stored primary mechanisms that it gets stored so it can become physically protected so it can become physically protected so it can become physically protected within aggregate so there's an aggregate within aggregate so there's an aggregate within aggregate so there's an aggregate that physically separates that physically separates that physically separates that dead organic matter from the live that dead organic matter from the live that dead organic matter from the live organic matter that might organic matter that might organic matter that might goblet up and eat it or also it can goblet up and eat it or also it can goblet up and eat it or also it can become chemically protected become chemically protected become chemically protected as well so it can basically become stuck as well so it can basically become stuck as well so it can basically become stuck to a surface to a surface to a surface of a soil through absorption uh of a soil through absorption uh of a soil through absorption uh processes and because it's stuck to that processes and because it's stuck to that processes and because it's stuck to that surface it's not able to then surface it's not able to then surface it's not able to then dissolve into the soil uh solution and dissolve into the soil uh solution and dissolve into the soil uh solution and become become become again ingested by a soil microbe again ingested by a soil microbe again ingested by a soil microbe but over time we do get some desorption but over time we do get some desorption but over time we do get some desorption and we do get these aggregates um and we do get these aggregates um and we do get these aggregates um breaking up breaking up breaking up and so some of that organic carbon will and so some of that organic carbon will and so some of that organic carbon will then become then become then become what we call that free particulate what we call that free particulate what we call that free particulate organic matter organic matter organic matter and so these three kind of key pools uh and so these three kind of key pools uh and so these three kind of key pools uh the physically protected organic matter the physically protected organic matter the physically protected organic matter the chemically protected organic matter the chemically protected organic matter the chemically protected organic matter and that free particular organic matter and that free particular organic matter and that free particular organic matter um form the three kind of primary um um form the three kind of primary um um form the three kind of primary um pools um of organic matter uh in the uh pools um of organic matter uh in the uh pools um of organic matter uh in the uh in the soil environment and then the in the soil environment and then the in the soil environment and then the system basically keeps cycling around so system basically keeps cycling around so system basically keeps cycling around so that that that that that organic matter that we can that that organic matter that we can that that organic matter that we can become free again become free again become free again comes back to the um the soil biological comes back to the um the soil biological comes back to the um the soil biological community and again we can play that uh community and again we can play that uh community and again we can play that uh game again where some of it will be game again where some of it will be game again where some of it will be retained in the biomass um much of it retained in the biomass um much of it retained in the biomass um much of it will be released as carbon dioxide will be released as carbon dioxide will be released as carbon dioxide but off the bit there is retained in the but off the bit there is retained in the but off the bit there is retained in the biomass that can then become biomass that can then become biomass that can then become necromancer and dead uh microbial necromancer and dead uh microbial necromancer and dead uh microbial matter which then can become stabilized matter which then can become stabilized matter which then can become stabilized in the soil in the soil in the soil again and so the stuff that is really again and so the stuff that is really again and so the stuff that is really old the organic matter that's old the organic matter that's old the organic matter that's been in the soil for a very long period been in the soil for a very long period been in the soil for a very long period of time may have gone round this cycle of time may have gone round this cycle of time may have gone round this cycle on multiple occasions and so it's pretty on multiple occasions and so it's pretty on multiple occasions and so it's pretty unrecognizable unrecognizable unrecognizable from the stuff that originally entered from the stuff that originally entered from the stuff that originally entered into the soil into the soil into the soil now i'm going to focus a little bit more now i'm going to focus a little bit more now i'm going to focus a little bit more on these three on these three on these three major groups or major classifications of major groups or major classifications of major groups or major classifications of of soil organic matter um in the soil of soil organic matter um in the soil of soil organic matter um in the soil we've got that free we've got that free we've got that free particular organic matter um the organic particular organic matter um the organic particular organic matter um the organic matter that protected aggregates matter that protected aggregates matter that protected aggregates um and the organic matter that's um and the organic matter that's um and the organic matter that's associated um with minerals associated um with minerals associated um with minerals and just by way of analogy um i and just by way of analogy um i and just by way of analogy um i i would use the analogy of kind of money i would use the analogy of kind of money i would use the analogy of kind of money or finance to classify these things or finance to classify these things or finance to classify these things so your free particular organic matter so your free particular organic matter so your free particular organic matter is a little bit like your is a little bit like your is a little bit like your your current account or the money that your current account or the money that your current account or the money that you might have in your wallet at any you might have in your wallet at any you might have in your wallet at any given time so the given time so the given time so the the turnover of this free particular the turnover of this free particular the turnover of this free particular organic matter organic matter organic matter is pretty rapid so it doesn't last very is pretty rapid so it doesn't last very is pretty rapid so it doesn't last very long in the soil it gets cobbled up by long in the soil it gets cobbled up by long in the soil it gets cobbled up by by microorganisms and other members of by microorganisms and other members of by microorganisms and other members of the soil um food web the soil um food web the soil um food web and as a result um we need to keep and as a result um we need to keep and as a result um we need to keep replenishing this pool replenishing this pool replenishing this pool of organic matter if we want to build up of organic matter if we want to build up of organic matter if we want to build up um um um a store of it in order to to perform a store of it in order to to perform a store of it in order to to perform some of the functions that we want our some of the functions that we want our some of the functions that we want our soils to perform soils to perform soils to perform um the organic matter that's protected um the organic matter that's protected um the organic matter that's protected aggregates i would aggregates i would aggregates i would maybe use this is a bit of an analogy of maybe use this is a bit of an analogy of maybe use this is a bit of an analogy of your savings account so this is your your savings account so this is your your savings account so this is your relatively long term um store of carbon relatively long term um store of carbon relatively long term um store of carbon um in the soil um in the soil um in the soil but it's also quite easy to blow your but it's also quite easy to blow your but it's also quite easy to blow your savings account so savings account so savings account so if you have a a bit of an issue and you if you have a a bit of an issue and you if you have a a bit of an issue and you need to spend a bit of money quickly need to spend a bit of money quickly need to spend a bit of money quickly then it's quite easy to lose then it's quite easy to lose then it's quite easy to lose um all of that carbon a mineral um all of that carbon a mineral um all of that carbon a mineral associated carbon i would use this associated carbon i would use this associated carbon i would use this analogy of like your assets so this is analogy of like your assets so this is analogy of like your assets so this is your long-term your long-term your long-term um store of finance it's actually a lot um store of finance it's actually a lot um store of finance it's actually a lot harder to get rid of this harder to get rid of this harder to get rid of this store of carbon in the soil and that it store of carbon in the soil and that it store of carbon in the soil and that it is the other two is the other two is the other two versions but equally it takes a very versions but equally it takes a very versions but equally it takes a very long time to build up those assets as long time to build up those assets as long time to build up those assets as well well well so it takes a very long time to build up so it takes a very long time to build up so it takes a very long time to build up that mineral associated that mineral associated that mineral associated organic matter in the soil so what organic matter in the soil so what organic matter in the soil so what functions do these functions do these functions do these different pools deliver so different pools deliver so different pools deliver so the free particular organic matter uh the free particular organic matter uh the free particular organic matter uh the functions that this is providing the functions that this is providing the functions that this is providing is things like nutrient mineralization is things like nutrient mineralization is things like nutrient mineralization so this organic matter contains so this organic matter contains so this organic matter contains nutrients as well as just carbon nutrients as well as just carbon nutrients as well as just carbon and so when it's decomposed those and so when it's decomposed those and so when it's decomposed those nutrients are released and made nutrients are released and made nutrients are released and made available to plants available to plants available to plants it also helps with the source to to hold it also helps with the source to to hold it also helps with the source to to hold water as well water as well water as well the organic matter that protected the organic matter that protected the organic matter that protected aggregates this helps the structure of aggregates this helps the structure of aggregates this helps the structure of the soil by generating those stable the soil by generating those stable the soil by generating those stable aggregates and the mineral associated aggregates and the mineral associated aggregates and the mineral associated organic matter organic matter organic matter this is where you get that kind of this is where you get that kind of this is where you get that kind of ability for that soil to retain ability for that soil to retain ability for that soil to retain nutrients and nutrients and nutrients and prevent them from leaching and also it's prevent them from leaching and also it's prevent them from leaching and also it's our long-term carbon store our long-term carbon store our long-term carbon store in soils as well but all three of these in soils as well but all three of these in soils as well but all three of these pools pools pools are vulnerable to greater or lesser are vulnerable to greater or lesser are vulnerable to greater or lesser extent extent extent probably the most vulnerable pool is the probably the most vulnerable pool is the probably the most vulnerable pool is the free particular organic matter free particular organic matter free particular organic matter but it might be available to increases but it might be available to increases but it might be available to increases in temperature because we know that at in temperature because we know that at in temperature because we know that at higher temperatures we tend to get higher temperatures we tend to get higher temperatures we tend to get higher rates of higher rates of higher rates of of decomposition our aggregate of decomposition our aggregate of decomposition our aggregate protected pool is vulnerable to tillage protected pool is vulnerable to tillage protected pool is vulnerable to tillage so if we plow so if we plow so if we plow up our soils and disrupt those up our soils and disrupt those up our soils and disrupt those aggregates then we're making that carbon aggregates then we're making that carbon aggregates then we're making that carbon available available available um to the to the soil microbial um to the to the soil microbial um to the to the soil microbial community that can metabolize it community that can metabolize it community that can metabolize it um the mineral associated organic matter um the mineral associated organic matter um the mineral associated organic matter is much more stable than the other two is much more stable than the other two is much more stable than the other two um pools but it might be vulnerable for um pools but it might be vulnerable for um pools but it might be vulnerable for example to things like shifts in ph example to things like shifts in ph example to things like shifts in ph so if the ph of the soil changes then so if the ph of the soil changes then so if the ph of the soil changes then that means that the that means that the that means that the the soil organic matter can become the soil organic matter can become the soil organic matter can become dissolved from the surface so for dissolved from the surface so for dissolved from the surface so for example example example land use changes that require large land use changes that require large land use changes that require large shifts in ph might result in release of shifts in ph might result in release of shifts in ph might result in release of some of that some of that some of that stable mineral associated organic matter but one of the key steps that i want to but one of the key steps that i want to but one of the key steps that i want to talk about in the talk about in the talk about in the in the process by which organic matter in the process by which organic matter in the process by which organic matter becomes becomes becomes um soil organic matter is what happens um soil organic matter is what happens um soil organic matter is what happens to this initial resource to this initial resource to this initial resource as it enters into this um soil microbial as it enters into this um soil microbial as it enters into this um soil microbial community community community and ultimately um what we can do is we and ultimately um what we can do is we and ultimately um what we can do is we want to be able to want to be able to want to be able to increase the amount of that carbon that increase the amount of that carbon that increase the amount of that carbon that comes into that microbial community comes into that microbial community comes into that microbial community and decrease the amount that leaves the and decrease the amount that leaves the and decrease the amount that leaves the system system system as carbon dioxide because that means we as carbon dioxide because that means we as carbon dioxide because that means we get more dead get more dead get more dead microbes that then can become that microbes that then can become that microbes that then can become that microbial necromancer microbial necromancer microbial necromancer which ultimately comes our long-term which ultimately comes our long-term which ultimately comes our long-term carbon store carbon store carbon store and the concept of this um this process and the concept of this um this process and the concept of this um this process whereby whereby whereby microbes might either use that carbon to microbes might either use that carbon to microbes might either use that carbon to make their microbial biomass or make their microbial biomass or make their microbial biomass or what we refer to as anabolism um what we refer to as anabolism um what we refer to as anabolism um against what um against um using that against what um against um using that against what um against um using that carbon to respire and use for energy and carbon to respire and use for energy and carbon to respire and use for energy and respiring as carbon dioxide which is respiring as carbon dioxide which is respiring as carbon dioxide which is what we what we what we refer to as catabolism so this is this refer to as catabolism so this is this refer to as catabolism so this is this can be kind of embodied within this idea can be kind of embodied within this idea can be kind of embodied within this idea of carbon use of carbon use of carbon use efficiency so this is the amount of efficiency so this is the amount of efficiency so this is the amount of carbon that the microbes use carbon that the microbes use carbon that the microbes use to build their biomass divided by the to build their biomass divided by the to build their biomass divided by the total amount that's being consumed so total amount that's being consumed so total amount that's being consumed so the the the total amount that's entering into the total amount that's entering into the total amount that's entering into the soil so a saw with a high carbonace soil so a saw with a high carbonace soil so a saw with a high carbonace efficiency efficiency efficiency means that we've got a larger sore means that we've got a larger sore means that we've got a larger sore microbial biomass microbial biomass microbial biomass and ultimately we hope that it becomes a and ultimately we hope that it becomes a and ultimately we hope that it becomes a high soil microbial necromass high soil microbial necromass high soil microbial necromass which can become our long-term stable which can become our long-term stable which can become our long-term stable carbon storm carbon storm carbon storm so ultimately what i'll talk about today so ultimately what i'll talk about today so ultimately what i'll talk about today is ways in which we can increase is ways in which we can increase is ways in which we can increase soil carbon use efficiency and it's soil carbon use efficiency and it's soil carbon use efficiency and it's worth mentioning that compared to a few worth mentioning that compared to a few worth mentioning that compared to a few other different um other different um other different um environments so marine estrogen uh environments so marine estrogen uh environments so marine estrogen uh coastal uh coastal uh coastal uh environments that the soil carbon use environments that the soil carbon use environments that the soil carbon use efficiency efficiency efficiency um is much higher than we see and we um is much higher than we see and we um is much higher than we see and we observe in other observe in other observe in other types of environments but at the same types of environments but at the same types of environments but at the same time the range time the range time the range of carbonyl sufficiencies that our saw of carbonyl sufficiencies that our saw of carbonyl sufficiencies that our saw microbial communities microbial communities microbial communities can exhibit is also quite broad um as can exhibit is also quite broad um as can exhibit is also quite broad um as well well well so we might have some sores that are so we might have some sores that are so we might have some sores that are operating at the very low end operating at the very low end operating at the very low end of this range where most of that carbon of this range where most of that carbon of this range where most of that carbon is being released as co2 is being released as co2 is being released as co2 and we may have other soils that are and we may have other soils that are and we may have other soils that are operating with a very high carbon use operating with a very high carbon use operating with a very high carbon use efficiency efficiency efficiency where most of that carbon is going into where most of that carbon is going into where most of that carbon is going into the microbial biomass the microbial biomass the microbial biomass and some of the key things that can and some of the key things that can and some of the key things that can influence influence influence the extent to which we have a high the extent to which we have a high the extent to which we have a high carbon use efficiency carbon use efficiency carbon use efficiency is the is the investment of those is the is the investment of those is the is the investment of those microbes need to make microbes need to make microbes need to make in acquiring their resources so um carb the amount the the type of so um carb the amount the the type of so um carb the amount the the type of carbon amendment that we add into the carbon amendment that we add into the carbon amendment that we add into the soil the quality of that substrate soil the quality of that substrate soil the quality of that substrate and the nutrients that are available um and the nutrients that are available um and the nutrients that are available um dictate the carbon use efficiency dictate the carbon use efficiency dictate the carbon use efficiency so larger more recalcitrant mod uh so larger more recalcitrant mod uh so larger more recalcitrant mod uh molecules with a high carbon nitrogen molecules with a high carbon nitrogen molecules with a high carbon nitrogen ratio ratio ratio they typically have a low carbon use they typically have a low carbon use they typically have a low carbon use efficiency efficiency efficiency and these kind of remind me of the and these kind of remind me of the and these kind of remind me of the squirrel from the ice age um squirrel from the ice age um squirrel from the ice age um movies so if you've not seen the movie movies so if you've not seen the movie movies so if you've not seen the movie the squirrel kind of pops up every 10 or the squirrel kind of pops up every 10 or the squirrel kind of pops up every 10 or 15 minutes and he spends lots of energy 15 minutes and he spends lots of energy 15 minutes and he spends lots of energy chasing around this chasing around this chasing around this uh acorn and by the end of the the movie uh acorn and by the end of the the movie uh acorn and by the end of the the movie um you kind of wonder whether the um you kind of wonder whether the um you kind of wonder whether the squirrel spent more of its energy squirrel spent more of its energy squirrel spent more of its energy trying to get this acorn than it would trying to get this acorn than it would trying to get this acorn than it would actually gain from actually gain from actually gain from from actually eating it and by way of from actually eating it and by way of from actually eating it and by way of analogy this might um analogy this might um analogy this might um represent sort of straw or so something represent sort of straw or so something represent sort of straw or so something with a high with a high with a high lignan content not very much nitrogen it lignan content not very much nitrogen it lignan content not very much nitrogen it would be very difficult for the would be very difficult for the would be very difficult for the sore microorganisms to break down sore microorganisms to break down sore microorganisms to break down on the flip side we could have low on the flip side we could have low on the flip side we could have low molecular weight compounds so simple molecular weight compounds so simple molecular weight compounds so simple sugars that have perhaps a high sugars that have perhaps a high sugars that have perhaps a high c to n ratio and a much higher carbon c to n ratio and a much higher carbon c to n ratio and a much higher carbon use use use efficiency and so again using an analogy efficiency and so again using an analogy efficiency and so again using an analogy this this this might be simpler to similar to augustus might be simpler to similar to augustus might be simpler to similar to augustus gloop from the gloop from the gloop from the charlie in the chocolate factory uh charlie in the chocolate factory uh charlie in the chocolate factory uh movie so augustus gloops a big fan of movie so augustus gloops a big fan of movie so augustus gloops a big fan of chocolates and sweets and things chocolates and sweets and things chocolates and sweets and things and of course he's very fat as well as a and of course he's very fat as well as a and of course he's very fat as well as a result so this is kind of what we want result so this is kind of what we want result so this is kind of what we want our our our microbial communities to be we want them microbial communities to be we want them microbial communities to be we want them to be fat we want them to become larger to be fat we want them to become larger to be fat we want them to become larger we want to use that carbon we want to use that carbon we want to use that carbon uh to build um biomass and these um uh to build um biomass and these um uh to build um biomass and these um simple sugars might be simple sugars might be simple sugars might be com coming from plants root exudates for com coming from plants root exudates for com coming from plants root exudates for example these sugars that the example these sugars that the example these sugars that the plant root is pumping into the um into plant root is pumping into the um into plant root is pumping into the um into the soil the soil the soil uh of course the plant root hexays uh of course the plant root hexays uh of course the plant root hexays typically don't contain much nitrogen so typically don't contain much nitrogen so typically don't contain much nitrogen so so nitrogen is also required by that so nitrogen is also required by that so nitrogen is also required by that community um in order to build soil community um in order to build soil community um in order to build soil organic matter organic matter organic matter so so what we add into the saw can have so so what we add into the saw can have so so what we add into the saw can have an influence in the carbon use an influence in the carbon use an influence in the carbon use efficiency efficiency efficiency i also want to share this concept here i also want to share this concept here i also want to share this concept here um which is um um which is um um which is um uh published by cynthia gallembak and uh published by cynthia gallembak and uh published by cynthia gallembak and co-authors co-authors co-authors um two years ago now it's a really neat um two years ago now it's a really neat um two years ago now it's a really neat paper basically explains paper basically explains paper basically explains um that each individual microbial um that each individual microbial um that each individual microbial community will have its own community will have its own community will have its own window of carbon use efficiency that it window of carbon use efficiency that it window of carbon use efficiency that it operates within operates within operates within and so you can change the environmental and so you can change the environmental and so you can change the environmental conditions in order to change the carbon conditions in order to change the carbon conditions in order to change the carbon use efficiency of the pre-existing use efficiency of the pre-existing use efficiency of the pre-existing microbial community but at the same time microbial community but at the same time microbial community but at the same time you can also you can also you can also shift the population of the microbial shift the population of the microbial shift the population of the microbial community that you have community that you have community that you have in your soil to one that might operate in your soil to one that might operate in your soil to one that might operate at a higher carbon use efficiency at a higher carbon use efficiency at a higher carbon use efficiency and what was proposed in this paper i and what was proposed in this paper i and what was proposed in this paper i should say the data that's been should say the data that's been should say the data that's been presented on the screen here presented on the screen here presented on the screen here is that you might be able to on one side is that you might be able to on one side is that you might be able to on one side you could have sort of a high you could have sort of a high you could have sort of a high c to n ratio material or a low c to n c to n ratio material or a low c to n c to n ratio material or a low c to n ratio ratio ratio material but there are benefits to be material but there are benefits to be material but there are benefits to be gamed by mixing gamed by mixing gamed by mixing high and low c to n ratio materials in high and low c to n ratio materials in high and low c to n ratio materials in order to optimize order to optimize order to optimize the carbon use efficiency and ultimately the carbon use efficiency and ultimately the carbon use efficiency and ultimately result in more carbon result in more carbon result in more carbon going into the microbial biomass and a going into the microbial biomass and a going into the microbial biomass and a little bit less little bit less little bit less leaving the system as carbon dioxide leaving the system as carbon dioxide leaving the system as carbon dioxide we tried this um in a field experiment we tried this um in a field experiment we tried this um in a field experiment so we mixed some so we mixed some so we mixed some some low c to n ratio compost and some low c to n ratio compost and some low c to n ratio compost and vegetable waste vegetable waste vegetable waste compost with some high c to n ratio compost with some high c to n ratio compost with some high c to n ratio materials like wood chips um or straws materials like wood chips um or straws materials like wood chips um or straws and we did an experiment where we looked and we did an experiment where we looked and we did an experiment where we looked at the um the mixture at the um the mixture at the um the mixture um versus the sum of the parts and then um versus the sum of the parts and then um versus the sum of the parts and then we plotted we we plotted we we plotted we measured a whole bunch of different measured a whole bunch of different measured a whole bunch of different things and plotted them on this graph things and plotted them on this graph things and plotted them on this graph and if they appear on the right hand and if they appear on the right hand and if they appear on the right hand side side side of the graph this means that the mixture of the graph this means that the mixture of the graph this means that the mixture is greater than the sum of the parts is greater than the sum of the parts is greater than the sum of the parts if they appear on the left hand side of if they appear on the left hand side of if they appear on the left hand side of this graph then the mixture is less than this graph then the mixture is less than this graph then the mixture is less than the sum of the parts the sum of the parts the sum of the parts and one of the things we measured was and one of the things we measured was and one of the things we measured was sole organic matter and we found that sole organic matter and we found that sole organic matter and we found that the soil organic matter that we built in the soil organic matter that we built in the soil organic matter that we built in that soil that soil that soil was greater that was greater than the was greater that was greater than the was greater that was greater than the sum of the parts when we applied that sum of the parts when we applied that sum of the parts when we applied that high high high and low c to n ratio mixture together so this cost us thinking a bit more so this cost us thinking a bit more so this cost us thinking a bit more about um diversity and whether it about um diversity and whether it about um diversity and whether it matters whether we matters whether we matters whether we add a more diverse mixture of substrates add a more diverse mixture of substrates add a more diverse mixture of substrates um into our soils i mean here we did a um into our soils i mean here we did a um into our soils i mean here we did a much more controlled experiment much more controlled experiment much more controlled experiment um in the laboratory so it was a very um in the laboratory so it was a very um in the laboratory so it was a very small pot scale experiment small pot scale experiment small pot scale experiment and to every treatment we added the same and to every treatment we added the same and to every treatment we added the same amount of carbon amount of carbon amount of carbon and we either added that carbon uh in and we either added that carbon uh in and we either added that carbon uh in the form of the residues of a single the form of the residues of a single the form of the residues of a single crop or we added that carbon in the crop or we added that carbon in the crop or we added that carbon in the residues of a mixture of four residues of a mixture of four residues of a mixture of four uh different um crops and the crops we uh different um crops and the crops we uh different um crops and the crops we used here were typical cover crops used here were typical cover crops used here were typical cover crops that farmers might grow in between two that farmers might grow in between two that farmers might grow in between two uh cash crops in a cereal rotation uh cash crops in a cereal rotation uh cash crops in a cereal rotation so we have sunflower we have radish we so we have sunflower we have radish we so we have sunflower we have radish we have clover have clover have clover and we have buckwheat and so we then and we have buckwheat and so we then and we have buckwheat and so we then compared compared compared um similar to the last experiment we um similar to the last experiment we um similar to the last experiment we compared compared compared um what happens when you have add the um what happens when you have add the um what happens when you have add the mixture mixture mixture versus the the average of the sum of the versus the the average of the sum of the versus the the average of the sum of the parts parts parts and what we were looking at was the soil and what we were looking at was the soil and what we were looking at was the soil microbial biomass which we measured microbial biomass which we measured microbial biomass which we measured using a technique uh referred to as plfa using a technique uh referred to as plfa using a technique uh referred to as plfa or phospholipid fatty acid or phospholipid fatty acid or phospholipid fatty acid analysis and here we can see our analysis and here we can see our analysis and here we can see our orange or pink bar is higher than our orange or pink bar is higher than our orange or pink bar is higher than our our turquoise bar and what this means is our turquoise bar and what this means is our turquoise bar and what this means is that when we mix that when we mix that when we mix um those four residues together we get um those four residues together we get um those four residues together we get more of that plant-derived carbon going more of that plant-derived carbon going more of that plant-derived carbon going into the microbial biomass into the microbial biomass into the microbial biomass we also looked at the extent to which we also looked at the extent to which we also looked at the extent to which adding these plant residues adding these plant residues adding these plant residues primed the decomposition of the soil primed the decomposition of the soil primed the decomposition of the soil organic matter that was already organic matter that was already organic matter that was already um in the soil and we saw no difference um in the soil and we saw no difference um in the soil and we saw no difference whereas all these treatments did prime whereas all these treatments did prime whereas all these treatments did prime soil organic matter soil organic matter soil organic matter we didn't see any difference between the we didn't see any difference between the we didn't see any difference between the the mixture and the sum of the parts we the mixture and the sum of the parts we the mixture and the sum of the parts we also looked at which also looked at which also looked at which microbial communities were responsible microbial communities were responsible microbial communities were responsible for this difference that we observed for this difference that we observed for this difference that we observed here here here and we saw that the gram positive and we saw that the gram positive and we saw that the gram positive bacteria and our fungi communities bacteria and our fungi communities bacteria and our fungi communities uh were primarily responsible for this uh were primarily responsible for this uh were primarily responsible for this difference and this is consistent with difference and this is consistent with difference and this is consistent with the idea that our the idea that our the idea that our gram-positive microbes and our fungi gram-positive microbes and our fungi gram-positive microbes and our fungi fungal communities fungal communities fungal communities um a little bit they tend to have a um a little bit they tend to have a um a little bit they tend to have a higher carbon use higher carbon use higher carbon use efficiency anyway so we think to some efficiency anyway so we think to some efficiency anyway so we think to some extent there are some benefits to be extent there are some benefits to be extent there are some benefits to be obtained obtained obtained by mixing plant residues as they go into by mixing plant residues as they go into by mixing plant residues as they go into the soil the soil the soil so just to summarize on on carbon new so just to summarize on on carbon new so just to summarize on on carbon new sufficiency so there's kind of three sufficiency so there's kind of three sufficiency so there's kind of three primary primary primary techniques that i'm introducing that we techniques that i'm introducing that we techniques that i'm introducing that we might be able to use to increase the might be able to use to increase the might be able to use to increase the carbonyl sufficiency carbonyl sufficiency carbonyl sufficiency of our amendments um we can either apply of our amendments um we can either apply of our amendments um we can either apply sort of labar sort of labar sort of labar low c-twin ratio amendments so those low c-twin ratio amendments so those low c-twin ratio amendments so those simple sugars that feed things like simple sugars that feed things like simple sugars that feed things like augustus group augustus group augustus group or we can mix some of our high and low c or we can mix some of our high and low c or we can mix some of our high and low c to m ratio to m ratio to m ratio amendments accepting the fact that yeah amendments accepting the fact that yeah amendments accepting the fact that yeah we have these amendments like straw we have these amendments like straw we have these amendments like straw perhaps we can still use them perhaps we can still use them perhaps we can still use them and also there seems to be some benefits and also there seems to be some benefits and also there seems to be some benefits by growing plants in poly cultures so by growing plants in poly cultures so by growing plants in poly cultures so we've got a mixture of diverse we've got a mixture of diverse we've got a mixture of diverse substrates substrates substrates um entering into our soil um entering into our soil um entering into our soil so just to um just to end by thinking a so just to um just to end by thinking a so just to um just to end by thinking a little bit more about the future and to little bit more about the future and to little bit more about the future and to sort of sort of sort of share some ideas i'll be very happy for share some ideas i'll be very happy for share some ideas i'll be very happy for people to use the chat box to let them people to use the chat box to let them people to use the chat box to let them know what know what know what they think of these sort of ideas but they think of these sort of ideas but they think of these sort of ideas but i'm starting to think about i'm starting to think about i'm starting to think about so what are these microbial communities so what are these microbial communities so what are these microbial communities that have got a high that have got a high that have got a high carbon use efficiency look like well we carbon use efficiency look like well we carbon use efficiency look like well we think they probably have a higher fungal think they probably have a higher fungal think they probably have a higher fungal to bacterial ratio to bacterial ratio to bacterial ratio usually they tend to have more sort of usually they tend to have more sort of usually they tend to have more sort of what we call k strategists so these are what we call k strategists so these are what we call k strategists so these are um um um a little bit like using the analogy of a little bit like using the analogy of a little bit like using the analogy of the hair and the tortoise so the hair and the tortoise so the hair and the tortoise so that the tortoise is more like a k that the tortoise is more like a k that the tortoise is more like a k strategist than an r strategist strategist than an r strategist strategist than an r strategist would be more like the hair so they're would be more like the hair so they're would be more like the hair so they're slightly slower um slightly slower um slightly slower um growing um and just broadly speaking growing um and just broadly speaking growing um and just broadly speaking we're looking for species that invest we're looking for species that invest we're looking for species that invest more of their energy in dispersal or more of their energy in dispersal or more of their energy in dispersal or facilitation cooperation facilitation cooperation facilitation cooperation a little bit less in competition or a little bit less in competition or a little bit less in competition or tolerating stress tolerating stress tolerating stress or acquiring their resources so or acquiring their resources so or acquiring their resources so we could think about things like how we we could think about things like how we we could think about things like how we promote biofilm formation in source do promote biofilm formation in source do promote biofilm formation in source do we provide sort of we provide sort of we provide sort of porous materials perhaps biochar porous materials perhaps biochar porous materials perhaps biochar zeolites that kind of thing zeolites that kind of thing zeolites that kind of thing surfaces which might help the creation surfaces which might help the creation surfaces which might help the creation of biofilms because we know that of biofilms because we know that of biofilms because we know that biofilms biofilms biofilms have a slightly higher carbonyl have a slightly higher carbonyl have a slightly higher carbonyl sufficiency um sufficiency um sufficiency um do we need to select or breed plant do we need to select or breed plant do we need to select or breed plant communities that communities that communities that might produce these exudates with a high might produce these exudates with a high might produce these exudates with a high carbon new sufficiency carbon new sufficiency carbon new sufficiency um or are there things that we could um or are there things that we could um or are there things that we could sort of do to the soil amendments before sort of do to the soil amendments before sort of do to the soil amendments before we add them to the soil we add them to the soil we add them to the soil so for example might we ferment them or so for example might we ferment them or so for example might we ferment them or do some other process in which we do some other process in which we do some other process in which we convert that carbon into a form that convert that carbon into a form that convert that carbon into a form that might then have a might then have a might then have a higher carbon use efficiency and i guess higher carbon use efficiency and i guess higher carbon use efficiency and i guess just to shout out that if you're just to shout out that if you're just to shout out that if you're if you're looking to sort of things a if you're looking to sort of things a if you're looking to sort of things a bit of further reading on this as well bit of further reading on this as well bit of further reading on this as well this is a fantastic paper this is a fantastic paper this is a fantastic paper um published almost a a year ago now by um published almost a a year ago now by um published almost a a year ago now by um some authors in switzerland um which um some authors in switzerland um which um some authors in switzerland um which kind of talks through this kind of talks through this kind of talks through this this idea about um how we can use small this idea about um how we can use small this idea about um how we can use small microbial communities and there's a few microbial communities and there's a few microbial communities and there's a few ideas ideas ideas including some on this slide that have including some on this slide that have including some on this slide that have come from this paper come from this paper come from this paper as well so i'll just end with my as well so i'll just end with my as well so i'll just end with my take-home messages so again that there's take-home messages so again that there's take-home messages so again that there's those three different key types of those three different key types of those three different key types of organic matter in the soil they're organic matter in the soil they're organic matter in the soil they're particulate bound particulate bound particulate bound aggregate bound and mineral associated aggregate bound and mineral associated aggregate bound and mineral associated there are strategies that we can adopt there are strategies that we can adopt there are strategies that we can adopt to increase the carbon use efficiency to increase the carbon use efficiency to increase the carbon use efficiency um of the soil organic matter that we um of the soil organic matter that we um of the soil organic matter that we add into our soil add into our soil add into our soil and of course there's a lot more um we and of course there's a lot more um we and of course there's a lot more um we can learn and there's a lot more can learn and there's a lot more can learn and there's a lot more research that needs to be research that needs to be research that needs to be done in the future in order to advance done in the future in order to advance done in the future in order to advance our understanding our understanding our understanding and so with that i'll just share my um and so with that i'll just share my um and so with that i'll just share my um acknowledgements um particularly acknowledgements um particularly acknowledgements um particularly uh marika strauck shinshu and daddy uh marika strauck shinshu and daddy uh marika strauck shinshu and daddy anthony anthony anthony but also a whole bunch of funders and but also a whole bunch of funders and but also a whole bunch of funders and organizations um that we organizations um that we organizations um that we work with uh of course i will thank you work with uh of course i will thank you work with uh of course i will thank you for listening for listening for listening and now i'll hand over uh to bruce who i and now i'll hand over uh to bruce who i and now i'll hand over uh to bruce who i think will uh will introduce julian think will uh will introduce julian think will uh will introduce julian for his presentation yeah for his presentation yeah for his presentation yeah thank you very much tom that was thank you very much tom that was thank you very much tom that was excellent um and just a reminder we will excellent um and just a reminder we will excellent um and just a reminder we will be taking um be taking um be taking um questions for both speakers at the end questions for both speakers at the end questions for both speakers at the end of the the session of the the session of the the session so our next speaker is julian gold so our next speaker is julian gold so our next speaker is julian gold julian is a farmer's son and graduated julian is a farmer's son and graduated julian is a farmer's son and graduated from harpercol adams college with from harpercol adams college with from harpercol adams college with hnd in agriculture after short spell hnd in agriculture after short spell hnd in agriculture after short spell on the family farm we spent the last 33 on the family farm we spent the last 33 on the family farm we spent the last 33 years managing farms and estates years managing farms and estates years managing farms and estates initially with farm management companies initially with farm management companies initially with farm management companies involving short periods on different involving short periods on different involving short periods on different farms farms farms and lately a longer tenure on a and lately a longer tenure on a and lately a longer tenure on a privately owned estate privately owned estate privately owned estate julian is a facts and basis trained julian is a facts and basis trained julian is a facts and basis trained agronomist and has a commitment to agronomist and has a commitment to agronomist and has a commitment to continuing to improve continuing to improve continuing to improve cropping performance but in a cropping performance but in a cropping performance but in a sustainable manner sustainable manner sustainable manner in 2012 he implemented a 10 meter in 2012 he implemented a 10 meter in 2012 he implemented a 10 meter controlled traffic system across the controlled traffic system across the controlled traffic system across the estate estate estate which has given a leap forward in soil which has given a leap forward in soil which has given a leap forward in soil health management health management health management he carries out regular field trials he carries out regular field trials he carries out regular field trials in-house and for external organizations in-house and for external organizations in-house and for external organizations and he is presently in year three of a and he is presently in year three of a and he is presently in year three of a five-year assist trial five-year assist trial five-year assist trial which is a major government-funded trial which is a major government-funded trial which is a major government-funded trial to investigate integrated management to investigate integrated management to investigate integrated management systems systems systems as a way of delivering sustainable as a way of delivering sustainable as a way of delivering sustainable intensification intensification intensification he was one of the first tranche of ahdb he was one of the first tranche of ahdb he was one of the first tranche of ahdb to monitor farms from 2014 to to monitor farms from 2014 to to monitor farms from 2014 to for the pharma to farmer knowledge for the pharma to farmer knowledge for the pharma to farmer knowledge exchange program exchange program exchange program julian is on the sea soil committee and julian is on the sea soil committee and julian is on the sea soil committee and is keen to help improve the flow of is keen to help improve the flow of is keen to help improve the flow of knowledge between farmers knowledge between farmers knowledge between farmers and the scientific community and he was and the scientific community and he was and the scientific community and he was awarded the soil farmer of the year awarded the soil farmer of the year awarded the soil farmer of the year in 2019 so overshoot julian in 2019 so overshoot julian in 2019 so overshoot julian thanks bruce just turn to show my screen right show my screen right show my screen right i cannot see or i cannot see or i cannot see or um seeing it on the screen other than my um seeing it on the screen other than my um seeing it on the screen other than my presentation so hopefully everybody can presentation so hopefully everybody can presentation so hopefully everybody can hear me hear me hear me could somebody just confirm yeah we can could somebody just confirm yeah we can could somebody just confirm yeah we can hear you hear you hear you julian okay thank you um right julian okay thank you um right julian okay thank you um right yes um building on tom's talk i really yes um building on tom's talk i really yes um building on tom's talk i really just want to whiz through just want to whiz through just want to whiz through and show you what this building and and show you what this building and and show you what this building and maintaining soil organic matter looks maintaining soil organic matter looks maintaining soil organic matter looks like on farm like on farm like on farm in practice and some of the problems now in practice and some of the problems now in practice and some of the problems now this is this is this is a very um site specific a very um site specific a very um site specific talk because hendrick estate we haven't talk because hendrick estate we haven't talk because hendrick estate we haven't got any organic amendments really going got any organic amendments really going got any organic amendments really going into the system into the system into the system we're predominantly a cropping farm with we're predominantly a cropping farm with we're predominantly a cropping farm with a few sheep on permanent pasture and a few sheep on permanent pasture and a few sheep on permanent pasture and cover crops cover crops cover crops um so we're trying to build organic um so we're trying to build organic um so we're trying to build organic matter without rotational lays matter without rotational lays matter without rotational lays without a lot of organic amendments like without a lot of organic amendments like without a lot of organic amendments like fym and compost fym and compost fym and compost um so that makes it a little bit harder um so that makes it a little bit harder um so that makes it a little bit harder for us but we are for us but we are for us but we are achieving quite good results hopefully achieving quite good results hopefully achieving quite good results hopefully you'll see um you'll see um you'll see um just thinking about as a farmer just just thinking about as a farmer just just thinking about as a farmer just thinking about soil organic matter thinking about soil organic matter thinking about soil organic matter um that's obviously the big dilemma soil um that's obviously the big dilemma soil um that's obviously the big dilemma soil organic matter do you hoard it or use it organic matter do you hoard it or use it organic matter do you hoard it or use it well as a farmer i want to build soil well as a farmer i want to build soil well as a farmer i want to build soil organic matter in my soil for organic matter in my soil for organic matter in my soil for long term soil health and sustainability long term soil health and sustainability long term soil health and sustainability but i also want organic matter to be but i also want organic matter to be but i also want organic matter to be cycling in the system i want cycling in the system i want cycling in the system i want i don't want to be relying on all my i don't want to be relying on all my i don't want to be relying on all my nutrition from artificial fertilizer nutrition from artificial fertilizer nutrition from artificial fertilizer sources i want to be mineralizing sources i want to be mineralizing sources i want to be mineralizing organic matter and providing nutrients organic matter and providing nutrients organic matter and providing nutrients for crops for crops for crops um to obviously help with our economic um to obviously help with our economic um to obviously help with our economic yield of crops yield of crops yield of crops so it's trying to achieve this happy so it's trying to achieve this happy so it's trying to achieve this happy medium of building soil organic matter medium of building soil organic matter medium of building soil organic matter but also using soil organic matter but also using soil organic matter but also using soil organic matter um and you'll see how we try to do that um and you'll see how we try to do that um and you'll see how we try to do that as i go through the talk as i go through the talk as i go through the talk um this is a slide that i will um this is a slide that i will um this is a slide that i will um go back to a few times um go back to a few times um go back to a few times basically this this summarizes on basically this this summarizes on basically this this summarizes on hendrick estate how hendrick estate how hendrick estate how we're trying to build healthy soil in we're trying to build healthy soil in we're trying to build healthy soil in our system and obviously our system and obviously our system and obviously healthy soil you're talking good healthy soil you're talking good healthy soil you're talking good structure on the left hand side and structure on the left hand side and structure on the left hand side and you're talking about building you're talking about building you're talking about building soil organic matter on the right hand soil organic matter on the right hand soil organic matter on the right hand side and side and side and i've got my little techniques in the i've got my little techniques in the i've got my little techniques in the blue and red boxes blue and red boxes blue and red boxes that i'm going to talk about through the that i'm going to talk about through the that i'm going to talk about through the talk as to how we're achieving this talk as to how we're achieving this talk as to how we're achieving this um also in the middle you'll see the um also in the middle you'll see the um also in the middle you'll see the sort of little one in brackets trying to sort of little one in brackets trying to sort of little one in brackets trying to increase the fungal bacterial ratio in increase the fungal bacterial ratio in increase the fungal bacterial ratio in the soil the soil the soil um i'm very aware that in um i'm very aware that in um i'm very aware that in intensively farmed systems such as ours intensively farmed systems such as ours intensively farmed systems such as ours it's our dominant ratio is bacterial to it's our dominant ratio is bacterial to it's our dominant ratio is bacterial to fungal is higher fungal is higher fungal is higher higher bacterial and fungal but higher bacterial and fungal but higher bacterial and fungal but obviously we've got lots of advantages obviously we've got lots of advantages obviously we've got lots of advantages with increasing fungal numbers you've with increasing fungal numbers you've with increasing fungal numbers you've got got got things like mycorrhizal associations things like mycorrhizal associations things like mycorrhizal associations that are that are that are improving crop yields um you've got improving crop yields um you've got improving crop yields um you've got things like things like things like better carbon use efficiency as tom better carbon use efficiency as tom better carbon use efficiency as tom pointed out with fungi rather than pointed out with fungi rather than pointed out with fungi rather than bacteria bacteria bacteria and you've got just the fungal fungi's and you've got just the fungal fungi's and you've got just the fungal fungi's ability to improve soil aggregation and ability to improve soil aggregation and ability to improve soil aggregation and carbon stability in the soil so i've got carbon stability in the soil so i've got carbon stability in the soil so i've got that one in the middle in brackets that one in the middle in brackets that one in the middle in brackets it's one that i've constantly got in the it's one that i've constantly got in the it's one that i've constantly got in the back of my mind i think in practice it's back of my mind i think in practice it's back of my mind i think in practice it's very difficult very difficult very difficult to influence easily in a commercial to influence easily in a commercial to influence easily in a commercial farming situation farming situation farming situation but just going through all the others but just going through all the others but just going through all the others one by one starting with the one by one starting with the one by one starting with the photosynthesis on the photosynthesis on the photosynthesis on the right hand side um right hand side um right hand side um yeah i really see myself not as a farmer yeah i really see myself not as a farmer yeah i really see myself not as a farmer i see myself as a photosynthesis i see myself as a photosynthesis i see myself as a photosynthesis facilitator facilitator facilitator um and a bit like a method actually i um and a bit like a method actually i um and a bit like a method actually i like to sort of get myself in like to sort of get myself in like to sort of get myself in role for what i'm trying to achieve on role for what i'm trying to achieve on role for what i'm trying to achieve on the farm and i like to sort of try and the farm and i like to sort of try and the farm and i like to sort of try and imagine imagine imagine this sort of fantasy of this intelligent this sort of fantasy of this intelligent this sort of fantasy of this intelligent soil ecosystem and soil ecosystem and soil ecosystem and it's sort of employing crops to grow in it's sort of employing crops to grow in it's sort of employing crops to grow in it to feed the ecosystem with carbon it to feed the ecosystem with carbon it to feed the ecosystem with carbon and it's employing me to tend the crops and it's employing me to tend the crops and it's employing me to tend the crops and for my and for my and for my um work they're sort of giving me the um work they're sort of giving me the um work they're sort of giving me the grains grains grains as a reward for tending the crops um as a reward for tending the crops um as a reward for tending the crops um and that's my sort of fairly naive way and that's my sort of fairly naive way and that's my sort of fairly naive way of just sort of thinking about of just sort of thinking about of just sort of thinking about how i'm managing my farm and my cropping how i'm managing my farm and my cropping how i'm managing my farm and my cropping system looked at another way system looked at another way system looked at another way um and using some of tom's analogies um and using some of tom's analogies um and using some of tom's analogies with the squirrel and augustus gloop with the squirrel and augustus gloop with the squirrel and augustus gloop um you've got the crops growing in the um you've got the crops growing in the um you've got the crops growing in the soil system there with me concentrating soil system there with me concentrating soil system there with me concentrating on feeding the soil system and i think on feeding the soil system and i think on feeding the soil system and i think that that that and taking the grains as wages and i and taking the grains as wages and i and taking the grains as wages and i think that it's interesting that think that it's interesting that think that it's interesting that the actual end result by me the actual end result by me the actual end result by me concentrating on concentrating on concentrating on working for the soil system rather than working for the soil system rather than working for the soil system rather than working for working for working for a big crop yield it gives me a big a big crop yield it gives me a big a big crop yield it gives me a big corporate yield corporate yield corporate yield as a side um as a sort of result of as a side um as a sort of result of as a side um as a sort of result of getting a healthy soil and working on getting a healthy soil and working on getting a healthy soil and working on looking after the soil ecosystem looking after the soil ecosystem looking after the soil ecosystem i naturally get big yields of grains and i naturally get big yields of grains and i naturally get big yields of grains and so so so it's just a sort of different emphasis it's just a sort of different emphasis it's just a sort of different emphasis but it gives you a better but it gives you a better but it gives you a better the same or better end result as the same or better end result as the same or better end result as concentrating on maximizing your crop concentrating on maximizing your crop concentrating on maximizing your crop yield yield yield um and then you've got everything going um and then you've got everything going um and then you've got everything going back into the soil system the carbon in back into the soil system the carbon in back into the soil system the carbon in the straw and you'll see through the the straw and you'll see through the the straw and you'll see through the talk that this is a big talk that this is a big talk that this is a big issue that's caused us a lot of problems issue that's caused us a lot of problems issue that's caused us a lot of problems over the years because i've sort of had over the years because i've sort of had over the years because i've sort of had this fixation on this this fixation on this this fixation on this lower carbon use efficiency straw and lower carbon use efficiency straw and lower carbon use efficiency straw and getting that back into the soil system getting that back into the soil system getting that back into the soil system whereas i'm over the years i think i've whereas i'm over the years i think i've whereas i'm over the years i think i've probably been probably been probably been detrimental to some of the better carbon detrimental to some of the better carbon detrimental to some of the better carbon use efficiency things like root exudates use efficiency things like root exudates use efficiency things like root exudates um going into the system but we'll see um going into the system but we'll see um going into the system but we'll see that as we go through that as we go through that as we go through um so thinking about photosynthesis um so thinking about photosynthesis um so thinking about photosynthesis obviously one of the main things with obviously one of the main things with obviously one of the main things with photosynthesis we need to max out photosynthesis we need to max out photosynthesis we need to max out our utilization of solar radiation and our utilization of solar radiation and our utilization of solar radiation and that's just that's just that's just a graph sort of teaching grandma to suck a graph sort of teaching grandma to suck a graph sort of teaching grandma to suck eggs more sunshine in the summer eggs more sunshine in the summer eggs more sunshine in the summer and obviously with our cash crops as and obviously with our cash crops as and obviously with our cash crops as sunshine's building through the spring sunshine's building through the spring sunshine's building through the spring and early summer and early summer and early summer we're maximizing the photosynthesis and we're maximizing the photosynthesis and we're maximizing the photosynthesis and the biomass yield by judicious use of the biomass yield by judicious use of the biomass yield by judicious use of inputs inputs inputs and um trying to grow the crops as and um trying to grow the crops as and um trying to grow the crops as efficiently as we can um to maximize the efficiently as we can um to maximize the efficiently as we can um to maximize the yield and maximize root exudates and yield and maximize root exudates and yield and maximize root exudates and crop biomass going back into the system crop biomass going back into the system crop biomass going back into the system but then i think the trick is but then i think the trick is but then i think the trick is in buildings organic matter is sort of in buildings organic matter is sort of in buildings organic matter is sort of sneaking in those extra bits of sneaking in those extra bits of sneaking in those extra bits of photosynthesis the big thing for me is photosynthesis the big thing for me is photosynthesis the big thing for me is this july august early september period this july august early september period this july august early september period where you've got a lot of solar where you've got a lot of solar where you've got a lot of solar radiation and radiation and radiation and traditionally you've got no um crops in traditionally you've got no um crops in traditionally you've got no um crops in the system the system the system so this is where you cover crops when so this is where you cover crops when so this is where you cover crops when you catch crops um you catch crops um you catch crops um come in traditionally obviously that's come in traditionally obviously that's come in traditionally obviously that's the sort of scenario you might have seen the sort of scenario you might have seen the sort of scenario you might have seen on farms on farms on farms between summer harvested crops and between summer harvested crops and between summer harvested crops and spring planted crops spring planted crops spring planted crops bare stubbles even plowed cultivated bare stubbles even plowed cultivated bare stubbles even plowed cultivated fields and nothing growing on them fields and nothing growing on them fields and nothing growing on them um a bit of a missed trick really um a bit of a missed trick really um a bit of a missed trick really missing out on photosynthesis missing out on photosynthesis missing out on photosynthesis so we're putting cover crops in um so we're putting cover crops in um so we're putting cover crops in um wherever we can and the other thing wherever we can and the other thing wherever we can and the other thing about cover crops and thinking about about cover crops and thinking about about cover crops and thinking about maxing out that solar radiation maxing out that solar radiation maxing out that solar radiation we need to get the crops in the ground we need to get the crops in the ground we need to get the crops in the ground and growing the drill needs to be in the and growing the drill needs to be in the and growing the drill needs to be in the field with the combine harvester field with the combine harvester field with the combine harvester this is last year um this is last year um this is last year um the field on the right drilled um the field on the right drilled um the field on the right drilled um on the 4th of august on the left exactly on the 4th of august on the left exactly on the 4th of august on the left exactly the same mix on the same soil type the same mix on the same soil type the same mix on the same soil type into the same scenario of chopped wheat into the same scenario of chopped wheat into the same scenario of chopped wheat straw drilled nearly a month later straw drilled nearly a month later straw drilled nearly a month later their photos in october the one on the their photos in october the one on the their photos in october the one on the right is up around your waist right is up around your waist right is up around your waist and the one on the left is barely taller and the one on the left is barely taller and the one on the left is barely taller than the stubble than the stubble than the stubble so again if we're going to utilize this so again if we're going to utilize this so again if we're going to utilize this radiation in the summer we need to get radiation in the summer we need to get radiation in the summer we need to get the crops in the ground and growing the crops in the ground and growing the crops in the ground and growing um the other thing obviously is catch um the other thing obviously is catch um the other thing obviously is catch crops crops crops between um as well as cover crops between um as well as cover crops between um as well as cover crops between between between summer harvested crops and spring crops summer harvested crops and spring crops summer harvested crops and spring crops is whether you can get catch crops in is whether you can get catch crops in is whether you can get catch crops in between summer harvested crops and between summer harvested crops and between summer harvested crops and winter planted crops winter planted crops winter planted crops and people try to do this in the uk we and people try to do this in the uk we and people try to do this in the uk we don't try don't try don't try i think it's too difficult um people i think it's too difficult um people i think it's too difficult um people put mustard crops in and quit growing put mustard crops in and quit growing put mustard crops in and quit growing crops and try and get a bit of a crop crops and try and get a bit of a crop crops and try and get a bit of a crop growing there but growing there but growing there but i think it's quite it's quite difficult i think it's quite it's quite difficult i think it's quite it's quite difficult in uk conditions in uk conditions in uk conditions um cover crops early on um cover crops early on um cover crops early on tended to be about two or three things tended to be about two or three things tended to be about two or three things in the mix high biomass we're aiming for in the mix high biomass we're aiming for in the mix high biomass we're aiming for high biomass cover crops and then high biomass cover crops and then high biomass cover crops and then grazing them off with sheep grazing them off with sheep grazing them off with sheep as the years have gone by the mix has as the years have gone by the mix has as the years have gone by the mix has got more diverse got more diverse got more diverse and more intricate that was last year's and more intricate that was last year's and more intricate that was last year's cover crop mix cover crop mix cover crop mix many more legumes in the mix now and many more legumes in the mix now and many more legumes in the mix now and less cereals less cereals less cereals um various reasons um um various reasons um um various reasons um for mixtures we wanted diversity of root for mixtures we wanted diversity of root for mixtures we wanted diversity of root systems obviously exploring the soil systems obviously exploring the soil systems obviously exploring the soil profile profile profile you've got different microbial you've got different microbial you've got different microbial associations with the different plants associations with the different plants associations with the different plants um and so as tom was pointing out in his um and so as tom was pointing out in his um and so as tom was pointing out in his talk you've potentially got talk you've potentially got talk you've potentially got better community carbon use efficiency better community carbon use efficiency better community carbon use efficiency from different plants from different plants from different plants you've also got a range of cn ratios you've also got a range of cn ratios you've also got a range of cn ratios which has given you which has given you which has given you again a better community carbon use again a better community carbon use again a better community carbon use efficiency it's all about getting efficiency it's all about getting efficiency it's all about getting diversity into the rhizosphere and into diversity into the rhizosphere and into diversity into the rhizosphere and into the the the soil um and just while we're on mixtures soil um and just while we're on mixtures soil um and just while we're on mixtures and and and diversity with our cash crops as well diversity with our cash crops as well diversity with our cash crops as well we're playing around trying to maximize we're playing around trying to maximize we're playing around trying to maximize infield diversity and for the last few infield diversity and for the last few infield diversity and for the last few years been playing around with years been playing around with years been playing around with under stories companion cropping um under stories companion cropping um under stories companion cropping um the ultimate one in the bottom right the ultimate one in the bottom right the ultimate one in the bottom right hand corner agroforestry is one of my hand corner agroforestry is one of my hand corner agroforestry is one of my pet favorites that we haven't really got pet favorites that we haven't really got pet favorites that we haven't really got around to around to around to doing yet but hopefully sometime in the doing yet but hopefully sometime in the doing yet but hopefully sometime in the future future future um right going back to my main slide um right going back to my main slide um right going back to my main slide now to talk a bit about returning crop now to talk a bit about returning crop now to talk a bit about returning crop residues this is something that over the residues this is something that over the residues this is something that over the years years years and as our lady alluded to earlier on and as our lady alluded to earlier on and as our lady alluded to earlier on i've spent a lot of effort on returning i've spent a lot of effort on returning i've spent a lot of effort on returning crop residues and i think a lot of it crop residues and i think a lot of it crop residues and i think a lot of it has been sort of has been sort of has been sort of misguided really and a lot of the misguided really and a lot of the misguided really and a lot of the problems it's caused us have probably problems it's caused us have probably problems it's caused us have probably been detrimental been detrimental been detrimental to our overall soil organic matter to our overall soil organic matter to our overall soil organic matter improvements improvements improvements um obviously you've got a range of um obviously you've got a range of um obviously you've got a range of outcomes outcomes outcomes with um crop residues sort of one with um crop residues sort of one with um crop residues sort of one extreme here is your extreme here is your extreme here is your high cn ratio cereal straws left on the high cn ratio cereal straws left on the high cn ratio cereal straws left on the surface surface surface um and your subsequent crop we've got um and your subsequent crop we've got um and your subsequent crop we've got obviously rate there obviously rate there obviously rate there direct drilled you've got a fungal direct drilled you've got a fungal direct drilled you've got a fungal dominated residue decomposition there dominated residue decomposition there dominated residue decomposition there and these are the situations where and these are the situations where and these are the situations where obviously you're hoping the net end obviously you're hoping the net end obviously you're hoping the net end result into the soil system is result into the soil system is result into the soil system is the best but that gives us the most the best but that gives us the most the best but that gives us the most problems in establishing following crops problems in establishing following crops problems in establishing following crops you've got another extreme here where you've got another extreme here where you've got another extreme here where you might grow low cn ratio you might grow low cn ratio you might grow low cn ratio crops like beans and to an extent also crops like beans and to an extent also crops like beans and to an extent also grape grape grape um if their residues are soil um if their residues are soil um if their residues are soil incorporated incorporated incorporated you're sort of tending to towards a you're sort of tending to towards a you're sort of tending to towards a bacterial dominated residue bacterial dominated residue bacterial dominated residue decomposition decomposition decomposition um not quite so beneficial in the soil um not quite so beneficial in the soil um not quite so beneficial in the soil system system system um we find that these also grape and um we find that these also grape and um we find that these also grape and bean residues bean residues bean residues in practice we don't incorporate them in practice we don't incorporate them in practice we don't incorporate them they're just left on the surface the they're just left on the surface the they're just left on the surface the same as the cereal ones same as the cereal ones same as the cereal ones but they give us very little um problem but they give us very little um problem but they give us very little um problem with establishing following crops with establishing following crops with establishing following crops mainly because it's cereals after them mainly because it's cereals after them mainly because it's cereals after them but obviously but obviously but obviously you haven't got problems with residue you haven't got problems with residue you haven't got problems with residue decomposition because decomposition because decomposition because the low cn ratio they break down much the low cn ratio they break down much the low cn ratio they break down much more quickly and don't tie up nitrogen more quickly and don't tie up nitrogen more quickly and don't tie up nitrogen um just going back to cyril and just um just going back to cyril and just um just going back to cyril and just whizzing through a few slides showing whizzing through a few slides showing whizzing through a few slides showing the problems over the years the problems over the years the problems over the years chopping winter barley straw there a few chopping winter barley straw there a few chopping winter barley straw there a few years ago years ago years ago you can see down the left hand side i you can see down the left hand side i you can see down the left hand side i don't if you can see my pointer we left don't if you can see my pointer we left don't if you can see my pointer we left a straw swath and bailed it and a straw swath and bailed it and a straw swath and bailed it and subsequently direct drilled or seed rape subsequently direct drilled or seed rape subsequently direct drilled or seed rape that's the also that's the also that's the also rape establishment over the whole field rape establishment over the whole field rape establishment over the whole field that's actually after we redrilled it that's actually after we redrilled it that's actually after we redrilled it the first establishment was really poor the first establishment was really poor the first establishment was really poor and then we drilled it for a second time and then we drilled it for a second time and then we drilled it for a second time that's the area in the field that we that's the area in the field that we that's the area in the field that we bale the straw swath bale the straw swath bale the straw swath so you can see we ended up with a crop so you can see we ended up with a crop so you can see we ended up with a crop on the bulk of the field which was a bit on the bulk of the field which was a bit on the bulk of the field which was a bit half a half mast compared to the half a half mast compared to the half a half mast compared to the fantastic crop where we took the straw fantastic crop where we took the straw fantastic crop where we took the straw off off off and you do have to ask yourself the and you do have to ask yourself the and you do have to ask yourself the question you know this question you know this question you know this this crop with a straw came off you've this crop with a straw came off you've this crop with a straw came off you've got big high biomass crop got big high biomass crop got big high biomass crop big root systems good photosynthetic big root systems good photosynthetic big root systems good photosynthetic exudates going down into the soil um exudates going down into the soil um exudates going down into the soil um and you do wonder if you shot yourself and you do wonder if you shot yourself and you do wonder if you shot yourself in the foot a bit because in the foot a bit because in the foot a bit because you've fair enough you've incorporated you've fair enough you've incorporated you've fair enough you've incorporated the straw and the bulk of the field but the straw and the bulk of the field but the straw and the bulk of the field but actually have you ended up with less actually have you ended up with less actually have you ended up with less organic matter organic matter organic matter in the system um could have sold a straw in the system um could have sold a straw in the system um could have sold a straw and ended up with a and ended up with a and ended up with a nicely established crop of rake the end nicely established crop of rake the end nicely established crop of rake the end result actually was very result actually was very result actually was very um satisfactory the whole field averaged um satisfactory the whole field averaged um satisfactory the whole field averaged nearly five ton to the hectare but you nearly five ton to the hectare but you nearly five ton to the hectare but you can see can see can see the bale strip down that left-hand side the bale strip down that left-hand side the bale strip down that left-hand side where i've got the two where i've got the two where i've got the two red lines to market if you look across red lines to market if you look across red lines to market if you look across on the legend on the legend on the legend that bit yielded well over 5.5 ton to that bit yielded well over 5.5 ton to that bit yielded well over 5.5 ton to the hectare so the hectare so the hectare so it was a significant yield increase um it was a significant yield increase um it was a significant yield increase um other issues here direct drilling a other issues here direct drilling a other issues here direct drilling a spring cover crop a cover crop mix spring cover crop a cover crop mix spring cover crop a cover crop mix into chopped spring barley straw and into chopped spring barley straw and into chopped spring barley straw and basically waste basically waste basically waste money on the expensive seeds in the mix money on the expensive seeds in the mix money on the expensive seeds in the mix because only the mustard grew because only the mustard grew because only the mustard grew um everything else failed it's it's too um everything else failed it's it's too um everything else failed it's it's too harsh an environment we harsh an environment we harsh an environment we we've found over the years to try and we've found over the years to try and we've found over the years to try and plant things into the spring barley plant things into the spring barley plant things into the spring barley straw straw straw it's such a massive straw breaking down it's such a massive straw breaking down it's such a massive straw breaking down um um um uh 2016 we had to draw this field twice uh 2016 we had to draw this field twice uh 2016 we had to draw this field twice um first attempt lost to slugs and um first attempt lost to slugs and um first attempt lost to slugs and snails snails snails um also great last year direct drilled um also great last year direct drilled um also great last year direct drilled after chop winter barley straw after chop winter barley straw after chop winter barley straw again slugs have ravaged it um over the again slugs have ravaged it um over the again slugs have ravaged it um over the years we've learned to cope with these years we've learned to cope with these years we've learned to cope with these straw residues though straw residues though straw residues though this was in 2018 drilling lawsuit rape this was in 2018 drilling lawsuit rape this was in 2018 drilling lawsuit rape that was a resulting crop in that was a resulting crop in that was a resulting crop in mid-november the only issues in that mid-november the only issues in that mid-november the only issues in that field field field just two strips down in the middle of just two strips down in the middle of just two strips down in the middle of the field where we were combining the the field where we were combining the the field where we were combining the winter barley winter barley winter barley we uh combined two late in the evening we uh combined two late in the evening we uh combined two late in the evening and the chop quality deteriorated and the chop quality deteriorated and the chop quality deteriorated um where we have poor chop quality we um where we have poor chop quality we um where we have poor chop quality we find real issues with establishing rape find real issues with establishing rape find real issues with establishing rape um but generally we're we're coping with um but generally we're we're coping with um but generally we're we're coping with these high straw loadings now we're these high straw loadings now we're these high straw loadings now we're doing lots of multiple rolling passes to doing lots of multiple rolling passes to doing lots of multiple rolling passes to ensure ensure ensure soil to seed contact and i think as my soil to seed contact and i think as my soil to seed contact and i think as my soil system gets used to a soil system gets used to a soil system gets used to a big load of high cn ratios going back in big load of high cn ratios going back in big load of high cn ratios going back in the whole time the whole time the whole time it's just gobbling up the residues uh it's just gobbling up the residues uh it's just gobbling up the residues uh more quickly and easier than it did in more quickly and easier than it did in more quickly and easier than it did in the past the past the past um obviously the other thing with a lot um obviously the other thing with a lot um obviously the other thing with a lot of high cn ratios of high cn ratios of high cn ratios uh residues on the surfaces they're uh residues on the surfaces they're uh residues on the surfaces they're really good worm food really good worm food really good worm food so um i'm feeding my nice deep boring so um i'm feeding my nice deep boring so um i'm feeding my nice deep boring earthworms earthworms earthworms and we see all over the farm earth and we see all over the farm earth and we see all over the farm earth earthworm middens everywhere earthworm middens everywhere earthworm middens everywhere and they're basically doing the and they're basically doing the and they're basically doing the incorporation for me um incorporation for me um incorporation for me um right next one quickly um right next one quickly um right next one quickly um looking at both sides of the equation looking at both sides of the equation looking at both sides of the equation here or building organic matter and here or building organic matter and here or building organic matter and structure on the structure side structure on the structure side structure on the structure side the minimizing compaction and not the minimizing compaction and not the minimizing compaction and not cultivating cultivating cultivating um that's where control traffic feeds in um that's where control traffic feeds in um that's where control traffic feeds in and also not oxidizing the carbon that and also not oxidizing the carbon that and also not oxidizing the carbon that we've sequestered we've sequestered we've sequestered so this is how we do our controlled so this is how we do our controlled so this is how we do our controlled traffic system traffic system traffic system first of all if you just think about first of all if you just think about first of all if you just think about where farm machinery has gone 40 50 where farm machinery has gone 40 50 where farm machinery has gone 40 50 years ago you might have a tractor and years ago you might have a tractor and years ago you might have a tractor and drill drill drill two or three turn down in the left-hand two or three turn down in the left-hand two or three turn down in the left-hand corner a little grey fergie corner a little grey fergie corner a little grey fergie um nowadays you're talking 20 or 30 ton um nowadays you're talking 20 or 30 ton um nowadays you're talking 20 or 30 ton for an outfit for an outfit for an outfit and fair enough they're on white tracks and fair enough they're on white tracks and fair enough they're on white tracks the ground pressure is the ground pressure is the ground pressure is low on the surface but it's the overall low on the surface but it's the overall low on the surface but it's the overall axle weight acting down on the soil is axle weight acting down on the soil is axle weight acting down on the soil is still a big problem you know imagine a still a big problem you know imagine a still a big problem you know imagine a flimsy sleeper bridge over a dike in the flimsy sleeper bridge over a dike in the flimsy sleeper bridge over a dike in the fence fence fence i know which one i'd rather drive over i know which one i'd rather drive over i know which one i'd rather drive over the um fragile bridge the um fragile bridge the um fragile bridge and it's just thinking about the big and it's just thinking about the big and it's just thinking about the big axle loadings on the soil axle loadings on the soil axle loadings on the soil what we used to do on hendrick estate is what we used to do on hendrick estate is what we used to do on hendrick estate is basically like a lot of other people basically like a lot of other people basically like a lot of other people multiple width implements driving multiple width implements driving multiple width implements driving different directions all over the field different directions all over the field different directions all over the field so we were trafficking 80 so we were trafficking 80 so we were trafficking 80 of the soil surface now we've got of the soil surface now we've got of the soil surface now we've got everything set everything set everything set 10 meters wide on multiples of 10 um 30 10 meters wide on multiples of 10 um 30 10 meters wide on multiples of 10 um 30 meter tramline widths meter tramline widths meter tramline widths and we've turned our trafficking on its and we've turned our trafficking on its and we've turned our trafficking on its head instead of trafficking 80 percent head instead of trafficking 80 percent head instead of trafficking 80 percent we're trafficking 20 percent um we're trafficking 20 percent um we're trafficking 20 percent um this is what it looks like in the field this is what it looks like in the field this is what it looks like in the field that's a neighbour's farm after harvest that's a neighbour's farm after harvest that's a neighbour's farm after harvest so lots of compaction damage randomly so lots of compaction damage randomly so lots of compaction damage randomly all over the field all over the field all over the field they've got to cultivate to alleviate they've got to cultivate to alleviate they've got to cultivate to alleviate that obviously letting that obviously letting that obviously letting carbon out of the system in the process carbon out of the system in the process carbon out of the system in the process and damaging fungal networks and and damaging fungal networks and and damaging fungal networks and all the other problems with cultivation all the other problems with cultivation all the other problems with cultivation our our our system next door basically eighty system next door basically eighty system next door basically eighty percent of it untouched and where we percent of it untouched and where we percent of it untouched and where we have got have got have got if you can see my pointer there um if you can see my pointer there um if you can see my pointer there um between every 30 meter tram lines between every 30 meter tram lines between every 30 meter tram lines there's a couple of there's a couple of there's a couple of infills where we're trying to grow crops infills where we're trying to grow crops infills where we're trying to grow crops if they're compacted we can just run if they're compacted we can just run if they're compacted we can just run down with a two leg subsoiler down with a two leg subsoiler down with a two leg subsoiler and just alleviate that compaction and just alleviate that compaction and just alleviate that compaction without touching most of the soil without touching most of the soil without touching most of the soil surface and that's what it looks like in and that's what it looks like in and that's what it looks like in practice vehicles also sort of using the practice vehicles also sort of using the practice vehicles also sort of using the same set of wheelings same set of wheelings same set of wheelings that's drilling a cover crop type behind that's drilling a cover crop type behind that's drilling a cover crop type behind the combine the combine the combine basically the drills chasing the combine basically the drills chasing the combine basically the drills chasing the combine out of the fields out of the fields out of the fields um the last big topic uh nearly finished um the last big topic uh nearly finished um the last big topic uh nearly finished now now now um this is one that i'm sort of um this is one that i'm sort of um this is one that i'm sort of increasingly we could talk about this increasingly we could talk about this increasingly we could talk about this for hours but i've only got a few for hours but i've only got a few for hours but i've only got a few minutes minutes minutes i'm increasingly motivated by this i'm increasingly motivated by this i'm increasingly motivated by this optimization of synthetic air and to optimization of synthetic air and to optimization of synthetic air and to maximize the building retention of soil maximize the building retention of soil maximize the building retention of soil organic matter organic matter organic matter if we think about it n is it's and ends if we think about it n is it's and ends if we think about it n is it's and ends the elephant in the room really that the elephant in the room really that the elephant in the room really that people don't really talk about that much people don't really talk about that much people don't really talk about that much in relation to soil organic matter and in relation to soil organic matter and in relation to soil organic matter and it's a good guy and it's a bad guy if it's a good guy and it's a bad guy if it's a good guy and it's a bad guy if you think about it you think about it you think about it judicious use of synthetic n one side of judicious use of synthetic n one side of judicious use of synthetic n one side of the the the um balance it's fantastic you're um balance it's fantastic you're um balance it's fantastic you're increasing crop growth photosynthesis increasing crop growth photosynthesis increasing crop growth photosynthesis biomass building soil organic matter biomass building soil organic matter biomass building soil organic matter and i think that's where in a lot of and i think that's where in a lot of and i think that's where in a lot of ways um conventional farmers can hold ways um conventional farmers can hold ways um conventional farmers can hold their heads up high compared their heads up high compared their heads up high compared to organic farmers because we are to organic farmers because we are to organic farmers because we are growing 12 ton crops of wheat instead of growing 12 ton crops of wheat instead of growing 12 ton crops of wheat instead of 14 crops of wheat 14 crops of wheat 14 crops of wheat and we are putting more carbon into the and we are putting more carbon into the and we are putting more carbon into the soils with um soils with um soils with um judicious use of n so it's good but then judicious use of n so it's good but then judicious use of n so it's good but then if you if you if you tilt the scale too far the other way and tilt the scale too far the other way and tilt the scale too far the other way and go into excessive use of synthetic again go into excessive use of synthetic again go into excessive use of synthetic again you start to get lots of problems um you start to get lots of problems um you start to get lots of problems um obviously if there's a lot of synthetic obviously if there's a lot of synthetic obviously if there's a lot of synthetic again in the system soil system again in the system soil system again in the system soil system and the soil biology is looking for and the soil biology is looking for and the soil biology is looking for carbon uh to balance up the cn ratio carbon uh to balance up the cn ratio carbon uh to balance up the cn ratio the only way you can really get it to the only way you can really get it to the only way you can really get it to start eating soil organic matter and start eating soil organic matter and start eating soil organic matter and then we start to get carbon losses into then we start to get carbon losses into then we start to get carbon losses into the atmosphere the atmosphere the atmosphere uh we get the other and the soil organic uh we get the other and the soil organic uh we get the other and the soil organic matter is ultimately reducing matter is ultimately reducing matter is ultimately reducing we also got problems with nitrate we also got problems with nitrate we also got problems with nitrate leaching ammonia emissions nitrous oxide leaching ammonia emissions nitrous oxide leaching ammonia emissions nitrous oxide emissions which emissions which emissions which they're all big problems with excess they're all big problems with excess they're all big problems with excess nitrogen but we can't really go into nitrogen but we can't really go into nitrogen but we can't really go into those those those so i think really there's a new paradigm so i think really there's a new paradigm so i think really there's a new paradigm with with with um soil nitrogen with sorry synthetic um soil nitrogen with sorry synthetic um soil nitrogen with sorry synthetic nitrogen i mean in the old days farmers nitrogen i mean in the old days farmers nitrogen i mean in the old days farmers we're sort of always talking about we're sort of always talking about we're sort of always talking about optimizing synthetic enemies to maximize optimizing synthetic enemies to maximize optimizing synthetic enemies to maximize economic economic yields economic economic yields economic economic yields but i think if we're really serious but i think if we're really serious but i think if we're really serious about climate change and maximizing soil about climate change and maximizing soil about climate change and maximizing soil organic matter organic matter organic matter we really need to think about um we really need to think about um we really need to think about um optimizing synthetic optimizing synthetic optimizing synthetic n for maximizing organic matter n for maximizing organic matter n for maximizing organic matter accumulation in soils which is a accumulation in soils which is a accumulation in soils which is a slightly different slightly different slightly different level of synthetic gain which would be level of synthetic gain which would be level of synthetic gain which would be much lower down the scale much lower down the scale much lower down the scale and i think there's a lot of work to be and i think there's a lot of work to be and i think there's a lot of work to be done on this concept done on this concept done on this concept um just two little side points to do um just two little side points to do um just two little side points to do with n with n with n um there's lots of things to talk about um there's lots of things to talk about um there's lots of things to talk about and it's all about increasing end use and it's all about increasing end use and it's all about increasing end use efficiency which we try and do in lots efficiency which we try and do in lots efficiency which we try and do in lots of ways on the farm but of ways on the farm but of ways on the farm but two other little side points which i two other little side points which i two other little side points which i think are quite interesting um i often think are quite interesting um i often think are quite interesting um i often think about this concept if you're think about this concept if you're think about this concept if you're putting a balanced putting a balanced putting a balanced cn ratio material into soil like a cn ratio material into soil like a cn ratio material into soil like a compost a nice balanced compost compost a nice balanced compost compost a nice balanced compost amendment amendment amendment i often think that the soil biology just i often think that the soil biology just i often think that the soil biology just sort of thinks oh sort of thinks oh sort of thinks oh mr farmer's basically just added soil to mr farmer's basically just added soil to mr farmer's basically just added soil to soil there's nothing for us to do boys soil there's nothing for us to do boys soil there's nothing for us to do boys we'll just we'll just we'll just roll over and go back to sleep but when roll over and go back to sleep but when roll over and go back to sleep but when i'm putting a big load of high cn ratio i'm putting a big load of high cn ratio i'm putting a big load of high cn ratio straw into the system and if i'm putting straw into the system and if i'm putting straw into the system and if i'm putting synthetic end with it as well synthetic end with it as well synthetic end with it as well the obviously the soil biology has got the obviously the soil biology has got the obviously the soil biology has got to wake up to digest that to wake up to digest that to wake up to digest that straw and obviously it'll utilize the straw and obviously it'll utilize the straw and obviously it'll utilize the synthetic end to synthetic end to synthetic end to equalize the cn ratio so you're turning equalize the cn ratio so you're turning equalize the cn ratio so you're turning synthetic air into synthetic air into synthetic air into organic end in the bodies of the soil organic end in the bodies of the soil organic end in the bodies of the soil organisms organisms organisms and obviously eventually these are and obviously eventually these are and obviously eventually these are rotting down and it's becoming rotting down and it's becoming rotting down and it's becoming organic and that becomes slowly organic and that becomes slowly organic and that becomes slowly available to crops but in the meantime available to crops but in the meantime available to crops but in the meantime you're you're you're you're sort of locking up synthetic end you're sort of locking up synthetic end you're sort of locking up synthetic end stopping it leaching over winter stopping it leaching over winter stopping it leaching over winter and turning it into a much better format and turning it into a much better format and turning it into a much better format and the whole thing i always think and the whole thing i always think and the whole thing i always think he's maybe stimulating as long as you've he's maybe stimulating as long as you've he's maybe stimulating as long as you've got enough sword biology there got enough sword biology there got enough sword biology there stimulating it to all work rather than stimulating it to all work rather than stimulating it to all work rather than just putting something that's nicely just putting something that's nicely just putting something that's nicely nicely balanced into the system just a nicely balanced into the system just a nicely balanced into the system just a thought thought thought um the other thing with nearly finished um the other thing with nearly finished um the other thing with nearly finished now i've got now i've got now i've got very two quick slides um limiting very two quick slides um limiting very two quick slides um limiting synthetic end use we're sort of on the synthetic end use we're sort of on the synthetic end use we're sort of on the farm we're trying to integrate legumes farm we're trying to integrate legumes farm we're trying to integrate legumes within the cropping situation within the cropping situation within the cropping situation and obviously this has got lots of and obviously this has got lots of and obviously this has got lots of benefits because it's also balancing cn benefits because it's also balancing cn benefits because it's also balancing cn ratios in the system ratios in the system ratios in the system um and improving sort of nitrogen um and improving sort of nitrogen um and improving sort of nitrogen lock-up situations lock-up situations lock-up situations and improving the sort of overall carbon and improving the sort of overall carbon and improving the sort of overall carbon use efficiency use efficiency use efficiency and also increasingly infill and also increasingly infill and also increasingly infill biodiversity as i spoke about earlier biodiversity as i spoke about earlier biodiversity as i spoke about earlier and getting diverse rise effects fears and getting diverse rise effects fears and getting diverse rise effects fears in the system in the system in the system um so companion cropping um so companion cropping um so companion cropping um works with orcid rape um works with orcid rape um works with orcid rape it's very difficult we've tried to take it's very difficult we've tried to take it's very difficult we've tried to take it to harvest with beans and oats it to harvest with beans and oats it to harvest with beans and oats very difficult to harvest and very very difficult to harvest and very very difficult to harvest and very difficult to separate them so it's work difficult to separate them so it's work difficult to separate them so it's work in progress in progress in progress this sort of clover understory is more this sort of clover understory is more this sort of clover understory is more interesting and again interesting and again interesting and again two last quick points um playing around two last quick points um playing around two last quick points um playing around with a with a with a either an annual or a permanent clover either an annual or a permanent clover either an annual or a permanent clover understory and planting crops annual understory and planting crops annual understory and planting crops annual crops into it crops into it crops into it the permanent one we found doesn't work the permanent one we found doesn't work the permanent one we found doesn't work very well it's very very difficult very well it's very very difficult very well it's very very difficult because the clover gets too established because the clover gets too established because the clover gets too established and it out competes the annual crop but and it out competes the annual crop but and it out competes the annual crop but i think for example planting a clover i think for example planting a clover i think for example planting a clover understory understory understory with the spring barley and then when you with the spring barley and then when you with the spring barley and then when you harvest the spring barley you've already harvest the spring barley you've already harvest the spring barley you've already got got got living green material to harvest that living green material to harvest that living green material to harvest that solar radiation in solar radiation in solar radiation in august and september is a useful concept august and september is a useful concept august and september is a useful concept that we're playing around with that we're playing around with that we're playing around with and also the other idea is and also the other idea is and also the other idea is putting a non-serial legume-based cover putting a non-serial legume-based cover putting a non-serial legume-based cover crop in crop in crop in in the autumn and selectively spraying in the autumn and selectively spraying in the autumn and selectively spraying out the cereal and black grass out the cereal and black grass out the cereal and black grass out of the system and then direct out of the system and then direct out of the system and then direct drilling the spring bar into the living drilling the spring bar into the living drilling the spring bar into the living cover crop cover crop cover crop rather than eating it with sheep or rather than eating it with sheep or rather than eating it with sheep or spraying it off the ground up spraying it off the ground up spraying it off the ground up and then leaving that in the spring and then leaving that in the spring and then leaving that in the spring barley crop as long as you can barley crop as long as you can barley crop as long as you can probably late april early may and probably late april early may and probably late april early may and spraying it out with the selective spraying it out with the selective spraying it out with the selective herbicide herbicide herbicide and that way you've got you've had this and that way you've got you've had this and that way you've got you've had this um legume cover crop in the system um legume cover crop in the system um legume cover crop in the system growing under the spring barley and growing under the spring barley and growing under the spring barley and you've got this you've got this you've got this low cn ratio cover crop rotting down and low cn ratio cover crop rotting down and low cn ratio cover crop rotting down and it's not locking up it's not locking up it's not locking up um nitrogen uh for the growing barley um nitrogen uh for the growing barley um nitrogen uh for the growing barley crop and getting assimilated quickly crop and getting assimilated quickly crop and getting assimilated quickly i think i better leave my last two i think i better leave my last two i think i better leave my last two slides other than just slides other than just slides other than just two quick comments over the years we've two quick comments over the years we've two quick comments over the years we've built with building soil organic matter built with building soil organic matter built with building soil organic matter i reckon over 20 years at a rate of i reckon over 20 years at a rate of i reckon over 20 years at a rate of about about about 0.13 per year so it's not a quick 0.13 per year so it's not a quick 0.13 per year so it's not a quick process and we're not matching the four process and we're not matching the four process and we're not matching the four per thousand initiative yet but per thousand initiative yet but per thousand initiative yet but remember we've not got the rotational remember we've not got the rotational remember we've not got the rotational lays in the system and we've not got lays in the system and we've not got lays in the system and we've not got organic amendments organic amendments organic amendments and the last slide was just a point on and the last slide was just a point on and the last slide was just a point on be careful of soil organic matter be careful of soil organic matter be careful of soil organic matter testing testing testing uh one in the red oval one sample uh one in the red oval one sample uh one in the red oval one sample effectively to three labs and four effectively to three labs and four effectively to three labs and four different soil tests a range of 2.1 different soil tests a range of 2.1 different soil tests a range of 2.1 percent percent percent a more interesting thing is the green a more interesting thing is the green a more interesting thing is the green oval which is oval which is oval which is um a soil sample from a field and a saw um a soil sample from a field and a saw um a soil sample from a field and a saw sample from under the hedge next door to sample from under the hedge next door to sample from under the hedge next door to it sent to the same lab on the same day it sent to the same lab on the same day it sent to the same lab on the same day with the same test with the same test with the same test so it shows me what i'm trying to so it shows me what i'm trying to so it shows me what i'm trying to achieve in the field i've got a sort of achieve in the field i've got a sort of achieve in the field i've got a sort of natural soil organic matter of 7.7 under natural soil organic matter of 7.7 under natural soil organic matter of 7.7 under the hedge the hedge the hedge but i'm managing to achieve six in the but i'm managing to achieve six in the but i'm managing to achieve six in the field where i've got a cropping system field where i've got a cropping system field where i've got a cropping system going on going on going on thanks brilliant thank you julian some great brilliant thank you julian some great brilliant thank you julian some great insights there into the sort of the insights there into the sort of the insights there into the sort of the practical application practical application practical application of the science and some great questions of the science and some great questions of the science and some great questions that you've posed as well i think um that you've posed as well i think um that you've posed as well i think um so tom's been monitoring the questions so tom's been monitoring the questions so tom's been monitoring the questions can i hand over to yourself can i hand over to yourself can i hand over to yourself tom to try and get through as many as we tom to try and get through as many as we tom to try and get through as many as we can yeah thank you bruce yeah can yeah thank you bruce yeah can yeah thank you bruce yeah so we've got a few minutes to get so we've got a few minutes to get so we've got a few minutes to get through some questions i've tried to through some questions i've tried to through some questions i've tried to type some answers type some answers type some answers to individual questions as well um i'll to individual questions as well um i'll to individual questions as well um i'll give julian a break and answer one give julian a break and answer one give julian a break and answer one myself and then i'll i'll ham one to myself and then i'll i'll ham one to myself and then i'll i'll ham one to julian julian julian um but israel asks can you differentiate um but israel asks can you differentiate um but israel asks can you differentiate between the microbial necromancers and between the microbial necromancers and between the microbial necromancers and the microbial the microbial the microbial biomass in the soil are there methods to biomass in the soil are there methods to biomass in the soil are there methods to separate them so separate them so separate them so so yeah there's some quite long um so yeah there's some quite long um so yeah there's some quite long um long-standing methods that long-standing methods that long-standing methods that we can use to um to measure microbial we can use to um to measure microbial we can use to um to measure microbial biomass so biomass so biomass so typically we extract the soil with um typically we extract the soil with um typically we extract the soil with um with a salt solution and we can do that with a salt solution and we can do that with a salt solution and we can do that with by splitting this all into two with by splitting this all into two with by splitting this all into two halves halves halves and one half we would fumigate with and one half we would fumigate with and one half we would fumigate with chloroform first to chloroform first to chloroform first to kill all the microbial biomass and that kill all the microbial biomass and that kill all the microbial biomass and that releases all their carbon releases all their carbon releases all their carbon and that differentiates the living and that differentiates the living and that differentiates the living versus the dead versus the dead versus the dead microbial community in the soil microbial community in the soil microbial community in the soil um i can hand one over to julian i think um i can hand one over to julian i think um i can hand one over to julian i think so there's a question here so there's a question here so there's a question here um about whether returning crop residues um about whether returning crop residues um about whether returning crop residues into the soil causes pest issues such as into the soil causes pest issues such as into the soil causes pest issues such as slugs so do you see these issues slugs so do you see these issues slugs so do you see these issues julian and what might you do to resolve julian and what might you do to resolve julian and what might you do to resolve them yeah i mean as you saw in some of them yeah i mean as you saw in some of them yeah i mean as you saw in some of those pictures those pictures those pictures uh slugs have been a massive issue over uh slugs have been a massive issue over uh slugs have been a massive issue over the years for us the years for us the years for us massive issue um a bit of raking helps massive issue um a bit of raking helps massive issue um a bit of raking helps physical degradation of slugs physical degradation of slugs physical degradation of slugs and slug eggs really helps well in the and slug eggs really helps well in the and slug eggs really helps well in the summer so we summer so we summer so we sometimes rake if we have to we've got a sometimes rake if we have to we've got a sometimes rake if we have to we've got a 10 meter rake that we can use 10 meter rake that we can use 10 meter rake that we can use we roll lots post establishment which we roll lots post establishment which we roll lots post establishment which helps consolidate again it helps uh with helps consolidate again it helps uh with helps consolidate again it helps uh with physical slug control physical slug control physical slug control we've used a relatively large amount we've used a relatively large amount we've used a relatively large amount over the years of over the years of over the years of slug pellets a hastening thread we're slug pellets a hastening thread we're slug pellets a hastening thread we're using phosphate we have been for years using phosphate we have been for years using phosphate we have been for years rather than metal dehyde rather than metal dehyde rather than metal dehyde which is kind to the soil ecosystem um which is kind to the soil ecosystem um which is kind to the soil ecosystem um but also i think the predators and but also i think the predators and but also i think the predators and natural predators the caribbean beetles natural predators the caribbean beetles natural predators the caribbean beetles are building up in our systems we're are building up in our systems we're are building up in our systems we're trying to something i haven't gone into trying to something i haven't gone into trying to something i haven't gone into in this talk but we're trying to put in this talk but we're trying to put in this talk but we're trying to put um six meter wildflower strips um six meter wildflower strips um six meter wildflower strips in amongst our cropping actually down in amongst our cropping actually down in amongst our cropping actually down the middle of our fields as well the middle of our fields as well the middle of our fields as well to give hosts to beneficials and we're to give hosts to beneficials and we're to give hosts to beneficials and we're seeing benefits from that seeing benefits from that seeing benefits from that in slugs in uh in slugs in uh in slugs in uh chop straw situations so yeah it's chop straw situations so yeah it's chop straw situations so yeah it's getting getting getting better and better all the time but in better and better all the time but in better and better all the time but in the early years very problematic okay uh thanks very much julian i can okay uh thanks very much julian i can okay uh thanks very much julian i can see there's a there's a few other see there's a there's a few other see there's a there's a few other questions questions questions um i might uh go through as well so uh um i might uh go through as well so uh um i might uh go through as well so uh so gary asks a question so gary asks a question so gary asks a question um saying that what i said was that all um saying that what i said was that all um saying that what i said was that all of the of the of the stable carbon in the soil is microbial stable carbon in the soil is microbial stable carbon in the soil is microbial necromance but he points out that necromance but he points out that necromance but he points out that is this also the case with sort of is this also the case with sort of is this also the case with sort of really recalcitrant really recalcitrant really recalcitrant carbon like um hardwood tree um carbon like um hardwood tree um carbon like um hardwood tree um wood pieces um so i would say that wood pieces um so i would say that wood pieces um so i would say that yes even in forest systems the the yes even in forest systems the the yes even in forest systems the the long-term organic manic long-term organic manic long-term organic manic organic carbon in soil has still broken organic carbon in soil has still broken organic carbon in soil has still broken down is that i down is that i down is that i even those woody materials um break down even those woody materials um break down even those woody materials um break down so so so when we look at the average age of soil when we look at the average age of soil when we look at the average age of soil organic matter sometimes it comes back organic matter sometimes it comes back organic matter sometimes it comes back as being thousands of years old that as being thousands of years old that as being thousands of years old that isn't the original isn't the original isn't the original plant material that's that that's hung plant material that's that that's hung plant material that's that that's hung around um around um around um however in your comment you would also however in your comment you would also however in your comment you would also sort of mention the word water logging sort of mention the word water logging sort of mention the word water logging as well and i guess it's a as well and i guess it's a as well and i guess it's a it's just worth mentioning that um in in it's just worth mentioning that um in in it's just worth mentioning that um in in this talk i'm mostly talking about this talk i'm mostly talking about this talk i'm mostly talking about um sort of aerobic soil so there's a lot um sort of aerobic soil so there's a lot um sort of aerobic soil so there's a lot of generalizations you have to of generalizations you have to of generalizations you have to make of course we have very different make of course we have very different make of course we have very different ways in which carbon is ways in which carbon is ways in which carbon is installed for example in peatlands where installed for example in peatlands where installed for example in peatlands where that is indeed that is indeed that is indeed undecomposed um plant material undecomposed um plant material undecomposed um plant material um i do want to address a really good um i do want to address a really good um i do want to address a really good question by rebecca here question by rebecca here question by rebecca here who's asked how how might we encourage who's asked how how might we encourage who's asked how how might we encourage mineral associated organic matter mineral associated organic matter mineral associated organic matter instead of our instead of our instead of our aggregate or our particulate-bound stuff aggregate or our particulate-bound stuff aggregate or our particulate-bound stuff this is a this is a this is a fantastic question it's a bit of a grand fantastic question it's a bit of a grand fantastic question it's a bit of a grand challenge i think as well and there's challenge i think as well and there's challenge i think as well and there's um there's this i think there's very few um there's this i think there's very few um there's this i think there's very few sort of solutions sort of solutions sort of solutions um to how we might do this but there's um to how we might do this but there's um to how we might do this but there's some sort of off-the-wall ideas kind of some sort of off-the-wall ideas kind of some sort of off-the-wall ideas kind of thing so we might be able to thing so we might be able to thing so we might be able to to make amendments to our soils um to make amendments to our soils um to make amendments to our soils um of the minerals that we know that of the minerals that we know that of the minerals that we know that organic matter organic matter organic matter absorbs to we might even be able to um absorbs to we might even be able to um absorbs to we might even be able to um to bind those minerals onto to bind those minerals onto to bind those minerals onto surfaces that are very porous so things surfaces that are very porous so things surfaces that are very porous so things like iron oxides and things like that so like iron oxides and things like that so like iron oxides and things like that so there's there's there's i think there's a a lot of um i think there's a a lot of um i think there's a a lot of um a lot of things that we can try kind of a lot of things that we can try kind of a lot of things that we can try kind of thing but i don't think there's any thing but i don't think there's any thing but i don't think there's any off-the-shelf sort of off-the-shelf sort of off-the-shelf sort of methods for doing that just yet methods for doing that just yet methods for doing that just yet um one for julian i think and then we um one for julian i think and then we um one for julian i think and then we might make this the last one or the might make this the last one or the might make this the last one or the penultimate one penultimate one penultimate one um spraying with herbicide so is there a um spraying with herbicide so is there a um spraying with herbicide so is there a is there a solution is there a solution is there a solution um to i think growing cover crops um to i think growing cover crops um to i think growing cover crops while avoiding spraying herbicides while avoiding spraying herbicides while avoiding spraying herbicides incredibly difficult incredibly difficult incredibly difficult in particular if you've got black grass in particular if you've got black grass in particular if you've got black grass in the situation um in the situation um in the situation um incredibly difficult um i think incredibly difficult um i think incredibly difficult um i think ultimately ultimately ultimately if roundup glyphosate disappears from if roundup glyphosate disappears from if roundup glyphosate disappears from the system the system the system we will need to think about rotational we will need to think about rotational we will need to think about rotational ploughing ploughing ploughing coming back into farming systems um coming back into farming systems um coming back into farming systems um to maybe get rid of cover crop biomass to maybe get rid of cover crop biomass to maybe get rid of cover crop biomass um um um it's and i don't think a lot of people a it's and i don't think a lot of people a it's and i don't think a lot of people a lot of no tillers and lot of no tillers and lot of no tillers and regen egg farmers sort of view the plow regen egg farmers sort of view the plow regen egg farmers sort of view the plow as the devil's tool and i think if we've as the devil's tool and i think if we've as the devil's tool and i think if we've got a got a got a rotation that's majoring on building rotation that's majoring on building rotation that's majoring on building soil organic matter soil organic matter soil organic matter and doing everything else it possibly and doing everything else it possibly and doing everything else it possibly can can can i don't think plowing very occasionally i don't think plowing very occasionally i don't think plowing very occasionally is really is really is really the end of the world i mean there's the end of the world i mean there's the end of the world i mean there's plenty of experiments actually all plenty of experiments actually all plenty of experiments actually all planning's planning's planning's actually doing is just re depositing actually doing is just re depositing actually doing is just re depositing organic matter organic matter organic matter lower down the profile and actually it's lower down the profile and actually it's lower down the profile and actually it's not as bad as people think oxidizing not as bad as people think oxidizing not as bad as people think oxidizing organic matter organic matter organic matter but i think it's just farming is a but i think it's just farming is a but i think it's just farming is a compromise and compromise and compromise and herb the herb is we're tending to use herb the herb is we're tending to use herb the herb is we're tending to use herbicides at the moment but if we can't herbicides at the moment but if we can't herbicides at the moment but if we can't use herbicides use herbicides use herbicides we've got to think of other ways of we've got to think of other ways of we've got to think of other ways of doing things doing things doing things thank you julian um i'm just gonna thank you julian um i'm just gonna thank you julian um i'm just gonna answer one final question where someone answer one final question where someone answer one final question where someone highlights biochar as well it's highlights biochar as well it's highlights biochar as well it's something i haven't talked about something i haven't talked about something i haven't talked about but yeah biochar is paralyzed organic but yeah biochar is paralyzed organic but yeah biochar is paralyzed organic carbon so it is recalcitrant carbon so it is recalcitrant carbon so it is recalcitrant uh to decomposition honestly i think if uh to decomposition honestly i think if uh to decomposition honestly i think if we're trying to we're trying to we're trying to solve the climate change problem and solve the climate change problem and solve the climate change problem and store carbon in soils for long term store carbon in soils for long term store carbon in soils for long term so i think the only real viable way that so i think the only real viable way that so i think the only real viable way that we're going to be able to do that in the we're going to be able to do that in the we're going to be able to do that in the kind of quantities that makes a really kind of quantities that makes a really kind of quantities that makes a really big dent in the problem is is using dent in the problem is is using dent in the problem is is using something like biochar but something like biochar but something like biochar but at this point i think we're rapidly at this point i think we're rapidly at this point i think we're rapidly approaching one o'clock so i think i approaching one o'clock so i think i approaching one o'clock so i think i need to need to need to hand over to bruce to say goodbye to you hand over to bruce to say goodbye to you hand over to bruce to say goodbye to you and thanks for participating and thanks for participating and thanks for participating thank you very much tom um so yeah just thank you very much tom um so yeah just thank you very much tom um so yeah just finally on behalf of the the british finally on behalf of the the british finally on behalf of the the british society of source science society of source science society of source science i would like to express our thanks to i would like to express our thanks to i would like to express our thanks to tom and julian for coming along to tom and julian for coming along to tom and julian for coming along to present today present today present today uh and later fraud for for coordinating uh and later fraud for for coordinating uh and later fraud for for coordinating seasonal support i think it's been seasonal support i think it's been seasonal support i think it's been another great another great another great session with some some great insights session with some some great insights session with some some great insights and as ever more questions posed and as ever more questions posed and as ever more questions posed um so thank you all for attending uh um so thank you all for attending uh um so thank you all for attending uh when you leave you'll find a quick when you leave you'll find a quick when you leave you'll find a quick survey survey survey a quick feedback survey um which i hope a quick feedback survey um which i hope a quick feedback survey um which i hope you'll take time to complete you'll take time to complete you'll take time to complete and the recording of this video will be and the recording of this video will be and the recording of this video will be available after this event on our available after this event on our available after this event on our youtube channel for you to watch again youtube channel for you to watch again youtube channel for you to watch again uh so uh so uh so yes finally please keep an eye out on yes finally please keep an eye out on yes finally please keep an eye out on our website for forthcoming events and our website for forthcoming events and our website for forthcoming events and we really do look forward to we really do look forward to we really do look forward to seeing you again on wednesday the 3rd of seeing you again on wednesday the 3rd of seeing you again on wednesday the 3rd of march for zoom into soil march for zoom into soil march for zoom into soil um about soil functions which is now um about soil functions which is now um about soil functions which is now open for registration open for registration open for registration and so with that thank you again and goodbye
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Zoom into Soil: Peatlands of Scotland

2026-05-29T14:08:48Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Zoom into Soil: Peatlands of Scotland
| Producteur = British Society of Soil Science
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_qADyI6x8vxc.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2022-04-05
| Durée = 58 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qADyI6x8vxc
| Intervenants 0 = Andrew McBride
| Intervenants 1 = Dr Rebekka Artz
| Mots-clés = soil, soils, science, environment, geography, geology, earth science, soil science, ecology
}}

Welcome to the Zoom into Soil: Peatlands of Scotland video from the British Society of Soil Science.

Supported by Visit Britain and Nature Scot, we welcome Andrew McBride and Dr Rebekka Artz as they present their expert knowledge on the topic of Scottish peat.

With strong Government backing, peatland restoration in Scotland has made major progress in the last decade. In his presentation 'Peatland Restoration in Scotland - Lessons to learn from the peat face', Andrew considers what we can learn from this experience and with Climate Change impacts increasing, what we can do to respond more quickly in the future.

Peatlands across the UK currently release around 17.6 Mt CO2e per year (2019 data) instead of functioning as the net carbon sinks they could be, if all areas were in good ecological condition. The realisation of the scale of the problem has led to a significant increase in both public and private funding for peatland restoration efforts over the past decade. Investment is expected to ramp up rapidly in this current decade, the global UN Decade on Restoration. In her presentation 'Optimising peatland restoration to achieve net zero', Dr Rebekka Artz summarises the state of our knowledge on the emissions reductions that peatland restoration brings, in the short to medium term after management interventions and in terms of the likely stability of such emissions reductions in the light of climate change.

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{{Transcription
| transcription = good afternoon everyone and welcome to good afternoon everyone and welcome to good afternoon everyone and welcome to the webinar i'm bruce sells president of the webinar i'm bruce sells president of the webinar i'm bruce sells president of the british society of saw science and the british society of saw science and the british society of saw science and i'm really delighted to welcome you to i'm really delighted to welcome you to i'm really delighted to welcome you to our second webinar of this year our second webinar of this year our second webinar of this year before i welcome our panelists i would before i welcome our panelists i would before i welcome our panelists i would like to introduce the the british like to introduce the the british like to introduce the the british society of soil science as hosts of society of soil science as hosts of society of soil science as hosts of today's webinar we're an established today's webinar we're an established today's webinar we're an established international membership organization international membership organization international membership organization and a charity committed to the study of and a charity committed to the study of and a charity committed to the study of soil in its widest aspects we bring soil in its widest aspects we bring soil in its widest aspects we bring together those working within academia together those working within academia together those working within academia and have a growing membership amongst and have a growing membership amongst and have a growing membership amongst practitioners implementing soil science practitioners implementing soil science practitioners implementing soil science in industry in industry in industry and those with a keen interest in soils and those with a keen interest in soils and those with a keen interest in soils today's event is supported by visit today's event is supported by visit today's event is supported by visit britain and nature scott who are both britain and nature scott who are both britain and nature scott who are both also supporting the world congress of also supporting the world congress of also supporting the world congress of soil science um this year in 2022 soil science um this year in 2022 soil science um this year in 2022 for those who may not be aware the for those who may not be aware the for those who may not be aware the congress is the leading international congress is the leading international congress is the leading international soil science conference it's held every soil science conference it's held every soil science conference it's held every four years in different countries and four years in different countries and four years in different countries and can be attended by over 3 000 soil can be attended by over 3 000 soil can be attended by over 3 000 soil scientists from around the globe scientists from around the globe scientists from around the globe the next congress will be held from the the next congress will be held from the the next congress will be held from the 31st of july to the 5th of august this 31st of july to the 5th of august this 31st of july to the 5th of august this year in glasgow and i'm really pleased year in glasgow and i'm really pleased year in glasgow and i'm really pleased that that it's being organized by the that that it's being organized by the that that it's being organized by the british society of saw science on behalf british society of saw science on behalf british society of saw science on behalf of the international union of soil of the international union of soil of the international union of soil sciences sciences sciences and if you're interested have a look at and if you're interested have a look at and if you're interested have a look at our website and you can register through our website and you can register through our website and you can register through through the congress website as well through the congress website as well through the congress website as well nature scott is scotland's nature agency nature scott is scotland's nature agency nature scott is scotland's nature agency and work to improve the natural and work to improve the natural and work to improve the natural environment in scotland and inspire environment in scotland and inspire environment in scotland and inspire everyone to care more about it so that everyone to care more about it so that everyone to care more about it so that all nature in scotland is maintained all nature in scotland is maintained all nature in scotland is maintained enhanced and brings us those benefits enhanced and brings us those benefits enhanced and brings us those benefits that we get from it that we get from it that we get from it nature scott delivered an amazing nature scott delivered an amazing nature scott delivered an amazing exhibition stand at cobb 26 last year exhibition stand at cobb 26 last year exhibition stand at cobb 26 last year where they highlighted the the diversity where they highlighted the the diversity where they highlighted the the diversity of the scottish landscape which showed of the scottish landscape which showed of the scottish landscape which showed the various soil and plant types found the various soil and plant types found the various soil and plant types found throughout scotland and we're really throughout scotland and we're really throughout scotland and we're really thrilled that nature scott will be thrilled that nature scott will be thrilled that nature scott will be delivering the same exhibition at the delivering the same exhibition at the delivering the same exhibition at the world congress all science later this world congress all science later this world congress all science later this year year year and will provide delegates with an and will provide delegates with an and will provide delegates with an opportunity to ask their experts more opportunity to ask their experts more opportunity to ask their experts more about about about scottish diversity scottish diversity scottish diversity so just before we begin some basic so just before we begin some basic so just before we begin some basic housekeeping as there are so many of you housekeeping as there are so many of you housekeeping as there are so many of you here today um here today um here today um all your microphones have been muted all your microphones have been muted all your microphones have been muted we'll be taking questions at the end of we'll be taking questions at the end of we'll be taking questions at the end of both presentations um both presentations um both presentations um and i've got a colleague on the call as and i've got a colleague on the call as and i've got a colleague on the call as well who's going to monitor these for us well who's going to monitor these for us well who's going to monitor these for us so if you've got any questions if you so if you've got any questions if you so if you've got any questions if you can please submit those by 1250 so we can please submit those by 1250 so we can please submit those by 1250 so we can get through as many as we can sorry so pretty much nature scott sorry sorry so pretty much nature scott sorry sorry so pretty much nature scott sorry i'm delighted to welcome dr patricio i'm delighted to welcome dr patricio i'm delighted to welcome dr patricio bruno who is the soil science advisor bruno who is the soil science advisor bruno who is the soil science advisor for nature scott will give us a brief for nature scott will give us a brief for nature scott will give us a brief introduction to scotland's introduction to scotland's introduction to scotland's nature agency uh so thank you for nature agency uh so thank you for nature agency uh so thank you for joining us patricia and over to you joining us patricia and over to you joining us patricia and over to you yeah thank you very much yeah thank you very much yeah thank you very much bruce i think you've already got quite a bruce i think you've already got quite a bruce i think you've already got quite a lot of the information i wanted to share lot of the information i wanted to share lot of the information i wanted to share with the audience so um i've been with the audience so um i've been with the audience so um i've been working for nature scott for a very long working for nature scott for a very long working for nature scott for a very long time as a sole advisor our nature scott time as a sole advisor our nature scott time as a sole advisor our nature scott as you were saying is a conservation as you were saying is a conservation as you were saying is a conservation agency with over 30 years experience agency with over 30 years experience agency with over 30 years experience advising scottish government advising scottish government advising scottish government and we work to enhance our natural and we work to enhance our natural and we work to enhance our natural environment and inspire people to care about what we're doing to care about what we're doing to care about what we're doing and what is very clear now is that soil and what is very clear now is that soil and what is very clear now is that soil is driving nature on its ability to is driving nature on its ability to is driving nature on its ability to adapt and respond to climate change and adapt and respond to climate change and adapt and respond to climate change and this is one of the reason why we decided this is one of the reason why we decided this is one of the reason why we decided to sponsor the conference in august to sponsor the conference in august to sponsor the conference in august because we know with the launch of our because we know with the launch of our because we know with the launch of our new corporate strategy yesterday we have new corporate strategy yesterday we have new corporate strategy yesterday we have even a more uh prominent role i think in even a more uh prominent role i think in even a more uh prominent role i think in trying to protect and restore and value trying to protect and restore and value trying to protect and restore and value nature nature nature and recognizing that seoul is at the and recognizing that seoul is at the and recognizing that seoul is at the heart of it heart of it heart of it so what are we going to do for the world so what are we going to do for the world so what are we going to do for the world conference um so it's the main the main conference um so it's the main the main conference um so it's the main the main aspect of what we're going to do is aspect of what we're going to do is aspect of what we're going to do is related to an exhibition that we related to an exhibition that we related to an exhibition that we presented at cop 26 last year which is presented at cop 26 last year which is presented at cop 26 last year which is called nature called nature called nature is climate and climate is nature is climate and climate is nature is climate and climate is nature and we would use this as an opportunity and we would use this as an opportunity and we would use this as an opportunity to to to explain and promote nature-based explain and promote nature-based explain and promote nature-based solutions that benefit both nature and solutions that benefit both nature and solutions that benefit both nature and people people people and i'm very delighted with the and i'm very delighted with the and i'm very delighted with the presentation we're having today about presentation we're having today about presentation we're having today about the peatland of scotland because the peatland of scotland because the peatland of scotland because peatland restoration is one of the key peatland restoration is one of the key peatland restoration is one of the key activities that nature scott is um activities that nature scott is um activities that nature scott is um managing and for us uh the challenge in managing and for us uh the challenge in managing and for us uh the challenge in scotland is to try to achieve a scotland is to try to achieve a scotland is to try to achieve a restoration of um or peatland um restoration of um or peatland um restoration of um or peatland um and um on i'm going to pass them now to and um on i'm going to pass them now to and um on i'm going to pass them now to um um um broth to introduce the speakers that are broth to introduce the speakers that are broth to introduce the speakers that are going to give you um going to give you um going to give you um a much better detail about a much better detail about a much better detail about what is happening in scotland in what is happening in scotland in what is happening in scotland in relation to peatland restoration which relation to peatland restoration which relation to peatland restoration which is one of the um nature-based solutions is one of the um nature-based solutions is one of the um nature-based solutions that we're promoting sorry um how do i stop sharing sorry um how do i stop sharing sorry um how do i stop sharing thank thank you patricia again apologies thank thank you patricia again apologies thank thank you patricia again apologies for my my confusion no no exactly for my my confusion no no exactly for my my confusion no no exactly what you were um what you were um what you were um uh going to say um and and i'm really uh going to say um and and i'm really uh going to say um and and i'm really really grateful for it for nature's got really grateful for it for nature's got really grateful for it for nature's got support for for our events support for for our events support for for our events on your presence of the world congress on your presence of the world congress on your presence of the world congress as well um so just coming back to some as well um so just coming back to some as well um so just coming back to some of the um sort of uh the housekeeping of the um sort of uh the housekeeping of the um sort of uh the housekeeping i've covered the first uh two points um i've covered the first uh two points um i've covered the first uh two points um today's presentation has also been today's presentation has also been today's presentation has also been awarded basis and nroso cpd points so if awarded basis and nroso cpd points so if awarded basis and nroso cpd points so if you're registered with either of those you're registered with either of those you're registered with either of those bodies bodies bodies please contact us directly um after the please contact us directly um after the please contact us directly um after the event um and just finally then uh please event um and just finally then uh please event um and just finally then uh please be aware that um we are recording be aware that um we are recording be aware that um we are recording today's presentation today's presentation today's presentation so moving on to the the main content and so moving on to the the main content and so moving on to the the main content and i would now like to introduce our first i would now like to introduce our first i would now like to introduce our first presenter andrew mcbride presenter andrew mcbride presenter andrew mcbride andrew has worked for over 30 years in andrew has worked for over 30 years in andrew has worked for over 30 years in nature conservation in scotland whilst nature conservation in scotland whilst nature conservation in scotland whilst graduating from edinburgh he managed graduating from edinburgh he managed graduating from edinburgh he managed three nature reserves and went on to run three nature reserves and went on to run three nature reserves and went on to run his own environmental management his own environmental management his own environmental management consultancy for nine years consultancy for nine years consultancy for nine years looking for a new challenge he joined looking for a new challenge he joined looking for a new challenge he joined nature scott as their lowland wetland nature scott as their lowland wetland nature scott as their lowland wetland ecologist providing advice covering ecologist providing advice covering ecologist providing advice covering planning applications designated site planning applications designated site planning applications designated site monitoring wetland management and monitoring wetland management and monitoring wetland management and training and represented scotland on training and represented scotland on training and represented scotland on several national wetland biodiversity several national wetland biodiversity several national wetland biodiversity and water-based groups and water-based groups and water-based groups as well as offering policy advice on as well as offering policy advice on as well as offering policy advice on peat extraction bulk restoration climate peat extraction bulk restoration climate peat extraction bulk restoration climate change natural flood management diffuse change natural flood management diffuse change natural flood management diffuse pollution and forestry on peatlands pollution and forestry on peatlands pollution and forestry on peatlands for the last nine years andrew has for the last nine years andrew has for the last nine years andrew has managed the award-winning peatland managed the award-winning peatland managed the award-winning peatland action project delivering restoration to action project delivering restoration to action project delivering restoration to scotland's peatlands scotland's peatlands scotland's peatlands andrew recently set up land and habitats andrew recently set up land and habitats andrew recently set up land and habitats an environmental consultancy providing an environmental consultancy providing an environmental consultancy providing advice and assistance to companies and advice and assistance to companies and advice and assistance to companies and projects wishing to invest in a natural projects wishing to invest in a natural projects wishing to invest in a natural environment environment environment andrew has a wide range of land andrew has a wide range of land andrew has a wide range of land management experience covering most management experience covering most management experience covering most scottish habitats but his primary focus scottish habitats but his primary focus scottish habitats but his primary focus is on wetlands is on wetlands is on wetlands key to his work is getting practical key to his work is getting practical key to his work is getting practical information out to those who need it information out to those who need it information out to those who need it and as chief editor he produced the fen and as chief editor he produced the fen and as chief editor he produced the fen management handbook and has made many management handbook and has made many management handbook and has made many short videos and assisted with practical short videos and assisted with practical short videos and assisted with practical management technical and policy guidance management technical and policy guidance management technical and policy guidance documents so over to you andrew thank you very much bruce uh am i thank you very much bruce uh am i thank you very much bruce uh am i sharing my screen yet sharing my screen yet sharing my screen yet no no no not yet yeah we can see that andrew thank you yeah we can see that andrew thank you yeah we can see that andrew thank you you can yeah oh yeah you can see my you can yeah oh yeah you can see my you can yeah oh yeah you can see my screen screen screen fine okay thanks very much uh good fine okay thanks very much uh good fine okay thanks very much uh good afternoon everyone thank you for afternoon everyone thank you for afternoon everyone thank you for inviting inviting me along inviting inviting me along inviting inviting me along uh i'm going to talk a bit about what uh i'm going to talk a bit about what uh i'm going to talk a bit about what we've probably learned in scotland over we've probably learned in scotland over we've probably learned in scotland over the last 30 years with pete and the last 30 years with pete and the last 30 years with pete and restoration um there's a lot to learn restoration um there's a lot to learn restoration um there's a lot to learn and 20 minutes probably wouldn't won't and 20 minutes probably wouldn't won't and 20 minutes probably wouldn't won't cover it at all but i'll try and keep to cover it at all but i'll try and keep to cover it at all but i'll try and keep to the sort of key points the things we've the sort of key points the things we've the sort of key points the things we've actually learned and what we've actually actually learned and what we've actually actually learned and what we've actually been doing been doing been doing uh you'll see that my title of my um uh you'll see that my title of my um uh you'll see that my title of my um presentation is lesson presentation is lesson presentation is lesson to learn from peak face and it is not to learn from peak face and it is not to learn from peak face and it is not lessons learned because unfortunately lessons learned because unfortunately lessons learned because unfortunately history suggests that often we don't history suggests that often we don't history suggests that often we don't learn those but hopefully i'm always learn those but hopefully i'm always learn those but hopefully i'm always hopeful that we can actually learn from hopeful that we can actually learn from hopeful that we can actually learn from the past because there's a lot to learn the past because there's a lot to learn the past because there's a lot to learn from that um for the last two hundred eight years um for the last two hundred eight years um for the last two hundred eight years we've done that down this to actually um we've done that down this to actually um we've done that down this to actually um drain peatlands in this case from the drain peatlands in this case from the drain peatlands in this case from the 18th century 18th century 18th century late 18th century um you can see late 18th century um you can see late 18th century um you can see ditches were dark and not only ditches ditches were dark and not only ditches ditches were dark and not only ditches were dug ball holes were put into the were dug ball holes were put into the were dug ball holes were put into the bottom of those bottom of those bottom of those ditches to actually go through the the ditches to actually go through the the ditches to actually go through the the clays that were below into its more clays that were below into its more clays that were below into its more porous material to actually drain porous material to actually drain porous material to actually drain the bogs the bogs the bogs um i don't know whether this actually um i don't know whether this actually um i don't know whether this actually worked um it doesn't worked um it doesn't worked um it doesn't that there's no detail of where it was that there's no detail of where it was that there's no detail of where it was actually done but the idea was there and actually done but the idea was there and actually done but the idea was there and having seen mining sites under bogs i having seen mining sites under bogs i having seen mining sites under bogs i don't think it probably actually would don't think it probably actually would don't think it probably actually would work but peatlands are tremendously work but peatlands are tremendously work but peatlands are tremendously resistant and often surprising what you resistant and often surprising what you resistant and often surprising what you actually come across in the field when actually come across in the field when actually come across in the field when you look at them so i think we've done you look at them so i think we've done you look at them so i think we've done our damnedest to actually our damnedest to actually our damnedest to actually to try and drain bogs but uh a lot a lot to try and drain bogs but uh a lot a lot to try and drain bogs but uh a lot a lot of cases bugs want to actually continue back in 19 we started in a restoration back in 19 we started in a restoration back in 19 we started in a restoration in the 1980s and 1990s in the 1980s and 1990s in the 1980s and 1990s in scotland and in that time 47 000 in scotland and in that time 47 000 in scotland and in that time 47 000 hectares of been benefited from hectares of been benefited from hectares of been benefited from restoration measures restoration measures restoration measures that's not to say that actually those that's not to say that actually those that's not to say that actually those restoration measures were totally restoration measures were totally restoration measures were totally effective they were often involved effective they were often involved effective they were often involved minimal intervention and were mainly minimal intervention and were mainly minimal intervention and were mainly management changes which meant either management changes which meant either management changes which meant either fencing out livestock or reducing fencing out livestock or reducing fencing out livestock or reducing livestock on on them and i think one of livestock on on them and i think one of livestock on on them and i think one of the first lessons that i learned was the first lessons that i learned was the first lessons that i learned was removing livestock from beet bogs was removing livestock from beet bogs was removing livestock from beet bogs was not necessarily the best way forward it not necessarily the best way forward it not necessarily the best way forward it was very um was very um was very um a responsive to overstocking it wasn't a responsive to overstocking it wasn't a responsive to overstocking it wasn't actually responsive to what the actual actually responsive to what the actual actually responsive to what the actual peatlands needed peatlands needed peatlands needed um the work as i say was very low um the work as i say was very low um the work as i say was very low intervention no hard hats reflective intervention no hard hats reflective intervention no hard hats reflective jackets or gloves it was just a case of jackets or gloves it was just a case of jackets or gloves it was just a case of pushing in corrugated sheets or trying pushing in corrugated sheets or trying pushing in corrugated sheets or trying to make dams out of bits of wood and to make dams out of bits of wood and to make dams out of bits of wood and different things like that there was no different things like that there was no different things like that there was no money available it was always down the money available it was always down the money available it was always down the back of the sofa under spend and that back of the sofa under spend and that back of the sofa under spend and that type of thing so we've come type of thing so we've come type of thing so we've come quite a long way um with that now quite a long way um with that now quite a long way um with that now and it was it was a good start but it and it was it was a good start but it and it was it was a good start but it didn't actually make a big difference to didn't actually make a big difference to didn't actually make a big difference to the boggs the boggs the boggs moving on into more recent years moving on into more recent years moving on into more recent years upscaled massively in scotland and uh upscaled massively in scotland and uh upscaled massively in scotland and uh restaurantation has taken on a different restaurantation has taken on a different restaurantation has taken on a different format with big machines with big format with big machines with big format with big machines with big machines come the hard hats and the machines come the hard hats and the machines come the hard hats and the reflective reflective reflective jackets and a lot of this is well most jackets and a lot of this is well most jackets and a lot of this is well most of this is actually down to of this is actually down to of this is actually down to scottish government policy and also the scottish government policy and also the scottish government policy and also the advent of peatland action as well back advent of peatland action as well back advent of peatland action as well back in 2012 in 2012 in 2012 just to give some idea of the spread of just to give some idea of the spread of just to give some idea of the spread of projects from peatland action the map projects from peatland action the map projects from peatland action the map shows the distribution this map is is shows the distribution this map is is shows the distribution this map is is back in 2020 so there's a lot more back in 2020 so there's a lot more back in 2020 so there's a lot more projects that the projects that the projects that the the green gloves are probably more the green gloves are probably more the green gloves are probably more coalesced now because projects build on coalesced now because projects build on coalesced now because projects build on projects and probably in the same sort projects and probably in the same sort projects and probably in the same sort of places but a lot of work was of places but a lot of work was of places but a lot of work was delivered in that time delivered in that time delivered in that time and that is mainly in response to policy and that is mainly in response to policy and that is mainly in response to policy changes and particularly climate change changes and particularly climate change changes and particularly climate change policies really bringing in peatland policies really bringing in peatland policies really bringing in peatland restoration as part of that package for restoration as part of that package for restoration as part of that package for land use but also part of the package land use but also part of the package land use but also part of the package for for for climate change mitigation climate change mitigation climate change mitigation and adaption and adaption and adaption and that and that and that fortunately brought money and had had fortunately brought money and had had fortunately brought money and had had consequences from from that aspect of it consequences from from that aspect of it consequences from from that aspect of it so we've we've gone a long way in so we've we've gone a long way in so we've we've gone a long way in particular in the last 10 years um and particular in the last 10 years um and particular in the last 10 years um and we've gained a lot of experience in the we've gained a lot of experience in the we've gained a lot of experience in the time since the 1980s as well time since the 1980s as well time since the 1980s as well one of the key lessons about people one of the key lessons about people one of the key lessons about people restoration is that it is all about restoration is that it is all about restoration is that it is all about people people people um the peatlands aspect of it is um the peatlands aspect of it is um the peatlands aspect of it is actually relatively easy relatively actually relatively easy relatively actually relatively easy relatively simple the people aspect of it is simple the people aspect of it is simple the people aspect of it is probably the most time consuming and the probably the most time consuming and the probably the most time consuming and the hardest part in the restoration hardest part in the restoration hardest part in the restoration and particularly with policy is and particularly with policy is and particularly with policy is helping people understand what the helping people understand what the helping people understand what the problem is we're talking about degraded problem is we're talking about degraded problem is we're talking about degraded peatlands which are often remote and peatlands which are often remote and peatlands which are often remote and most people don't actually ever see most people don't actually ever see most people don't actually ever see people in a degraded condition people in a degraded condition people in a degraded condition so with policy makers so with policy makers so with policy makers what we've done in the lessons we've what we've done in the lessons we've what we've done in the lessons we've learned there it's really important to learned there it's really important to learned there it's really important to actually get them out on site and look actually get them out on site and look actually get them out on site and look at that look at the issues if that means at that look at the issues if that means at that look at the issues if that means dragging chairs and tables across dragging chairs and tables across dragging chairs and tables across moorland and tierne's and goodness knows moorland and tierne's and goodness knows moorland and tierne's and goodness knows what that's what you have to do what that's what you have to do what that's what you have to do because you've got to get people out because you've got to get people out because you've got to get people out there you probably need to buy a few there you probably need to buy a few there you probably need to buy a few pairs of wellingtons as well pairs of wellingtons as well pairs of wellingtons as well that makes a big difference to whatever that makes a big difference to whatever that makes a big difference to whatever you can do if you haven't got that you can do if you haven't got that you can do if you haven't got that policy right that policy setting and the policy right that policy setting and the policy right that policy setting and the finance that goes behind that policy finance that goes behind that policy finance that goes behind that policy the rest of it is just not going to the rest of it is just not going to the rest of it is just not going to happen at all happen at all happen at all talking about policy though it's it's talking about policy though it's it's talking about policy though it's it's actually also about integrated policy actually also about integrated policy actually also about integrated policy and i think that's one of the hardest and i think that's one of the hardest and i think that's one of the hardest things that to actually resolve we often things that to actually resolve we often things that to actually resolve we often make policies in isolation and peatland make policies in isolation and peatland make policies in isolation and peatland policy is a good example of that it policy is a good example of that it policy is a good example of that it needs to be actually integrated with needs to be actually integrated with needs to be actually integrated with lots of different policies quite strange lots of different policies quite strange lots of different policies quite strange projects housing policy for example projects housing policy for example projects housing policy for example housing in in rural communities is very housing in in rural communities is very housing in in rural communities is very difficult for difficult for difficult for people to actually live and work in the people to actually live and work in the people to actually live and work in the in the area where they're working and in the area where they're working and in the area where they're working and those sort of policies need to be more those sort of policies need to be more those sort of policies need to be more integrated to the demand for housing for integrated to the demand for housing for integrated to the demand for housing for what are actually key workers in that what are actually key workers in that what are actually key workers in that particular circumstance particular circumstance particular circumstance skills base we've started from a very skills base we've started from a very skills base we've started from a very quite low skill space in terms of quite low skill space in terms of quite low skill space in terms of numbers there's a lot of skill that was numbers there's a lot of skill that was numbers there's a lot of skill that was there that people were doing there that people were doing there that people were doing the work but actually it's actually the work but actually it's actually the work but actually it's actually scaling that up massively so you scaling that up massively so you scaling that up massively so you actually get a lot of restoration done actually get a lot of restoration done actually get a lot of restoration done relatively quickly relatively quickly relatively quickly and the other thing with policy is and the other thing with policy is and the other thing with policy is actually stretching the timeliness actually stretching the timeliness actually stretching the timeliness rather than short term you really need rather than short term you really need rather than short term you really need to have people thinking in long term and to have people thinking in long term and to have people thinking in long term and it's interesting i've said for quite a it's interesting i've said for quite a it's interesting i've said for quite a long time to people we're basically long time to people we're basically long time to people we're basically restoring our peatlands so people in the restoring our peatlands so people in the restoring our peatlands so people in the future will appreciate the fact we've future will appreciate the fact we've future will appreciate the fact we've we've saved the peatlands but how do we we've saved the peatlands but how do we we've saved the peatlands but how do we know what they're actually going to do know what they're actually going to do know what they're actually going to do with them they probably may need to burn with them they probably may need to burn with them they probably may need to burn them them them and if you look at fuel prices going up and if you look at fuel prices going up and if you look at fuel prices going up i can see an increase in the amount of i can see an increase in the amount of i can see an increase in the amount of peat harvesting actually going on for peat harvesting actually going on for peat harvesting actually going on for burning particularly on the islands burning particularly on the islands burning particularly on the islands which rely on oil unless something is which rely on oil unless something is which rely on oil unless something is actually done to actually encourage more actually done to actually encourage more actually done to actually encourage more electricity use particularly from electricity use particularly from electricity use particularly from renewable energy sources but it is renewable energy sources but it is renewable energy sources but it is relatively easy now to go and dig peats relatively easy now to go and dig peats relatively easy now to go and dig peats with a machine with a machine with a machine not have to worry about midges all these not have to worry about midges all these not have to worry about midges all these other factors rain all these sort of other factors rain all these sort of other factors rain all these sort of things have taken out of the equation so things have taken out of the equation so things have taken out of the equation so it's not just a case of actually the it's not just a case of actually the it's not just a case of actually the policy we have at the moment what's policy we have at the moment what's policy we have at the moment what's happening we need a lot more sort of happening we need a lot more sort of happening we need a lot more sort of thinking ahead thinking ahead thinking ahead on the actual restoration practice the on the actual restoration practice the on the actual restoration practice the key thing with restoring peatlands is key thing with restoring peatlands is key thing with restoring peatlands is actually getting a grip of the water and actually getting a grip of the water and actually getting a grip of the water and what gets the grip of the water on a what gets the grip of the water on a what gets the grip of the water on a peatland is the sphagnum moss peatland is the sphagnum moss peatland is the sphagnum moss people people people do not like you calling it a sponge but do not like you calling it a sponge but do not like you calling it a sponge but it is a sponge and it is it is a it is a sponge and it is it is a it is a sponge and it is it is a sphagnum moss that actually keeps the sphagnum moss that actually keeps the sphagnum moss that actually keeps the water on peatland particularly on water on peatland particularly on water on peatland particularly on degraded peatland and kickstarts it into degraded peatland and kickstarts it into degraded peatland and kickstarts it into the next process where it becomes a more the next process where it becomes a more the next process where it becomes a more active peatland active peatland active peatland and and and the comparison with a sponge is a valid the comparison with a sponge is a valid the comparison with a sponge is a valid one i feel because a sponge yes it holds one i feel because a sponge yes it holds one i feel because a sponge yes it holds water and then it will only hold so much water and then it will only hold so much water and then it will only hold so much water sphagnum moss is the same it will water sphagnum moss is the same it will water sphagnum moss is the same it will only hold a certain amount of water but only hold a certain amount of water but only hold a certain amount of water but it delays that flow of water and it it delays that flow of water and it it delays that flow of water and it holds 20 times its dry weight in water holds 20 times its dry weight in water holds 20 times its dry weight in water which a sponge is about six or seven which a sponge is about six or seven which a sponge is about six or seven times so there are differences but it times so there are differences but it times so there are differences but it really is key to everything that you do really is key to everything that you do really is key to everything that you do in restoration you've got to be thinking in restoration you've got to be thinking in restoration you've got to be thinking how are we going to get sphagram to grow how are we going to get sphagram to grow how are we going to get sphagram to grow here and how we're going to get to here and how we're going to get to here and how we're going to get to proliferate this is a good example of this is a good example of this is a good example of from about 31 25 years ago actually of from about 31 25 years ago actually of from about 31 25 years ago actually of what we actually used to do with what we actually used to do with what we actually used to do with blocking ditches you can see the ditch blocking ditches you can see the ditch blocking ditches you can see the ditch on the left that's before it was blocked on the left that's before it was blocked on the left that's before it was blocked and then it was blocked using plastic and then it was blocked using plastic and then it was blocked using plastic piling piling piling we reduced the amount of plastic piling we reduced the amount of plastic piling we reduced the amount of plastic piling we used now um to specific for specific we used now um to specific for specific we used now um to specific for specific purposes um but what we did at that time purposes um but what we did at that time purposes um but what we did at that time we were slightly scared about holding we were slightly scared about holding we were slightly scared about holding too much water and we tended to actually too much water and we tended to actually too much water and we tended to actually just just just hold water up to a certain level and it hold water up to a certain level and it hold water up to a certain level and it never got that the surfaces became wet never got that the surfaces became wet never got that the surfaces became wet and the the wetness just sort of was and the the wetness just sort of was and the the wetness just sort of was focused around the ditches focused around the ditches focused around the ditches what we actually do now is spread the what we actually do now is spread the what we actually do now is spread the water right from the top of that ditch water right from the top of that ditch water right from the top of that ditch um that you're actually seeing there um that you're actually seeing there um that you're actually seeing there right across the whole area and that way right across the whole area and that way right across the whole area and that way you actually are providing conditions you actually are providing conditions you actually are providing conditions for the swag and moss not just around for the swag and moss not just around for the swag and moss not just around the ditch but you're actually providing the ditch but you're actually providing the ditch but you're actually providing those conditions over a much larger area those conditions over a much larger area those conditions over a much larger area you're going to get restoration much you're going to get restoration much you're going to get restoration much quicker and from a climate point of view quicker and from a climate point of view quicker and from a climate point of view getting carbon sequestration and also getting carbon sequestration and also getting carbon sequestration and also actually sealing the surface up with um actually sealing the surface up with um actually sealing the surface up with um a good cover of sphagnum moss as well a good cover of sphagnum moss as well a good cover of sphagnum moss as well i'm a great advocate of learning by i'm a great advocate of learning by i'm a great advocate of learning by doing and doing and doing and a lot of what we did in peatland action a lot of what we did in peatland action a lot of what we did in peatland action is it's just going out there and trying is it's just going out there and trying is it's just going out there and trying different things if you don't try you'll different things if you don't try you'll different things if you don't try you'll never actually find out never actually find out never actually find out very often if you very often if you very often if you have to wait till it's being a full have to wait till it's being a full have to wait till it's being a full experiment or whatever such actually had experiment or whatever such actually had experiment or whatever such actually had to be done all the research has actually to be done all the research has actually to be done all the research has actually done it's getting too late now we need done it's getting too late now we need done it's getting too late now we need to actually respond quickly this is an to actually respond quickly this is an to actually respond quickly this is an example example example a place called blood moss down in a place called blood moss down in a place called blood moss down in dumfries and galloway on forest land dumfries and galloway on forest land dumfries and galloway on forest land scotland land scotland land scotland land and they and they and they did some of the first motion dream did some of the first motion dream did some of the first motion dream motion whole tree mulching on a bog motion whole tree mulching on a bog motion whole tree mulching on a bog there was a raised bog there was a raised bog there was a raised bog and when you went to the site after it and when you went to the site after it and when you went to the site after it had been mulched it was just phenomenal had been mulched it was just phenomenal had been mulched it was just phenomenal it was just horrendous it was just mulch it was just horrendous it was just mulch it was just horrendous it was just mulch a thick layer of mulch everywhere no a thick layer of mulch everywhere no a thick layer of mulch everywhere no plants nothing plants nothing plants nothing and about three years later the slide on and about three years later the slide on and about three years later the slide on the left things had started to grow the left things had started to grow the left things had started to grow where the tracks had sunk in you would where the tracks had sunk in you would where the tracks had sunk in you would actually get sphagnum moss coming into actually get sphagnum moss coming into actually get sphagnum moss coming into those pools those pools those pools i went back there about six years ago i went back there about six years ago i went back there about six years ago and that's what you see is on the right and that's what you see is on the right and that's what you see is on the right hand side you've still got all the chips hand side you've still got all the chips hand side you've still got all the chips and the bits of wood in the ditches you and the bits of wood in the ditches you and the bits of wood in the ditches you can see the waters quite close to the can see the waters quite close to the can see the waters quite close to the surface there but the sphagnum cover is surface there but the sphagnum cover is surface there but the sphagnum cover is just completely over the whole of the just completely over the whole of the just completely over the whole of the moss and you've actually got an active moss and you've actually got an active moss and you've actually got an active bog reforming bog reforming bog reforming and and and on the face of it if you looked at what on the face of it if you looked at what on the face of it if you looked at what we saw beginning you would think this is we saw beginning you would think this is we saw beginning you would think this is not going to be a success and it is not going to be a success and it is not going to be a success and it is actually just by going into it you can actually just by going into it you can actually just by going into it you can actually get relatively quick results or actually get relatively quick results or actually get relatively quick results or an idea of what actually actually is an idea of what actually actually is an idea of what actually actually is going to happen another lesson that i've learned is also another lesson that i've learned is also another lesson that i've learned is also about is going heavy and going now about is going heavy and going now about is going heavy and going now if you think about it a lot of the the if you think about it a lot of the the if you think about it a lot of the the peatlands that we have were originally peatlands that we have were originally peatlands that we have were originally um drained using heavy machinery and um drained using heavy machinery and um drained using heavy machinery and when they were they were drained when they were they were drained when they were they were drained initially they probably looked an initially they probably looked an initially they probably looked an absolute mess we have to probably go in absolute mess we have to probably go in absolute mess we have to probably go in and do much the same and you will lose and do much the same and you will lose and do much the same and you will lose certain biodiversity but we've got good certain biodiversity but we've got good certain biodiversity but we've got good techniques now we've got good operators techniques now we've got good operators techniques now we've got good operators and we've got better machines as well and we've got better machines as well and we've got better machines as well with much lower ground pressure with much lower ground pressure with much lower ground pressure and it's really important to kickstart and it's really important to kickstart and it's really important to kickstart peatlands off we fiddled around at the peatlands off we fiddled around at the peatlands off we fiddled around at the edges for far too long on them rather edges for far too long on them rather edges for far too long on them rather than actually going in there getting the than actually going in there getting the than actually going in there getting the water table right doing it on large water table right doing it on large water table right doing it on large enough areas now we know more what we enough areas now we know more what we enough areas now we know more what we actually need to do and i think the actually need to do and i think the actually need to do and i think the other thing is it's about doing it now other thing is it's about doing it now other thing is it's about doing it now because because because what we found in the past is by not what we found in the past is by not what we found in the past is by not doing something we have lost that doing something we have lost that doing something we have lost that interest we have lost time we've lost interest we have lost time we've lost interest we have lost time we've lost bog we've lost carbon we've lost any of bog we've lost carbon we've lost any of bog we've lost carbon we've lost any of the benefits that we could have had over the benefits that we could have had over the benefits that we could have had over the last 20 or 30 years by not actually the last 20 or 30 years by not actually the last 20 or 30 years by not actually having the confidence to actually go having the confidence to actually go having the confidence to actually go around doing it now that doesn't mean around doing it now that doesn't mean around doing it now that doesn't mean say it works every time say it works every time say it works every time but most times it actually does work and but most times it actually does work and but most times it actually does work and we learn from when we don't actually it we learn from when we don't actually it we learn from when we don't actually it does it's not successful seeing the bigger picture as a saying seeing the bigger picture as a saying seeing the bigger picture as a saying about integration of policy is not just about integration of policy is not just about integration of policy is not just about peatlands you have to think about about peatlands you have to think about about peatlands you have to think about woodlands you're saying bogwoodlands woodlands you're saying bogwoodlands woodlands you're saying bogwoodlands grasslands heathland grasslands heathland grasslands heathland the lot the lot the lot rivers rivers rivers if we think in that way we can actually if we think in that way we can actually if we think in that way we can actually integrate projects to produce much integrate projects to produce much integrate projects to produce much better outcomes rather than just a better outcomes rather than just a better outcomes rather than just a peatland restoration project we can have peatland restoration project we can have peatland restoration project we can have a peatland restoration wetlands a peatland restoration wetlands a peatland restoration wetlands complex river restoration complex complex river restoration complex complex river restoration complex all these things should be fitting all these things should be fitting all these things should be fitting together not in just iso isolated together not in just iso isolated together not in just iso isolated aspects and that i think is one of the aspects and that i think is one of the aspects and that i think is one of the key things where the most gains can come key things where the most gains can come key things where the most gains can come in the future and that's one thing i've in the future and that's one thing i've in the future and that's one thing i've learned from that learned from that learned from that how we actually do resource planning is how we actually do resource planning is how we actually do resource planning is interesting it's very target driven and interesting it's very target driven and interesting it's very target driven and that leads to sort of short-termism and that leads to sort of short-termism and that leads to sort of short-termism and i think that's when you're talking about i think that's when you're talking about i think that's when you're talking about bogs we're talking a thousand years old bogs we're talking a thousand years old bogs we're talking a thousand years old more than thousands of years more than thousands of years more than thousands of years you're actually should be looking at you're actually should be looking at you're actually should be looking at process and the process of how that process and the process of how that process and the process of how that integrates with other other systems as integrates with other other systems as integrates with other other systems as well not just well not just well not just one system you've got to think about one system you've got to think about one system you've got to think about valuing people as well because people valuing people as well because people valuing people as well because people are part of that system but also valuing are part of that system but also valuing are part of that system but also valuing our soil resources and also when we want our soil resources and also when we want our soil resources and also when we want to develop look at the true costs of to develop look at the true costs of to develop look at the true costs of that development that development that development investing in people is is one of the key investing in people is is one of the key investing in people is is one of the key things that we actually have learned things that we actually have learned things that we actually have learned that we need to do and we need to do it that we need to do and we need to do it that we need to do and we need to do it quickly to actually scale up to actually quickly to actually scale up to actually quickly to actually scale up to actually get the restoration done on the ground get the restoration done on the ground get the restoration done on the ground and as emily here from the carbon crime and as emily here from the carbon crime and as emily here from the carbon crime center working for peatland action doing center working for peatland action doing center working for peatland action doing lots of training across scotland but lots of training across scotland but lots of training across scotland but it's actually taking that training to it's actually taking that training to it's actually taking that training to the people who actually need it the people who actually need it the people who actually need it in a location that's relatively close to in a location that's relatively close to in a location that's relatively close to them it's not about drawing people them it's not about drawing people them it's not about drawing people because most most of the people doing because most most of the people doing because most most of the people doing this work are actually living where they this work are actually living where they this work are actually living where they can they live in remote relatively can they live in remote relatively can they live in remote relatively remote areas remote areas remote areas so people and action have been doing so people and action have been doing so people and action have been doing quite a quite a quite a lot of work on their own actually doing lot of work on their own actually doing lot of work on their own actually doing that that that going back to the valuing resources it going back to the valuing resources it going back to the valuing resources it isn't just about people knowing what to isn't just about people knowing what to isn't just about people knowing what to do it's do we actually learn and do we do it's do we actually learn and do we do it's do we actually learn and do we do we act on that learning the slide on do we act on that learning the slide on do we act on that learning the slide on the left when i first visited that i the left when i first visited that i the left when i first visited that i thought has this been the first road thought has this been the first road thought has this been the first road that we've ever built that we've ever built that we've ever built not to know what happens when you dig not to know what happens when you dig not to know what happens when you dig ditches and ditches and ditches and have mud around on the site because it have mud around on the site because it have mud around on the site because it it's almost like going back to basic it's almost like going back to basic it's almost like going back to basic sometimes when you go onto a site and sometimes when you go onto a site and sometimes when you go onto a site and you think um you think um you think um have we progressed and when you look at have we progressed and when you look at have we progressed and when you look at the the advert on the right you think the the advert on the right you think the the advert on the right you think well well well it does suggest that we perhaps haven't it does suggest that we perhaps haven't it does suggest that we perhaps haven't progressed if that that sort of attitude progressed if that that sort of attitude progressed if that that sort of attitude is actually being promoted that i can do is actually being promoted that i can do is actually being promoted that i can do what i want i can drive and i can treat what i want i can drive and i can treat what i want i can drive and i can treat the soil how i want and i think that's the soil how i want and i think that's the soil how i want and i think that's that's a big factor we need to actually that's a big factor we need to actually that's a big factor we need to actually change change change the attitudes of people on on soil and the attitudes of people on on soil and the attitudes of people on on soil and on the value of soil as well using our resource again using our resource again using our resource again are we making the same mistakes this are we making the same mistakes this are we making the same mistakes this photograph is back in the 1980s which photograph is back in the 1980s which photograph is back in the 1980s which you'll all know you'll all know you'll all know large areas of scotland who are planted large areas of scotland who are planted large areas of scotland who are planted up in peatlands particularly planted up up in peatlands particularly planted up up in peatlands particularly planted up with conifers with conifers with conifers quite a few of those conifers and more quite a few of those conifers and more quite a few of those conifers and more recently have blown down the interesting recently have blown down the interesting recently have blown down the interesting question will be and they're growing on question will be and they're growing on question will be and they're growing on deep peat will we replant on those areas deep peat will we replant on those areas deep peat will we replant on those areas that will be i'll leave that open that will be i'll leave that open that will be i'll leave that open because that's something i'm keen to because that's something i'm keen to because that's something i'm keen to watch and see what actually happens also wind farms in development as well also wind farms in development as well also wind farms in development as well are we actually getting what we asked are we actually getting what we asked are we actually getting what we asked for in planning conditions and different for in planning conditions and different for in planning conditions and different things like that i think in most cases things like that i think in most cases things like that i think in most cases yes we are but there are some yes we are but there are some yes we are but there are some outstanding cases where we don't get outstanding cases where we don't get outstanding cases where we don't get what we're actually asking for and that what we're actually asking for and that what we're actually asking for and that is partly because there's no particular is partly because there's no particular is partly because there's no particular follow-up on actually making sure that follow-up on actually making sure that follow-up on actually making sure that we get what we asked for and sometimes we get what we asked for and sometimes we get what we asked for and sometimes that comes back to people not always that comes back to people not always that comes back to people not always knowing what to ask for and ask for it knowing what to ask for and ask for it knowing what to ask for and ask for it quite strongly until until you actually quite strongly until until you actually quite strongly until until you actually get it this is an example here would you get it this is an example here would you get it this is an example here would you like to see this like to see this like to see this or this or this or this this this this or this or this or this for a drain i think you you probably all for a drain i think you you probably all for a drain i think you you probably all agree that the latter is what we're agree that the latter is what we're agree that the latter is what we're actually looking for actually looking for actually looking for so so so i think it's a case of actually i think it's a case of actually i think it's a case of actually making sure we know what we want and making sure we know what we want and making sure we know what we want and actually pushing for that from a soil actually pushing for that from a soil actually pushing for that from a soil point of your peak point of view point of your peak point of view point of your peak point of view whatever we're actually looking at whatever we're actually looking at whatever we're actually looking at because and making it clear because and making it clear because and making it clear how to actually achieve that because how to actually achieve that because how to actually achieve that because sometimes we have to fill in the gaps on sometimes we have to fill in the gaps on sometimes we have to fill in the gaps on that and that's where the learning by that and that's where the learning by that and that's where the learning by doing often actually helps a lot doing often actually helps a lot doing often actually helps a lot so finally so finally so finally the lessons i'm learning because i the lessons i'm learning because i the lessons i'm learning because i haven't finished learning either haven't finished learning either haven't finished learning either i think being prepared to change is a i think being prepared to change is a i think being prepared to change is a big thing that big thing that big thing that you always need to do you always need to do you always need to do and and and we we we using common sense a lot of the time using common sense a lot of the time using common sense a lot of the time that's probably about the best you're that's probably about the best you're that's probably about the best you're actually going to get is being able to actually going to get is being able to actually going to get is being able to use just common sense because the facts use just common sense because the facts use just common sense because the facts aren't always there the facts will aren't always there the facts will aren't always there the facts will follow up and hopefully they will follow up and hopefully they will follow up and hopefully they will confirm what you're actually thinking confirm what you're actually thinking confirm what you're actually thinking from using your experience and knowledge from using your experience and knowledge from using your experience and knowledge and and other scientific experiences as and and other scientific experiences as and and other scientific experiences as well well well but keto we're doing a lot of this is but keto we're doing a lot of this is but keto we're doing a lot of this is actually keeping it simple we as humans actually keeping it simple we as humans actually keeping it simple we as humans we seem to make things very very we seem to make things very very we seem to make things very very complicated complicated complicated restoration it need not be complicated restoration it need not be complicated restoration it need not be complicated at all it is actually relatively simple at all it is actually relatively simple at all it is actually relatively simple it's about looking after sphagnum moss it's about looking after sphagnum moss it's about looking after sphagnum moss looking at how that will actually the looking at how that will actually the looking at how that will actually the conditions that it will actually grow in conditions that it will actually grow in conditions that it will actually grow in and creating those conditions and creating those conditions and creating those conditions and i think one thing that we're often and i think one thing that we're often and i think one thing that we're often guilty of is not asking for more in the guilty of is not asking for more in the guilty of is not asking for more in the environment and i think that's that's environment and i think that's that's environment and i think that's that's changed quite a lot actually i think changed quite a lot actually i think changed quite a lot actually i think people are willing to give more which is people are willing to give more which is people are willing to give more which is absolutely fantastic absolutely fantastic absolutely fantastic um but we still should ask for more than um but we still should ask for more than um but we still should ask for more than we think we actually actually need we think we actually actually need we think we actually actually need because inevitably you won't get all because inevitably you won't get all because inevitably you won't get all that you want and i think the key thing that you want and i think the key thing that you want and i think the key thing in this time of climate change is you in this time of climate change is you in this time of climate change is you have to do it now i was speaking to a have to do it now i was speaking to a have to do it now i was speaking to a site manager and she site manager and she site manager and she had been waiting 17 years for a whole had been waiting 17 years for a whole had been waiting 17 years for a whole set of data to be analyzed and collected set of data to be analyzed and collected set of data to be analyzed and collected and she said well actually i'm only and she said well actually i'm only and she said well actually i'm only going to going to going to advise the same thing to do now as i was advise the same thing to do now as i was advise the same thing to do now as i was going to do 17 years ago and i think going to do 17 years ago and i think going to do 17 years ago and i think well isn't that a shame we could have well isn't that a shame we could have well isn't that a shame we could have had 17 years worth of peatlands being had 17 years worth of peatlands being had 17 years worth of peatlands being restored rather than actually having to restored rather than actually having to restored rather than actually having to wait 17 years wait 17 years wait 17 years so that's my reflections on the sort of so that's my reflections on the sort of so that's my reflections on the sort of lessons we've learned and where we've lessons we've learned and where we've lessons we've learned and where we've got to in scotland thank you thank you andrew that was a fantastic thank you andrew that was a fantastic thank you andrew that was a fantastic presentation and a great set of um you presentation and a great set of um you presentation and a great set of um you know takeaway messages at the end and know takeaway messages at the end and know takeaway messages at the end and particularly that that concept of particularly that that concept of particularly that that concept of learning by doing learning by doing learning by doing um and acting now and not waiting i um and acting now and not waiting i um and acting now and not waiting i agree totally we've we've waited a long agree totally we've we've waited a long agree totally we've we've waited a long time time time thinking about things and thinking about things and thinking about things and you know running things through our you know running things through our you know running things through our minds and i think we just need to get on minds and i think we just need to get on minds and i think we just need to get on and do it and learn from that doing as and do it and learn from that doing as and do it and learn from that doing as well but thank you thank you very much well but thank you thank you very much well but thank you thank you very much um and uh um and uh um and uh hopefully you're all thinking of hopefully you're all thinking of hopefully you're all thinking of questions that you'd like to ask at the questions that you'd like to ask at the questions that you'd like to ask at the end and we'll come back to the questions end and we'll come back to the questions end and we'll come back to the questions at the end of the session at the end of the session at the end of the session so our next speaker is dr rebecca arts so our next speaker is dr rebecca arts so our next speaker is dr rebecca arts rebecca is a senior scientist at the rebecca is a senior scientist at the rebecca is a senior scientist at the james hutton institute she leads the james hutton institute she leads the james hutton institute she leads the restoration and adaptive management team restoration and adaptive management team restoration and adaptive management team and delivers interdisciplinary projects and delivers interdisciplinary projects and delivers interdisciplinary projects on a wide range of land use matters with on a wide range of land use matters with on a wide range of land use matters with teams across various institutions and in teams across various institutions and in teams across various institutions and in co-construction with policy co-construction with policy co-construction with policy she was a co-investigation on a base she was a co-investigation on a base she was a co-investigation on a base funded work to implement peatland funded work to implement peatland funded work to implement peatland emissions reporting in the uk national emissions reporting in the uk national emissions reporting in the uk national inventor in inventory inventor in inventory inventor in inventory and led the derivation of uk specific and led the derivation of uk specific and led the derivation of uk specific emissions factors and area estimates emissions factors and area estimates emissions factors and area estimates which were the source of data for which were the source of data for which were the source of data for calculation of peatland mitigation calculation of peatland mitigation calculation of peatland mitigation potential in the committee on climate potential in the committee on climate potential in the committee on climate changes 2019 net zero assessment report changes 2019 net zero assessment report changes 2019 net zero assessment report she's presented research at cop 25 in she's presented research at cop 25 in she's presented research at cop 25 in madrid in chile and cop 26 in glasgow madrid in chile and cop 26 in glasgow madrid in chile and cop 26 in glasgow she also led hutton components within she also led hutton components within she also led hutton components within scotland's center for expertise on scotland's center for expertise on scotland's center for expertise on climate change between 2017 and 2021 and climate change between 2017 and 2021 and climate change between 2017 and 2021 and is currently on part time to comment to is currently on part time to comment to is currently on part time to comment to lead the technical advice team within lead the technical advice team within lead the technical advice team within nature scott peatland action nature scott peatland action nature scott peatland action she's a principal investigation for the she's a principal investigation for the she's a principal investigation for the mothership nerc large grant which runs mothership nerc large grant which runs mothership nerc large grant which runs from this year to 2027 and the um resas from this year to 2027 and the um resas from this year to 2027 and the um resas strategic research program centerpiece strategic research program centerpiece strategic research program centerpiece project which again runs over the same project which again runs over the same project which again runs over the same time period so over to you rebecca for some reason my screen share option for some reason my screen share option for some reason my screen share option has disappeared i don't know if the has disappeared i don't know if the has disappeared i don't know if the organizers could change that again organizers could change that again organizers could change that again ask for that again please right right right okay um so um i couldn't have asked for okay um so um i couldn't have asked for okay um so um i couldn't have asked for a better introduction and then andrew's a better introduction and then andrew's a better introduction and then andrew's talk and patricia's earlier um because talk and patricia's earlier um because talk and patricia's earlier um because mine is probably a slightly different mine is probably a slightly different mine is probably a slightly different take on take on take on um the very same topic so um um the very same topic so um um the very same topic so um while i'm currently working with um while i'm currently working with um while i'm currently working with um nature's got peach peated action for nature's got peach peated action for nature's got peach peated action for part of my time in fact half of my time part of my time in fact half of my time part of my time in fact half of my time at the moment as well to to deliver at the moment as well to to deliver at the moment as well to to deliver peatland restoration peatland restoration peatland restoration and my and my and my long-term job if you like through the long-term job if you like through the long-term job if you like through the james hutton institute has been more and james hutton institute has been more and james hutton institute has been more and providing the scientific evidence providing the scientific evidence providing the scientific evidence and in terms of current condition of and in terms of current condition of and in terms of current condition of patents and patents and patents and how we might better manage them um in how we might better manage them um in how we might better manage them um in future and monitor the effects of um future and monitor the effects of um future and monitor the effects of um changes in peatland management so changes in peatland management so changes in peatland management so um this isn't entirely scotland-focused um this isn't entirely scotland-focused um this isn't entirely scotland-focused because the remit of my uh my job and because the remit of my uh my job and because the remit of my uh my job and the team of people that i work with um the team of people that i work with um the team of people that i work with um is is more of a an eventually global is is more of a an eventually global is is more of a an eventually global reach so this is effectively a journey reach so this is effectively a journey reach so this is effectively a journey into impedance through space and time um into impedance through space and time um into impedance through space and time um as well as well as well so a quick introduction to why our small a quick introduction to why our small a quick introduction to why our small and scottish and uk peatlands are in and scottish and uk peatlands are in and scottish and uk peatlands are in fact globally important fact globally important fact globally important um as you can see here peatlands are um as you can see here peatlands are um as you can see here peatlands are the world's most amazing terrestrial the world's most amazing terrestrial the world's most amazing terrestrial carbon source because they have very carbon source because they have very carbon source because they have very slowly but um surely squirreled away slowly but um surely squirreled away slowly but um surely squirreled away um um um carbon at a rate of a .04 to one carbon at a rate of a .04 to one carbon at a rate of a .04 to one gigatons of carbon gigatons of carbon gigatons of carbon um so they are now containing um so they are now containing um so they are now containing almost a third of all the global soil almost a third of all the global soil almost a third of all the global soil carbon in general and so in their carbon in general and so in their carbon in general and so in their natural states peatlands would be carbon natural states peatlands would be carbon natural states peatlands would be carbon sinks but unfortunately they are now a sinks but unfortunately they are now a sinks but unfortunately they are now a major carbon source due to regional major carbon source due to regional major carbon source due to regional drainage and land conversion and the two drainage and land conversion and the two drainage and land conversion and the two worst offending areas are worst offending areas are worst offending areas are western europe including the uk and western europe including the uk and western europe including the uk and scotland and also southeast asia so the scotland and also southeast asia so the scotland and also southeast asia so the picture that we're looking at now is picture that we're looking at now is picture that we're looking at now is rather than peatlands globally being a rather than peatlands globally being a rather than peatlands globally being a net sink of carbon and thereby helping net sink of carbon and thereby helping net sink of carbon and thereby helping to combat climate change they're to combat climate change they're to combat climate change they're actually a net contributor and that is actually a net contributor and that is actually a net contributor and that is due to 10 of the peatland area globally due to 10 of the peatland area globally due to 10 of the peatland area globally being drained and only and that's being drained and only and that's being drained and only and that's flipped the entire global carbon sink flipped the entire global carbon sink flipped the entire global carbon sink into a net source to the tune of five into a net source to the tune of five into a net source to the tune of five percent of all anthropogenic emissions percent of all anthropogenic emissions percent of all anthropogenic emissions which is quite astonishing really which is quite astonishing really which is quite astonishing really and so to and so to and so to give you some simple numbers um give you some simple numbers um give you some simple numbers um most of you will know this to stay most of you will know this to stay most of you will know this to stay within our 1.5 degree target um globally within our 1.5 degree target um globally within our 1.5 degree target um globally of of of warming the remaining carbon budget has warming the remaining carbon budget has warming the remaining carbon budget has now been estimated as between 230 and now been estimated as between 230 and now been estimated as between 230 and 440 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide 440 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide 440 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent equivalent equivalent and those were 2020 numbers so um we're and those were 2020 numbers so um we're and those were 2020 numbers so um we're already we've already depleted that at already we've already depleted that at already we've already depleted that at some rate and the rate currently is um some rate and the rate currently is um some rate and the rate currently is um that we're probably still emitting that we're probably still emitting that we're probably still emitting around 60 gigatonnes of camber oxide around 60 gigatonnes of camber oxide around 60 gigatonnes of camber oxide globally per year um steadily declining globally per year um steadily declining globally per year um steadily declining but still not good news um and but still not good news um and but still not good news um and the uk emissions component of that is the uk emissions component of that is the uk emissions component of that is nearly half of a gigaton so when you nearly half of a gigaton so when you nearly half of a gigaton so when you think about the land area of the uk um think about the land area of the uk um think about the land area of the uk um in global terms that's that's not good in global terms that's that's not good in global terms that's that's not good news news news and when you basically then drill this and when you basically then drill this and when you basically then drill this down to the peatlands component um down to the peatlands component um down to the peatlands component um for the uk total um for the uk total um for the uk total um peatland peatland peatland emitted emitted emitted 13.7 megatons in 2019 which actually 13.7 megatons in 2019 which actually 13.7 megatons in 2019 which actually excludes the forestry sector which may excludes the forestry sector which may excludes the forestry sector which may or may not be um a net carbon sink in or may not be um a net carbon sink in or may not be um a net carbon sink in the short term the short term the short term but that figure is astonishing we are a but that figure is astonishing we are a but that figure is astonishing we are a very peat-rich nation and both within very peat-rich nation and both within very peat-rich nation and both within scotland and and also within the uk to a scotland and and also within the uk to a scotland and and also within the uk to a lesser degree when when you look at the lesser degree when when you look at the lesser degree when when you look at the distribution of peatlands and that distribution of peatlands and that distribution of peatlands and that peeling should not be a carbon source um peeling should not be a carbon source um peeling should not be a carbon source um and especially if we're looking at um and especially if we're looking at um and especially if we're looking at um the pathways that we do have the pathways that we do have the pathways that we do have in relation to limiting and global in relation to limiting and global in relation to limiting and global warming to 1.5 degrees ideally without warming to 1.5 degrees ideally without warming to 1.5 degrees ideally without any overshoot we really need to look at any overshoot we really need to look at any overshoot we really need to look at um um um emissions peaking very soon and reaching emissions peaking very soon and reaching emissions peaking very soon and reaching net zero by the early 2050s and of net zero by the early 2050s and of net zero by the early 2050s and of course both scotland and the uk have now course both scotland and the uk have now course both scotland and the uk have now legal instruments to try and get us to legal instruments to try and get us to legal instruments to try and get us to that um ideally even before the 2050 that um ideally even before the 2050 that um ideally even before the 2050 target target target so as was introduced in the introduction so as was introduced in the introduction so as was introduced in the introduction for this talk i've been part of a team for this talk i've been part of a team for this talk i've been part of a team that compiled the emission factors for that compiled the emission factors for that compiled the emission factors for um peatlands to report on in the uk um peatlands to report on in the uk um peatlands to report on in the uk greenhouse gas inventory and since 2019 greenhouse gas inventory and since 2019 greenhouse gas inventory and since 2019 these figures have now been used to these figures have now been used to these figures have now been used to report on report on report on both the current emissions and progress both the current emissions and progress both the current emissions and progress in terms of reducing uh pedal and carbon in terms of reducing uh pedal and carbon in terms of reducing uh pedal and carbon emissions um and i won't go into too emissions um and i won't go into too emissions um and i won't go into too much detail because of the time here but much detail because of the time here but much detail because of the time here but what you can see here is that um there what you can see here is that um there what you can see here is that um there are several component parts that make up are several component parts that make up are several component parts that make up the net losses from peatlands and the the net losses from peatlands and the the net losses from peatlands and the blue bars here are the losses through blue bars here are the losses through blue bars here are the losses through carbon dioxide um carbon dioxide um carbon dioxide um that's so you can see from this just the that's so you can see from this just the that's so you can see from this just the size of the bars and the the top um bars size of the bars and the the top um bars size of the bars and the the top um bars are the near natural state where the are the near natural state where the are the near natural state where the blue is effectively in the negative and blue is effectively in the negative and blue is effectively in the negative and you see the same for re-wetted sides so you see the same for re-wetted sides so you see the same for re-wetted sides so those are carbon dioxide sinks but some those are carbon dioxide sinks but some those are carbon dioxide sinks but some of that of that of that uptake is offset by losses of methane uptake is offset by losses of methane uptake is offset by losses of methane and other um components of the net and other um components of the net and other um components of the net carbon flux the more degraded um carbon flux the more degraded um carbon flux the more degraded um european um through land cover european um through land cover european um through land cover conversion drainage and in the worst conversion drainage and in the worst conversion drainage and in the worst case um conversion to grassland or even case um conversion to grassland or even case um conversion to grassland or even cropland the stronger the net carbon cropland the stronger the net carbon cropland the stronger the net carbon dioxide emissions are dioxide emissions are dioxide emissions are and then on top of that there are also and then on top of that there are also and then on top of that there are also in terms of intensive land use other um in terms of intensive land use other um in terms of intensive land use other um parts of that carbon equation such as parts of that carbon equation such as parts of that carbon equation such as dissolved organic carbon dissolved organic carbon dissolved organic carbon uh particulate organic carbon in their uh particulate organic carbon in their uh particulate organic carbon in their areas in particular and also nitrous areas in particular and also nitrous areas in particular and also nitrous oxide emissions and emissions of methane oxide emissions and emissions of methane oxide emissions and emissions of methane from the ditches so these add up so the from the ditches so these add up so the from the ditches so these add up so the same data reimagined and now with um the same data reimagined and now with um the same data reimagined and now with um the errors and added so these are the errors and added so these are the errors and added so these are the uncertainties in each of the emission uncertainties in each of the emission uncertainties in each of the emission factors factors factors um compiled in quadrature and if you um compiled in quadrature and if you um compiled in quadrature and if you look at the total carbon budget for look at the total carbon budget for look at the total carbon budget for peatlands under different condition on peatlands under different condition on peatlands under different condition on land cover categories it's only the near land cover categories it's only the near land cover categories it's only the near natural sites that we can say with natural sites that we can say with natural sites that we can say with reasonable confidence are currently reasonable confidence are currently reasonable confidence are currently either net sinks or either net sinks or either net sinks or probably statistically speaking not probably statistically speaking not probably statistically speaking not different from zero in terms of their different from zero in terms of their different from zero in terms of their carbon accumulation carbon accumulation carbon accumulation and all others apart from re-wetted and all others apart from re-wetted and all others apart from re-wetted fence are fence are fence are currently very much net sources of currently very much net sources of currently very much net sources of carbon dioxide carbon dioxide carbon dioxide and so you can then use these figures to and so you can then use these figures to and so you can then use these figures to look at potential and abatement look at potential and abatement look at potential and abatement and if these areas were restored so on a and if these areas were restored so on a and if these areas were restored so on a per hectare basis and as you can see per hectare basis and as you can see per hectare basis and as you can see here again adding up all the here again adding up all the here again adding up all the uncertainties in the data it gets quite uncertainties in the data it gets quite uncertainties in the data it gets quite messy but to the best of our knowledge messy but to the best of our knowledge messy but to the best of our knowledge at the moment and and these data are at the moment and and these data are at the moment and and these data are actually still being worked on and actually still being worked on and actually still being worked on and updated on an annual basis and we see updated on an annual basis and we see updated on an annual basis and we see that pretty much any um re-wetting of that pretty much any um re-wetting of that pretty much any um re-wetting of peatlands gives um peatlands gives um peatlands gives um statistically statistically statistically valid abatement potential possibly with valid abatement potential possibly with valid abatement potential possibly with the exception of modified bugs so very the exception of modified bugs so very the exception of modified bugs so very mildly converted bugs where actually our mildly converted bugs where actually our mildly converted bugs where actually our data sources are still quite sparse so data sources are still quite sparse so data sources are still quite sparse so the jury is still a little bit out on the jury is still a little bit out on the jury is still a little bit out on that one and one thing i need to add to that one and one thing i need to add to that one and one thing i need to add to this is that um where we haven't this is that um where we haven't this is that um where we haven't assumed here that abatement potential assumed here that abatement potential assumed here that abatement potential means subtracting the means subtracting the means subtracting the um um um net emissions from degraded borg net emissions from degraded borg net emissions from degraded borg with those of a near natural site we've with those of a near natural site we've with those of a near natural site we've actually with these assessments looked actually with these assessments looked actually with these assessments looked at and the most likely scenario so going at and the most likely scenario so going at and the most likely scenario so going from cropland to um the re-wetted state from cropland to um the re-wetted state from cropland to um the re-wetted state rather than cropland to intact because rather than cropland to intact because rather than cropland to intact because um against the 20 45 or 2050 target it's um against the 20 45 or 2050 target it's um against the 20 45 or 2050 target it's probably not feasible to restore back to probably not feasible to restore back to probably not feasible to restore back to the carbon sink function of a of a the carbon sink function of a of a the carbon sink function of a of a near-natural side so these figures near-natural side so these figures near-natural side so these figures already include um a very um cautious already include um a very um cautious already include um a very um cautious approach in terms of assessing abatement approach in terms of assessing abatement approach in terms of assessing abatement potential potential potential and so this then leads on to um using and so this then leads on to um using and so this then leads on to um using peatland restoration as a as part of the peatland restoration as a as part of the peatland restoration as a as part of the suite of meta methods to achieve net suite of meta methods to achieve net suite of meta methods to achieve net zero so as also andrew has introduced zero so as also andrew has introduced zero so as also andrew has introduced and this is and this is and this is um going forward at great speed um and um going forward at great speed um and um going forward at great speed um and as patricia needs to be speeded up as patricia needs to be speeded up as patricia needs to be speeded up rapidly as well to achieve net zeo we're rapidly as well to achieve net zeo we're rapidly as well to achieve net zeo we're talking about talking about talking about um probably in excess of a million um probably in excess of a million um probably in excess of a million hectares of peatland in scotland alone hectares of peatland in scotland alone hectares of peatland in scotland alone that is in need of some form of that is in need of some form of that is in need of some form of re-wetting or restoration and so we need re-wetting or restoration and so we need re-wetting or restoration and so we need to really speed this up rapidly but we to really speed this up rapidly but we to really speed this up rapidly but we also need to show and that that also need to show and that that also need to show and that that restoration produces robust outcomes and restoration produces robust outcomes and restoration produces robust outcomes and andrew has shown some very great andrew has shown some very great andrew has shown some very great examples of the the interim outcomes um examples of the the interim outcomes um examples of the the interim outcomes um which is fantastic so um i will also which is fantastic so um i will also which is fantastic so um i will also show some show some show some further um of the further um of the further um of the research ongoing research programs here research ongoing research programs here research ongoing research programs here so just as a brief interlude i'll delve so just as a brief interlude i'll delve so just as a brief interlude i'll delve a little bit into a little bit into a little bit into more of the science about how we measure more of the science about how we measure more of the science about how we measure uh specifically carbon emissions uh specifically carbon emissions uh specifically carbon emissions so um with the exception of so um with the exception of so um with the exception of the aqueous losses of carbon um the aqueous losses of carbon um the aqueous losses of carbon um which is shown in these little bottles which is shown in these little bottles which is shown in these little bottles here here here where we are measuring um the color of where we are measuring um the color of where we are measuring um the color of water effectively by looking at water effectively by looking at water effectively by looking at dissolved organic carbon concentrations dissolved organic carbon concentrations dissolved organic carbon concentrations and and and converting that to a flux by converting that to a flux by converting that to a flux by measurements of the amount and volumes measurements of the amount and volumes measurements of the amount and volumes of water and the the of water and the the of water and the the timing of the water flow and the rest of timing of the water flow and the rest of timing of the water flow and the rest of the gaseous emissions are frequently the gaseous emissions are frequently the gaseous emissions are frequently measured with a variety of techniques measured with a variety of techniques measured with a variety of techniques but the the gold standard really here but the the gold standard really here but the the gold standard really here are and these systems which colloquially are and these systems which colloquially are and these systems which colloquially are called flux towers and but these are called flux towers and but these are called flux towers and but these really measure utilize a method called really measure utilize a method called really measure utilize a method called the eddy covariance technique the eddy covariance technique the eddy covariance technique and effectively what this is is and effectively what this is is and effectively what this is is utilizing the fact that um utilizing the fact that um utilizing the fact that um changes in conditions in air movement changes in conditions in air movement changes in conditions in air movement produce a certain amount of turbulence produce a certain amount of turbulence produce a certain amount of turbulence and this turbulence as you can see here and this turbulence as you can see here and this turbulence as you can see here produces effectively eddies of upward produces effectively eddies of upward produces effectively eddies of upward and downward moving air parcels and and downward moving air parcels and and downward moving air parcels and these air parcels carry carbon dioxide these air parcels carry carbon dioxide these air parcels carry carbon dioxide or methane or nitrous oxide if if that's or methane or nitrous oxide if if that's or methane or nitrous oxide if if that's what you're measuring on site so if what you're measuring on site so if what you're measuring on site so if you've got an instrument at a fixed you've got an instrument at a fixed you've got an instrument at a fixed point point point in relation to the movement of airflow in relation to the movement of airflow in relation to the movement of airflow and if you've got a fast measuring and if you've got a fast measuring and if you've got a fast measuring instrument it can measure basically the instrument it can measure basically the instrument it can measure basically the side of these eddies and and decide side of these eddies and and decide side of these eddies and and decide whether the air is moving downward or whether the air is moving downward or whether the air is moving downward or upward and by that you can then upward and by that you can then upward and by that you can then determine the flux determine the flux determine the flux and so because the instrument is in one and so because the instrument is in one and so because the instrument is in one particular point in space and and your particular point in space and and your particular point in space and and your ear movement is three-dimensional we're ear movement is three-dimensional we're ear movement is three-dimensional we're not measuring the same location in space not measuring the same location in space not measuring the same location in space at all times so what we're measuring is at all times so what we're measuring is at all times so what we're measuring is effectively a footprint which varies effectively a footprint which varies effectively a footprint which varies through time in through time in through time in in 3d so that's the kind of exciting bit in 3d so that's the kind of exciting bit in 3d so that's the kind of exciting bit that we can measure of different parcels that we can measure of different parcels that we can measure of different parcels of a landscape of a landscape of a landscape and so just to show you where we're at and so just to show you where we're at and so just to show you where we're at at the moment and this is a map of the at the moment and this is a map of the at the moment and this is a map of the current um greenhouse gas monitoring current um greenhouse gas monitoring current um greenhouse gas monitoring network um using flux towers and that's network um using flux towers and that's network um using flux towers and that's the the most up-to-date situation so at the the most up-to-date situation so at the the most up-to-date situation so at present there are present there are present there are um 10 eddie covariance flux towers on um 10 eddie covariance flux towers on um 10 eddie covariance flux towers on pitland already in place and as of last pitland already in place and as of last pitland already in place and as of last week um week um week um we've received news that there will be we've received news that there will be we've received news that there will be another three added to this so this will another three added to this so this will another three added to this so this will probably add to fill some of the spatial probably add to fill some of the spatial probably add to fill some of the spatial undersampling in this map undersampling in this map undersampling in this map and also we are working with further and also we are working with further and also we are working with further partners um who are also adding partners um who are also adding partners um who are also adding potentially two other towers to these potentially two other towers to these potentially two other towers to these locations predominantly in the central locations predominantly in the central locations predominantly in the central belt and in the southwest of scotland belt and in the southwest of scotland belt and in the southwest of scotland and because this is quite expensive um and because this is quite expensive um and because this is quite expensive um kit and it's this is actually a kit and it's this is actually a kit and it's this is actually a consortium effort between a number of consortium effort between a number of consortium effort between a number of organizations as you can see here on the organizations as you can see here on the organizations as you can see here on the right right right and where this data then also feeds into and where this data then also feeds into and where this data then also feeds into is into a larger european and ultimately is into a larger european and ultimately is into a larger european and ultimately global network of flux parasites so you global network of flux parasites so you global network of flux parasites so you can see there in the image on the right can see there in the image on the right can see there in the image on the right and the representation of um and the representation of um and the representation of um monitoring locations in relation to the monitoring locations in relation to the monitoring locations in relation to the climate regions across europe so in the climate regions across europe so in the climate regions across europe so in the green is the oceanic temperate zone of green is the oceanic temperate zone of green is the oceanic temperate zone of course which is heavily represented by course which is heavily represented by course which is heavily represented by um the uk and ireland and other parts of um the uk and ireland and other parts of um the uk and ireland and other parts of um um um more temperate europe and then we move more temperate europe and then we move more temperate europe and then we move into the blue temperate zone and the into the blue temperate zone and the into the blue temperate zone and the dark blue greyish areas of the boreal dark blue greyish areas of the boreal dark blue greyish areas of the boreal and then into the into the orange and and then into the into the orange and and then into the into the orange and yellow yellows were more into yellow yellows were more into yellow yellows were more into tropical types of climates and of course tropical types of climates and of course tropical types of climates and of course these are ever changing so what this these are ever changing so what this these are ever changing so what this network also allows us to do is to look network also allows us to do is to look network also allows us to do is to look at climate change at climate change at climate change and and and as i said there is and also as others as i said there is and also as others as i said there is and also as others have mentioned before have mentioned before have mentioned before and there are often indicators that we and there are often indicators that we and there are often indicators that we can use um can use um can use um of of of potential potential potential net losses of carbon dioxide and methane net losses of carbon dioxide and methane net losses of carbon dioxide and methane and i was and i was and i was involved in a synthesis of work to look involved in a synthesis of work to look involved in a synthesis of work to look at the potential drivers of carbon at the potential drivers of carbon at the potential drivers of carbon dioxide and methane losses and this was dioxide and methane losses and this was dioxide and methane losses and this was published last year in nature where we published last year in nature where we published last year in nature where we showed that showed that showed that when you look at these very when you look at these very when you look at these very sort of gold standard sites of eddie sort of gold standard sites of eddie sort of gold standard sites of eddie covariance measurements and there is covariance measurements and there is covariance measurements and there is very strong indication that over the very strong indication that over the very strong indication that over the medium term at least when we're talking medium term at least when we're talking medium term at least when we're talking looking at kind of looking at kind of looking at kind of multi-year data sets that there's a multi-year data sets that there's a multi-year data sets that there's a linear relationship of the losses of linear relationship of the losses of linear relationship of the losses of carbon dioxide and carbon dioxide and carbon dioxide and relative to the net relative to the net relative to the net um losses certainly there's a linear um losses certainly there's a linear um losses certainly there's a linear relationship between the annual water relationship between the annual water relationship between the annual water table depth and the net losses of carbon table depth and the net losses of carbon table depth and the net losses of carbon dioxide and there's a dioxide and there's a dioxide and there's a an inverse relationship between the an inverse relationship between the an inverse relationship between the water table depth and water table depth and water table depth and methane losses which is also non-linear methane losses which is also non-linear methane losses which is also non-linear so in that large graph in the middle so in that large graph in the middle so in that large graph in the middle what you can see is if you superimpose what you can see is if you superimpose what you can see is if you superimpose the two so the green line is the carbon the two so the green line is the carbon the two so the green line is the carbon dioxide losses which increase as you dioxide losses which increase as you dioxide losses which increase as you drain aside and in orange is the line drain aside and in orange is the line drain aside and in orange is the line for methane and methane losses increase for methane and methane losses increase for methane and methane losses increase the more inundated site is and and then the more inundated site is and and then the more inundated site is and and then the black line basically uses um those the black line basically uses um those the black line basically uses um those two in combination and as you can see two in combination and as you can see two in combination and as you can see there's a kind of sweet spot around five there's a kind of sweet spot around five there's a kind of sweet spot around five to ten centimeters below the water below to ten centimeters below the water below to ten centimeters below the water below the surface of a peatland where it's the surface of a peatland where it's the surface of a peatland where it's just right and in net terms you've got just right and in net terms you've got just right and in net terms you've got um a carbon sink um for um a carbon sink um for um a carbon sink um for and the combined balance of carbon and the combined balance of carbon and the combined balance of carbon dioxide and methane and of course there dioxide and methane and of course there dioxide and methane and of course there are small additional elements as we are small additional elements as we are small additional elements as we showed earlier of docpoc and and other showed earlier of docpoc and and other showed earlier of docpoc and and other factors potentially but that's usually factors potentially but that's usually factors potentially but that's usually roughly the sweet spot roughly the sweet spot roughly the sweet spot the issue is what we don't yet know is the issue is what we don't yet know is the issue is what we don't yet know is how stable that sweet spot is and how how stable that sweet spot is and how how stable that sweet spot is and how whether there are regional differences whether there are regional differences whether there are regional differences in relation to in relation to in relation to local climatic factors that influence local climatic factors that influence local climatic factors that influence that sweet spot so this is effectively a that sweet spot so this is effectively a that sweet spot so this is effectively a synthesis of temperate regions synthesis of temperate regions synthesis of temperate regions and might need a lot more work to and might need a lot more work to and might need a lot more work to disentangle that for for local specific disentangle that for for local specific disentangle that for for local specific locations locations locations and so just to briefly introduce in the and so just to briefly introduce in the and so just to briefly introduce in the last few minutes i've got um where all last few minutes i've got um where all last few minutes i've got um where all of this and monitoring network comes in of this and monitoring network comes in of this and monitoring network comes in this into two major new five-year this into two major new five-year this into two major new five-year projects um which are um projects um which are um projects um which are um respectively funded by nerg respectively funded by nerg respectively funded by nerg ukri which is the mothership project and ukri which is the mothership project and ukri which is the mothership project and also by also by also by the recess division within scottish the recess division within scottish the recess division within scottish government which is the centerpiece government which is the centerpiece government which is the centerpiece project and although the fluxtar network project and although the fluxtar network project and although the fluxtar network effectively delivers to both of these effectively delivers to both of these effectively delivers to both of these projects they have slightly different projects they have slightly different projects they have slightly different slightly different focus so the slightly different focus so the slightly different focus so the mothership project is very much about mothership project is very much about mothership project is very much about large-scale modelling and developing large-scale modelling and developing large-scale modelling and developing models and the focus here is on the models and the focus here is on the models and the focus here is on the resilience of peatlands in relation to resilience of peatlands in relation to resilience of peatlands in relation to climate change climate change climate change so at the moment we have fairly short so at the moment we have fairly short so at the moment we have fairly short data series from most of these sites but data series from most of these sites but data series from most of these sites but we can already see for example here that we can already see for example here that we can already see for example here that in drought years following in drought years following in drought years following for example the 2018 example here um for example the 2018 example here um for example the 2018 example here um sites have a tendency um to flip into a sites have a tendency um to flip into a sites have a tendency um to flip into a more more more carbon emitting state and carbon emitting state and carbon emitting state and the long-term observations longer-term the long-term observations longer-term the long-term observations longer-term observations that we will be able to observations that we will be able to observations that we will be able to gather here in this project in relation gather here in this project in relation gather here in this project in relation to already existing data will be able to to already existing data will be able to to already existing data will be able to interrogate in relation to drought interrogate in relation to drought interrogate in relation to drought frequencies frequencies frequencies in a little bit more detail and use in a little bit more detail and use in a little bit more detail and use these to parametrize various models these to parametrize various models these to parametrize various models the centipede project on the other hand the centipede project on the other hand the centipede project on the other hand focuses very much on scottish feedlands focuses very much on scottish feedlands focuses very much on scottish feedlands and what we will look at here is the and what we will look at here is the and what we will look at here is the transitions so at the moment most of the transitions so at the moment most of the transitions so at the moment most of the data series you have that we have are data series you have that we have are data series you have that we have are from sites that have been in a in a from sites that have been in a in a from sites that have been in a in a static state of land use or a land cover static state of land use or a land cover static state of land use or a land cover and very few stations so far have looked and very few stations so far have looked and very few stations so far have looked at the transition especially post at the transition especially post at the transition especially post re-wetting so what we were looking at re-wetting so what we were looking at re-wetting so what we were looking at here is basically the change between the here is basically the change between the here is basically the change between the top and top and top and the bottom state which at the moment the bottom state which at the moment the bottom state which at the moment we're not we're not yet capturing we're not we're not yet capturing we're not we're not yet capturing so these graphs actually show the kind so these graphs actually show the kind so these graphs actually show the kind of cumulative amount of carbon dioxide of cumulative amount of carbon dioxide of cumulative amount of carbon dioxide in in sites so the top one is kind of in in sites so the top one is kind of in in sites so the top one is kind of reflective of a moderately drained site reflective of a moderately drained site reflective of a moderately drained site where in some years it's accumulating where in some years it's accumulating where in some years it's accumulating carbon and zombies it's losing a little carbon and zombies it's losing a little carbon and zombies it's losing a little more carbon over the longer term period more carbon over the longer term period more carbon over the longer term period it's effectively around about zero in it's effectively around about zero in it's effectively around about zero in terms of net accumulation whereas the terms of net accumulation whereas the terms of net accumulation whereas the bottom plot really shows you a strongly bottom plot really shows you a strongly bottom plot really shows you a strongly accumulating intact site so in accumulating intact site so in accumulating intact site so in cumulative terms that's how peatlands cumulative terms that's how peatlands cumulative terms that's how peatlands work they're slow but steady work they're slow but steady work they're slow but steady accumulation and accumulation and accumulation and locations locations locations so so so what we're going to do with these data what we're going to do with these data what we're going to do with these data is not just related to carbon although is not just related to carbon although is not just related to carbon although this has been a very carbon focused um this has been a very carbon focused um this has been a very carbon focused um talk so far um effectively both of these talk so far um effectively both of these talk so far um effectively both of these projects in with slightly different projects in with slightly different projects in with slightly different spatial remits are looking at the spatial remits are looking at the spatial remits are looking at the whole complement of resilience it's not whole complement of resilience it's not whole complement of resilience it's not just about the exchange of carbon it's just about the exchange of carbon it's just about the exchange of carbon it's also about water and energy dynamics so also about water and energy dynamics so also about water and energy dynamics so and how these sites function under and how these sites function under and how these sites function under drought conditions under extreme weather drought conditions under extreme weather drought conditions under extreme weather conditions the other direction and also conditions the other direction and also conditions the other direction and also in the longer term with global warming in the longer term with global warming in the longer term with global warming and all of these projects are augmented and all of these projects are augmented and all of these projects are augmented with a number of earth observations and with a number of earth observations and with a number of earth observations and also on-site hydrological measurements also on-site hydrological measurements also on-site hydrological measurements and modeling of elements such as andre and modeling of elements such as andre and modeling of elements such as andre mentioned the the distribution of water mentioned the the distribution of water mentioned the the distribution of water across the sites and off the sides so across the sites and off the sides so across the sites and off the sides so there are also aspects of modeling uh there are also aspects of modeling uh there are also aspects of modeling uh the lateral flow of water within and and the lateral flow of water within and and the lateral flow of water within and and off each peeling location at different off each peeling location at different off each peeling location at different spatial scales of course spatial scales of course spatial scales of course and so as i finally alluded to both of and so as i finally alluded to both of and so as i finally alluded to both of these projects are also aiming to build these projects are also aiming to build these projects are also aiming to build better and more robust peatland model better and more robust peatland model better and more robust peatland model representations and although the proof representations and although the proof representations and although the proof is in the pudding on site and we don't is in the pudding on site and we don't is in the pudding on site and we don't always have the resources to do always have the resources to do always have the resources to do everything everywhere so this is where everything everywhere so this is where everything everywhere so this is where models can come in handy so within the models can come in handy so within the models can come in handy so within the mothership project we're aiming to mothership project we're aiming to mothership project we're aiming to develop the um uk land surface model develop the um uk land surface model develop the um uk land surface model jewels jewels jewels that also then feeds into earth systems that also then feeds into earth systems that also then feeds into earth systems models and ultimately into the likes of models and ultimately into the likes of models and ultimately into the likes of ipcc assessments so we can really look ipcc assessments so we can really look ipcc assessments so we can really look at potential management and at potential management and at potential management and interventions and their impact on the interventions and their impact on the interventions and their impact on the long-term resilience of peatlands long-term resilience of peatlands long-term resilience of peatlands in in the long term in global terms not in in the long term in global terms not in in the long term in global terms not just um the uk and in a scottish context just um the uk and in a scottish context just um the uk and in a scottish context we we will use a more process based we we will use a more process based we we will use a more process based model called dndc to fine-tune the model called dndc to fine-tune the model called dndc to fine-tune the differences between um different differences between um different differences between um different bioclimatically different regions across bioclimatically different regions across bioclimatically different regions across scotland scotland scotland so i'll just um as a quick warning and so i'll just um as a quick warning and so i'll just um as a quick warning and this comes back to andrew's mention of this comes back to andrew's mention of this comes back to andrew's mention of going heavy and going now um so coming going heavy and going now um so coming going heavy and going now um so coming back to the start of my talk we know back to the start of my talk we know back to the start of my talk we know that we only have a very small remaining that we only have a very small remaining that we only have a very small remaining carbon budget to stay within 1.5 degrees carbon budget to stay within 1.5 degrees carbon budget to stay within 1.5 degrees celsius celsius celsius and i'm an optimist and i have a child and i'm an optimist and i have a child and i'm an optimist and i have a child and so i'd like to say we can do this and so i'd like to say we can do this and so i'd like to say we can do this um but the consequences of not doing um but the consequences of not doing um but the consequences of not doing this and not staying within 1.5 degrees this and not staying within 1.5 degrees this and not staying within 1.5 degrees is it's horrendous for humanity as a is it's horrendous for humanity as a is it's horrendous for humanity as a whole it's also a horrendous for um whole it's also a horrendous for um whole it's also a horrendous for um piglets piglets piglets so at the moment we're working on so at the moment we're working on so at the moment we're working on slightly out of date uh projections but slightly out of date uh projections but slightly out of date uh projections but this is work that we're picking up for this is work that we're picking up for this is work that we're picking up for example in the mothership project and example in the mothership project and example in the mothership project and with with our project partners that's to with with our project partners that's to with with our project partners that's to look at the fate of um peatlands in the look at the fate of um peatlands in the look at the fate of um peatlands in the uk and also um in europe um european uk and also um in europe um european uk and also um in europe um european peatlands alone store 42 gigatons of peatlands alone store 42 gigatons of peatlands alone store 42 gigatons of carbon the scottish peatlands store carbon the scottish peatlands store carbon the scottish peatlands store three and a half gigatons of carbon if three and a half gigatons of carbon if three and a half gigatons of carbon if you put that against the globally you put that against the globally you put that against the globally remaining carbon budget it's not good remaining carbon budget it's not good remaining carbon budget it's not good news news news and if you look at the projections with and if you look at the projections with and if you look at the projections with admittedly out of date and uk admittedly out of date and uk admittedly out of date and uk cp climate scenarios um you can see a cp climate scenarios um you can see a cp climate scenarios um you can see a distinct potential for um the available distinct potential for um the available distinct potential for um the available space for peatlands disappearing so space for peatlands disappearing so space for peatlands disappearing so these these images don't show these these images don't show these these images don't show disappearance of peatlands per se but disappearance of peatlands per se but disappearance of peatlands per se but they show disappearance of the they show disappearance of the they show disappearance of the conditions for peedlings to form so we conditions for peedlings to form so we conditions for peedlings to form so we are really racing against time and so are really racing against time and so are really racing against time and so that's why i wanted to stop we we know that's why i wanted to stop we we know that's why i wanted to stop we we know we've we've got to put diggers on we've we've got to put diggers on we've we've got to put diggers on payments and they use fossil fuel and payments and they use fossil fuel and payments and they use fossil fuel and but it does come back to what andrew but it does come back to what andrew but it does come back to what andrew mentioned so if we don't do this now mentioned so if we don't do this now mentioned so if we don't do this now we're running out of time and i have run we're running out of time and i have run we're running out of time and i have run out of time so i'm just summarizing this out of time so i'm just summarizing this out of time so i'm just summarizing this is what our work contributes and global is what our work contributes and global is what our work contributes and global efforts to understand current and future efforts to understand current and future efforts to understand current and future losses of carbon from peatlands the losses of carbon from peatlands the losses of carbon from peatlands the national efforts to calculate emission national efforts to calculate emission national efforts to calculate emission savings potential verifying also carbon savings potential verifying also carbon savings potential verifying also carbon credit schemes for example the peatland credit schemes for example the peatland credit schemes for example the peatland code and then ultimately um global code and then ultimately um global code and then ultimately um global efforts to model the future peters so i efforts to model the future peters so i efforts to model the future peters so i i have to give credit to an enormous i have to give credit to an enormous i have to give credit to an enormous team of people here who are part of team of people here who are part of team of people here who are part of these projects and so that's i'm just these projects and so that's i'm just these projects and so that's i'm just briefly shown showing them all and with briefly shown showing them all and with briefly shown showing them all and with that i would like to say thank you and that i would like to say thank you and that i would like to say thank you and i'm ready for your questions thank you very much rebecca that was a thank you very much rebecca that was a thank you very much rebecca that was a fantastic follow-on from from andrew's fantastic follow-on from from andrew's fantastic follow-on from from andrew's presentation and i think those two presentation and i think those two presentation and i think those two those two presentations together really those two presentations together really those two presentations together really do hit that message home that we you do hit that message home that we you do hit that message home that we you know we need to do something now and know we need to do something now and know we need to do something now and this is a this is a this is a a fantastic resource but you know a fantastic resource but you know a fantastic resource but you know ultimately a critical resource to get ultimately a critical resource to get ultimately a critical resource to get right in the future um so yeah so thank right in the future um so yeah so thank right in the future um so yeah so thank you both very much for those um i'm you both very much for those um i'm you both very much for those um i'm pleased now to to welcome izzy lloyd who pleased now to to welcome izzy lloyd who pleased now to to welcome izzy lloyd who is one of our early career committee is one of our early career committee is one of our early career committee members um izzy's been monitoring the members um izzy's been monitoring the members um izzy's been monitoring the questions you've been sending in questions you've been sending in questions you've been sending in um it's 12 50 now so hopefully you've um it's 12 50 now so hopefully you've um it's 12 50 now so hopefully you've got all your questions in um and got all your questions in um and got all your questions in um and hopefully you've got time to get through hopefully you've got time to get through hopefully you've got time to get through as many of them as possible so i'll hand as many of them as possible so i'll hand as many of them as possible so i'll hand over to you lizzy now over to you lizzy now over to you lizzy now great thank you yeah we've had loads of great thank you yeah we've had loads of great thank you yeah we've had loads of questions in the chat so um that's great questions in the chat so um that's great questions in the chat so um that's great thank you everyone for sending them in thank you everyone for sending them in thank you everyone for sending them in and thank you again rebecca and andrew and thank you again rebecca and andrew and thank you again rebecca and andrew they were really they were really they were really bad presentations um i'm going to start bad presentations um i'm going to start bad presentations um i'm going to start with this one that's come through um with this one that's come through um with this one that's come through um during andrew's um talk but rebecca of during andrew's um talk but rebecca of during andrew's um talk but rebecca of course if it applies to you as well course if it applies to you as well course if it applies to you as well please feel free to respond so the please feel free to respond so the please feel free to respond so the question is are there any implications question is are there any implications question is are there any implications for restoring peatlands directly after a for restoring peatlands directly after a for restoring peatlands directly after a tree felling event um for example if you tree felling event um for example if you tree felling event um for example if you were transforming forestry to a bog um were transforming forestry to a bog um were transforming forestry to a bog um whereas normally peatlands would be left whereas normally peatlands would be left whereas normally peatlands would be left alone for about three years so are there alone for about three years so are there alone for about three years so are there any kind of differences um in those any kind of differences um in those any kind of differences um in those scenarios scenarios scenarios yeah there is i think what we found from yeah there is i think what we found from yeah there is i think what we found from the point of view it depends on the crop the point of view it depends on the crop the point of view it depends on the crop growth if the crop growth has been good growth if the crop growth has been good growth if the crop growth has been good then you need to actually leave it for a then you need to actually leave it for a then you need to actually leave it for a while to to start the roots actually while to to start the roots actually while to to start the roots actually breaking down if the crop growth is breaking down if the crop growth is breaking down if the crop growth is being poor it's very easy to actually go being poor it's very easy to actually go being poor it's very easy to actually go in there and i think one of the in there and i think one of the in there and i think one of the techniques that i didn't talk about was techniques that i didn't talk about was techniques that i didn't talk about was um stump inversion we've done a lot more um stump inversion we've done a lot more um stump inversion we've done a lot more of that more recently and the results of that more recently and the results of that more recently and the results that have come from doing that have been that have come from doing that have been that have come from doing that have been quite outstanding they're just quite outstanding they're just quite outstanding they're just completely staggering again it's a bit completely staggering again it's a bit completely staggering again it's a bit like the emotion you look at it and you like the emotion you look at it and you like the emotion you look at it and you think crumbs is never going to come back think crumbs is never going to come back think crumbs is never going to come back but within a year you start seeing signs but within a year you start seeing signs but within a year you start seeing signs of bug vegetation so of bug vegetation so of bug vegetation so i think it's it's it's often it's quite i think it's it's it's often it's quite i think it's it's it's often it's quite difficult to to actually say difficult to to actually say difficult to to actually say i think one of the things that people i think one of the things that people i think one of the things that people are concerned people with um like the are concerned people with um like the are concerned people with um like the mulching particularly and also telling mulching particularly and also telling mulching particularly and also telling trees as well is what is the outputs trees as well is what is the outputs trees as well is what is the outputs from that from the point of view of um from that from the point of view of um from that from the point of view of um soil soil soil nutrients being lost nutrients being lost nutrients being lost but but but again i don't think there's been again i don't think there's been again i don't think there's been probably enough research done on that probably enough research done on that probably enough research done on that and that and but i suspect a lot of a and that and but i suspect a lot of a and that and but i suspect a lot of a lot of what's there is actually locked lot of what's there is actually locked lot of what's there is actually locked up because what like the picture i up because what like the picture i up because what like the picture i showed when you dug down below the wood showed when you dug down below the wood showed when you dug down below the wood was in perfect condition underneath and was in perfect condition underneath and was in perfect condition underneath and underneath that sphagnum so i suspect underneath that sphagnum so i suspect underneath that sphagnum so i suspect the acid conditions the higher water the acid conditions the higher water the acid conditions the higher water table and this this comes back to about table and this this comes back to about table and this this comes back to about hitting sites hard because if you if you hitting sites hard because if you if you hitting sites hard because if you if you have a water table that's fluctuating as have a water table that's fluctuating as have a water table that's fluctuating as rebecca was um saying with a methane rebecca was um saying with a methane rebecca was um saying with a methane that's when you start getting much more that's when you start getting much more that's when you start getting much more methane production i'll stop there let methane production i'll stop there let methane production i'll stop there let rework i say something yeah have you got anything to add on yeah have you got anything to add on yeah have you got anything to add on that rebecca that rebecca that rebecca not much to add other than yes there are not much to add other than yes there are not much to add other than yes there are there there there it's likely that there's immobilization it's likely that there's immobilization it's likely that there's immobilization of a lot of these nutrients especially of a lot of these nutrients especially of a lot of these nutrients especially if you do manage to get the water table if you do manage to get the water table if you do manage to get the water table up quite rapidly and what a lot of these up quite rapidly and what a lot of these up quite rapidly and what a lot of these sites have is a quite a depleted sites have is a quite a depleted sites have is a quite a depleted microbial biomass and so and especially microbial biomass and so and especially microbial biomass and so and especially if there's been a long-term change in in if there's been a long-term change in in if there's been a long-term change in in land use preceding a change so they're land use preceding a change so they're land use preceding a change so they're ready and waiting to immobilize ready and waiting to immobilize ready and waiting to immobilize nutrients nutrients nutrients oh brilliant oh brilliant oh brilliant i had another question um which again i had another question um which again i had another question um which again could um go to either of you um in the could um go to either of you um in the could um go to either of you um in the chat saying is there any work underway chat saying is there any work underway chat saying is there any work underway or are there any plans to engage or are there any plans to engage or are there any plans to engage government bodies and the scotch whiskey government bodies and the scotch whiskey government bodies and the scotch whiskey association to drive a change in the association to drive a change in the association to drive a change in the usage of pete in the whiskey industry usage of pete in the whiskey industry usage of pete in the whiskey industry i don't know who's best to take that one i don't know who's best to take that one i don't know who's best to take that one i'll i'll answer answer that because i i'll i'll answer answer that because i i'll i'll answer answer that because i actually um i'm working for a whiskey actually um i'm working for a whiskey actually um i'm working for a whiskey company at the moment and yes it's very company at the moment and yes it's very company at the moment and yes it's very much high on the agenda and not it's much high on the agenda and not it's much high on the agenda and not it's looking they already have looked at how looking they already have looked at how looking they already have looked at how much peak they use and using that peaked much peak they use and using that peaked much peak they use and using that peaked efficiently and the long-term way efficiently and the long-term way efficiently and the long-term way that pete is harvested and also that pete is harvested and also that pete is harvested and also peatland restoration well so peatland restoration well so peatland restoration well so certain certain certain companies within um the scottish whiskey companies within um the scottish whiskey companies within um the scottish whiskey industry are already doing that and industry are already doing that and industry are already doing that and establishing sites where peatland establishing sites where peatland establishing sites where peatland restoration is taking place and looking restoration is taking place and looking restoration is taking place and looking at the whole process because it like for at the whole process because it like for at the whole process because it like for all industries it's not just about one all industries it's not just about one all industries it's not just about one aspect of what you're actually doing aspect of what you're actually doing aspect of what you're actually doing it's the whole carbon aspect of any it's the whole carbon aspect of any it's the whole carbon aspect of any business we had um a question for you during your we had um a question for you during your we had um a question for you during your talk rebecca um regarding the greenhouse talk rebecca um regarding the greenhouse talk rebecca um regarding the greenhouse gas emissions um so someone's asked the gas emissions um so someone's asked the gas emissions um so someone's asked the biggest losses of greenhouse gas biggest losses of greenhouse gas biggest losses of greenhouse gas emissions from peat appear to be from emissions from peat appear to be from emissions from peat appear to be from intensively managed areas that are under intensively managed areas that are under intensively managed areas that are under crop and intensive grassland and the crop and intensive grassland and the crop and intensive grassland and the person is asking if most of these sites person is asking if most of these sites person is asking if most of these sites are outside scotland um so yes to a degree the um so yes to a degree the um so yes to a degree the the worst offenders if you like in terms the worst offenders if you like in terms the worst offenders if you like in terms of net emissions are um are outside of of net emissions are um are outside of of net emissions are um are outside of scotland but um what what is important scotland but um what what is important scotland but um what what is important to note is the relative area so um to note is the relative area so um to note is the relative area so um while scotland may not have that much while scotland may not have that much while scotland may not have that much cropland on pete or intensive grassland cropland on pete or intensive grassland cropland on pete or intensive grassland on page what what is um prevalent is the on page what what is um prevalent is the on page what what is um prevalent is the kind of intermediate and degradation kind of intermediate and degradation kind of intermediate and degradation area so we have around 300 000 hectares area so we have around 300 000 hectares area so we have around 300 000 hectares of eroded peatland we've got probably of eroded peatland we've got probably of eroded peatland we've got probably a few tens of thousands of a few tens of thousands of a few tens of thousands of extensive grassland possibly extensive grassland possibly extensive grassland possibly and we also have a very very in large and we also have a very very in large and we also have a very very in large area of formerly drained um and now area of formerly drained um and now area of formerly drained um and now quite heather dominated or grass quite heather dominated or grass quite heather dominated or grass dominated peatlands so these numbers add dominated peatlands so these numbers add dominated peatlands so these numbers add up so while the multiplier is perhaps up so while the multiplier is perhaps up so while the multiplier is perhaps not as large as the area that is is very not as large as the area that is is very not as large as the area that is is very large large large um um um um i've got another question that's um i've got another question that's um i've got another question that's actually my question um again regarding actually my question um again regarding actually my question um again regarding the greenhouse gas emissions i was just the greenhouse gas emissions i was just the greenhouse gas emissions i was just wondering um wondering um wondering um kind of how soon after beginning a kind of how soon after beginning a kind of how soon after beginning a restoration process do you expect to see restoration process do you expect to see restoration process do you expect to see a change in emissions is it quite sudden a change in emissions is it quite sudden a change in emissions is it quite sudden or a lengthy process or a lengthy process or a lengthy process so this is where one of the big data so this is where one of the big data so this is where one of the big data gaps is so i think as i said in the talk gaps is so i think as i said in the talk gaps is so i think as i said in the talk most of the monitoring has been carried most of the monitoring has been carried most of the monitoring has been carried out on sites that are either already out on sites that are either already out on sites that are either already converted or are still in the starting converted or are still in the starting converted or are still in the starting condition so condition so condition so this is kind of where some of our this is kind of where some of our this is kind of where some of our efforts are now um concentrated and efforts are now um concentrated and efforts are now um concentrated and really fleshing that out from the data really fleshing that out from the data really fleshing that out from the data we've looked at so far um we've looked at so far um we've looked at so far um there is a suggestion that the change is there is a suggestion that the change is there is a suggestion that the change is quite rapid so um the very early quite rapid so um the very early quite rapid so um the very early restoration years we have relatively few restoration years we have relatively few restoration years we have relatively few data on but there's a reasonable body of data on but there's a reasonable body of data on but there's a reasonable body of evidence for data are three years or evidence for data are three years or evidence for data are three years or older post restoration and those are um older post restoration and those are um older post restoration and those are um the emissions settle down very quickly the emissions settle down very quickly the emissions settle down very quickly the the the exception is where a lot of biomass has exception is where a lot of biomass has exception is where a lot of biomass has been put onto the site either the brush been put onto the site either the brush been put onto the site either the brush material from from forestry for example material from from forestry for example material from from forestry for example so that has takes a little while to so that has takes a little while to so that has takes a little while to decompose and it may be a there may be a decompose and it may be a there may be a decompose and it may be a there may be a five-year period during which that brush five-year period during which that brush five-year period during which that brush decomposition adds a little bit to the decomposition adds a little bit to the decomposition adds a little bit to the to the emissions burden um but yeah the to the emissions burden um but yeah the to the emissions burden um but yeah the question people often ask is uh what question people often ask is uh what question people often ask is uh what about methane do you get um a lot of about methane do you get um a lot of about methane do you get um a lot of methane transient methane losses and the methane transient methane losses and the methane transient methane losses and the answer is we don't know for sure but answer is we don't know for sure but answer is we don't know for sure but there there isn't and there there isn't and there there isn't and there isn't a very strong evidence for there isn't a very strong evidence for there isn't a very strong evidence for exception like absolutely high methane exception like absolutely high methane exception like absolutely high methane losses except for when the side water losses except for when the side water losses except for when the side water table isn't managed very well so if you table isn't managed very well so if you table isn't managed very well so if you see sites that are see sites that are see sites that are completely flooded yes then you do see a completely flooded yes then you do see a completely flooded yes then you do see a lot of methane emissions and if there's lot of methane emissions and if there's lot of methane emissions and if there's um kind of fluctuating temporary um kind of fluctuating temporary um kind of fluctuating temporary inundation those sites tend to also be inundation those sites tend to also be inundation those sites tend to also be quite high in in net methane emissions quite high in in net methane emissions quite high in in net methane emissions and that can flip the net budget even and that can flip the net budget even and that can flip the net budget even under re-wetting back into a net carbon under re-wetting back into a net carbon under re-wetting back into a net carbon limiting site limiting site limiting site oh wow amazing really interesting oh wow amazing really interesting oh wow amazing really interesting um we've had a good question which i um we've had a good question which i um we've had a good question which i think is maybe a nice one to end on think is maybe a nice one to end on think is maybe a nice one to end on because we are coming um up to time now because we are coming um up to time now because we are coming um up to time now and again um an open one for both of you and again um an open one for both of you and again um an open one for both of you um is there a capacity building platform um is there a capacity building platform um is there a capacity building platform where aspiring young scientists can have where aspiring young scientists can have where aspiring young scientists can have information and learn about people and information and learn about people and information and learn about people and restoration and i suppose we could restoration and i suppose we could restoration and i suppose we could extend that question to just anybody extend that question to just anybody extend that question to just anybody who's interested so um i'll start with who's interested so um i'll start with who's interested so um i'll start with you andrew have you got any good you andrew have you got any good you andrew have you got any good resources that you could direct people resources that you could direct people resources that you could direct people towards if they want to know more i towards if they want to know more i towards if they want to know more i think i would direct people to the think i would direct people to the think i would direct people to the peatland action website because it has peatland action website because it has peatland action website because it has got a very wide range of information got a very wide range of information got a very wide range of information it's got information about restoration it's got information about restoration it's got information about restoration techniques it's got contact details it's techniques it's got contact details it's techniques it's got contact details it's also got access to their training that also got access to their training that also got access to their training that they do as well so i think that that they do as well so i think that that they do as well so i think that that that is a very good resource that is a very good resource that is a very good resource brilliant have you got any rebecca brilliant have you got any rebecca brilliant have you got any rebecca before we wrap up before we wrap up before we wrap up i was going to say the same but i was i was going to say the same but i was i was going to say the same but i was also going to take it away with me as an also going to take it away with me as an also going to take it away with me as an action point so with another hat on um action point so with another hat on um action point so with another hat on um there there are two there there are two there there are two um bodies that effectively sit around um bodies that effectively sit around um bodies that effectively sit around the table and which include um all of the table and which include um all of the table and which include um all of the major stakeholders in this um so the the major stakeholders in this um so the the major stakeholders in this um so the national peatland plan group includes national peatland plan group includes national peatland plan group includes the the the the major policymakers the scottish win the major policymakers the scottish win the major policymakers the scottish win whiskey industry etc but there's also a whiskey industry etc but there's also a whiskey industry etc but there's also a smaller team which is the uh smaller team which is the uh smaller team which is the uh national peatland research and national peatland research and national peatland research and management group and uh it might be an management group and uh it might be an management group and uh it might be an interesting one if we if we see if interesting one if we if we see if interesting one if we if we see if there's a series of there's a series of there's a series of resources that could be compiled that resources that could be compiled that resources that could be compiled that way because yeah i was going to say the way because yeah i was going to say the way because yeah i was going to say the same people in faction is probably the same people in faction is probably the same people in faction is probably the the easiest routine the easiest routine the easiest routine brilliant definitely definitely one for brilliant definitely definitely one for brilliant definitely definitely one for everybody to check out but it looks like everybody to check out but it looks like everybody to check out but it looks like we've already got a minute left so i'm we've already got a minute left so i'm we've already got a minute left so i'm going to hand back to bruce to wrap up going to hand back to bruce to wrap up going to hand back to bruce to wrap up and just say thank you again for both of and just say thank you again for both of and just say thank you again for both of your talks they're fantastic your talks they're fantastic your talks they're fantastic thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you brilliant thank thank you easy so yeah brilliant thank thank you easy so yeah brilliant thank thank you easy so yeah so just finally on behalf of the british so just finally on behalf of the british so just finally on behalf of the british society of saw science i i would like to society of saw science i i would like to society of saw science i i would like to express our thanks to andrew and rebecca express our thanks to andrew and rebecca express our thanks to andrew and rebecca for coming along to present today on a for coming along to present today on a for coming along to present today on a fantastic topic uh and yourself izzy for fantastic topic uh and yourself izzy for fantastic topic uh and yourself izzy for coordinating the the q a session coordinating the the q a session coordinating the the q a session uh and also thank you to visit britain uh and also thank you to visit britain uh and also thank you to visit britain and nature scott for supporting this and nature scott for supporting this and nature scott for supporting this webinar and for patricia's introduction webinar and for patricia's introduction webinar and for patricia's introduction at the start i'm sorry at the start um at the start i'm sorry at the start um at the start i'm sorry at the start um and and thank you to all for attending and and thank you to all for attending and and thank you to all for attending you'll find a a quick feedback survey you'll find a a quick feedback survey you'll find a a quick feedback survey when you leave the webinar which we hope when you leave the webinar which we hope when you leave the webinar which we hope you'll find time to complete because the you'll find time to complete because the you'll find time to complete because the the information feedback you give just the information feedback you give just the information feedback you give just help us to help us to help us to fine-tune these going forward uh the fine-tune these going forward uh the fine-tune these going forward uh the recording um of this session will be recording um of this session will be recording um of this session will be available after the event on our youtube available after the event on our youtube available after the event on our youtube channel channel channel and during this year we're running eight and during this year we're running eight and during this year we're running eight zoom into store webinars and the next zoom into store webinars and the next zoom into store webinars and the next one is taking place on wednesday the one is taking place on wednesday the one is taking place on wednesday the fourth of may and it'll look at how fourth of may and it'll look at how fourth of may and it'll look at how soils are a record of our past so again soils are a record of our past so again soils are a record of our past so again another very interesting topic coming up another very interesting topic coming up another very interesting topic coming up um and that webinar is now available for um and that webinar is now available for um and that webinar is now available for registration via our website registration via our website registration via our website and we'll also send a link out in our and we'll also send a link out in our and we'll also send a link out in our follow-up email follow-up email follow-up email so just wait and i hope to see you at so just wait and i hope to see you at so just wait and i hope to see you at future events and in the meantime thank future events and in the meantime thank future events and in the meantime thank you again and goodbye
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An Introduction to Soil-Water Transfers

2026-05-29T14:08:44Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = An Introduction to Soil-Water Transfers
| Producteur = British Society of Soil Science
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_YJpnpt8X-go.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2014-08-24
| Durée = 6 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJpnpt8X-go
| Mots-clés = soil, soils, science, environment, geography, geology, earth science, soil science, ecology, Lancaster University (College/University), nutrients, contamination, Eden Catchment
}}

Prof. Phil Haygarth from Lancaster University gives an introduction to Soil-Water Transfer.

These videos were produced via funding from a NERC Doctoral Training Programme in collaboration with Lancaster University, The James Hutton Institute and the British Society of Soil Science.

The British Society of Soil Science is an established international membership organisation and charity committed to the study of soil in its widest aspects. It is funded primarily through subscriptions and income from publications. The Society acts as a forum for the exchange of ideas and provides a framework for representing the views of soil scientists to other organisations and decision making bodies. It promotes research by organising several conferences each year and by the publication of its two scientific journals, the European Journal of Soil Science, and Soil Use and Management. It promotes education through a number of initiatives aimed at schools, colleges and universities. The Society has a regular and varied programme of scientific conferences on a wide range of soil-related issues.

The British Society of Soil Science encourages anyone with an interest in soil, whether this interest lies in the soil itself or its wider use within the environment, to join the society. There is a small membership fee, with discounts for students and those from low income countries.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = water water water it's our life source and we're expected it's our life source and we're expected it's our life source and we're expected to look after it by 2027 to look after it by 2027 to look after it by 2027 the European Union expects all water the European Union expects all water the European Union expects all water bodies to have good ecological status bodies to have good ecological status bodies to have good ecological status but the Environment Agency of England but the Environment Agency of England but the Environment Agency of England and Wales estimates that around 30 and Wales estimates that around 30 and Wales estimates that around 30 percent of water bodies are currently percent of water bodies are currently percent of water bodies are currently failing due to agriculture agricultural failing due to agriculture agricultural failing due to agriculture agricultural soils contribute approximately 60% of soils contribute approximately 60% of soils contribute approximately 60% of nitrates 25 percent of the phosphorus nitrates 25 percent of the phosphorus nitrates 25 percent of the phosphorus and 75 percent of the sediments that and 75 percent of the sediments that and 75 percent of the sediments that enter our water bodies with a resulting enter our water bodies with a resulting enter our water bodies with a resulting impact on ecology and public water impact on ecology and public water impact on ecology and public water supply the enrichment of waters due to supply the enrichment of waters due to supply the enrichment of waters due to nutrients is called eutrophication my nutrients is called eutrophication my nutrients is called eutrophication my name's Phil hey Garth and I'm professor name's Phil hey Garth and I'm professor name's Phil hey Garth and I'm professor of soil and water sciences at Lancaster of soil and water sciences at Lancaster of soil and water sciences at Lancaster University in the UK nutrients are University in the UK nutrients are University in the UK nutrients are essential for our food production but essential for our food production but essential for our food production but they also causes problems I'm going to they also causes problems I'm going to they also causes problems I'm going to show you how nutrients can leave show you how nutrients can leave show you how nutrients can leave farmland and make their way into farmland and make their way into farmland and make their way into waterways you'll learn about the central waterways you'll learn about the central waterways you'll learn about the central role that soil plays in processing this role that soil plays in processing this role that soil plays in processing this and I call this journey the transfer and I call this journey the transfer and I call this journey the transfer continuum let's start that journey in order to meet the demands of normal in order to meet the demands of normal in order to meet the demands of normal modern food production farming needs to modern food production farming needs to modern food production farming needs to use fertilizer nutrients nitrogen and use fertilizer nutrients nitrogen and use fertilizer nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus to enhance crop production phosphorus to enhance crop production phosphorus to enhance crop production the farmer makes a choice about how much the farmer makes a choice about how much the farmer makes a choice about how much to apply to the land which is supposed to apply to the land which is supposed to apply to the land which is supposed to match the crop demand if the input to match the crop demand if the input to match the crop demand if the input exceeds the crop demand it will exceeds the crop demand it will exceeds the crop demand it will accumulate in the soil and if this accumulate in the soil and if this accumulate in the soil and if this continues in the long term the soil continues in the long term the soil continues in the long term the soil accumulates nutrients nutrient sources accumulates nutrients nutrient sources accumulates nutrients nutrient sources can also come into the farm via feed can also come into the farm via feed can also come into the farm via feed concentrates like this that are fed to concentrates like this that are fed to concentrates like this that are fed to livestock like these dairy cows and livestock like these dairy cows and livestock like these dairy cows and because their dung and their manure because their dung and their manure because their dung and their manure ultimately ends up in the soil these ultimately ends up in the soil these ultimately ends up in the soil these nutrients also need to be accounted for nutrients also need to be accounted for nutrients also need to be accounted for as part of the farm nutrient balance so as part of the farm nutrient balance so as part of the farm nutrient balance so the sources represent a potential the sources represent a potential the sources represent a potential reservoir for onward transfer through reservoir for onward transfer through reservoir for onward transfer through the continuum to the next step the continuum to the next step the continuum to the next step mobilization mobilization describes the start of the mobilization describes the start of the mobilization describes the start of the journey of the substances as they leave journey of the substances as they leave journey of the substances as they leave the farm the soil is the central the farm the soil is the central the farm the soil is the central processor for this there are three types processor for this there are three types processor for this there are three types of mobilization when soil is bare either of mobilization when soil is bare either of mobilization when soil is bare either through tillage or through trampling by through tillage or through trampling by through tillage or through trampling by livestock like this it's very likely to livestock like this it's very likely to livestock like this it's very likely to become washed away or eroded when the become washed away or eroded when the become washed away or eroded when the soil becomes compacted the rainfall that soil becomes compacted the rainfall that soil becomes compacted the rainfall that hits the surface is more likely to hits the surface is more likely to hits the surface is more likely to channelize and therefore and train channelize and therefore and train channelize and therefore and train particles when this happens we call it particles when this happens we call it particles when this happens we call it mobilization by physical detachment the mobilization by physical detachment the mobilization by physical detachment the actual removal of soil and sediment with actual removal of soil and sediment with actual removal of soil and sediment with nutrients and other potential polluting nutrients and other potential polluting nutrients and other potential polluting substances attached a second form of substances attached a second form of substances attached a second form of mobilization is called solubalization mobilization is called solubalization mobilization is called solubalization and this involves the leaching of and this involves the leaching of and this involves the leaching of nutrients by chemical and biological nutrients by chemical and biological nutrients by chemical and biological processes from within the soil processes from within the soil processes from within the soil chemically when soils exceed their chemically when soils exceed their chemically when soils exceed their sorption capacity they can actually sorption capacity they can actually sorption capacity they can actually release nutrients more likely into release nutrients more likely into release nutrients more likely into solution but there's also biological solution but there's also biological solution but there's also biological processes called mineralization which processes called mineralization which processes called mineralization which also release nutrients into soil the also release nutrients into soil the also release nutrients into soil the interplay between the biology and the interplay between the biology and the interplay between the biology and the chemistry is complex and there's a very chemistry is complex and there's a very chemistry is complex and there's a very fine line between mineralizing enough fine line between mineralizing enough fine line between mineralizing enough nutrients so that the crops can get what nutrients so that the crops can get what nutrients so that the crops can get what they need and not solubilizing enough they need and not solubilizing enough they need and not solubilizing enough nutrient so that it leeches off to water nutrient so that it leeches off to water nutrient so that it leeches off to water a final and easily overlooked form of a final and easily overlooked form of a final and easily overlooked form of mobilization is when fertilizer or mobilization is when fertilizer or mobilization is when fertilizer or manure is spread on the soil surface but manure is spread on the soil surface but manure is spread on the soil surface but gets washed away before it is gets washed away before it is gets washed away before it is equilibrated into the soil these are equilibrated into the soil these are equilibrated into the soil these are called incidental losses the third part of the journey is called the third part of the journey is called the third part of the journey is called delivery this is the part that connects delivery this is the part that connects delivery this is the part that connects the mobilization from the soil to the the mobilization from the soil to the the mobilization from the soil to the river delivery involves substances being river delivery involves substances being river delivery involves substances being washed across all through the soil with washed across all through the soil with washed across all through the soil with flowing water when the surface is flowing water when the surface is flowing water when the surface is impermeable often with depressions or impermeable often with depressions or impermeable often with depressions or hollows overland flow pathways develop hollows overland flow pathways develop hollows overland flow pathways develop which can come and go depending on the which can come and go depending on the which can come and go depending on the intensity of rainfall and runoff as well intensity of rainfall and runoff as well intensity of rainfall and runoff as well as the nature of the soil surface it's as the nature of the soil surface it's as the nature of the soil surface it's easy to forget that as well as over the easy to forget that as well as over the easy to forget that as well as over the surface delivery can also occur through surface delivery can also occur through surface delivery can also occur through the soil the soil the soil perhaps through cracks or macro pores or perhaps through cracks or macro pores or perhaps through cracks or macro pores or through the permeable geology underneath finding a solution to the problem is not finding a solution to the problem is not finding a solution to the problem is not easy when the effects on rivers lakes or easy when the effects on rivers lakes or easy when the effects on rivers lakes or estuaries might be many miles away and estuaries might be many miles away and estuaries might be many miles away and many years later than the start of the many years later than the start of the many years later than the start of the journey here in the River Eden Valley journey here in the River Eden Valley journey here in the River Eden Valley we've started a long-term monitoring we've started a long-term monitoring we've started a long-term monitoring program to study the nutrients in the program to study the nutrients in the program to study the nutrients in the river and work with local farmers to river and work with local farmers to river and work with local farmers to find solutions together so we've been find solutions together so we've been find solutions together so we've been taking some samples to some equipment in taking some samples to some equipment in taking some samples to some equipment in that box six samples every 15 minutes that box six samples every 15 minutes that box six samples every 15 minutes this involves thinking about reducing this involves thinking about reducing this involves thinking about reducing sources to match crop demand accounting sources to match crop demand accounting sources to match crop demand accounting for the fertilizer value of manure and for the fertilizer value of manure and for the fertilizer value of manure and mitigating the detachment of soil or the mitigating the detachment of soil or the mitigating the detachment of soil or the solubilization of nutrients here is an solubilization of nutrients here is an solubilization of nutrients here is an example of where we have installed some example of where we have installed some example of where we have installed some mitigation features to help slow down mitigation features to help slow down mitigation features to help slow down the delivery effectively through the delivery effectively through the delivery effectively through trapping the flowing water so sediment trapping the flowing water so sediment trapping the flowing water so sediment can settle out if we're to meet European standards we if we're to meet European standards we if we're to meet European standards we need to adopt the holistic source need to adopt the holistic source need to adopt the holistic source mobilization delivery impact continuum mobilization delivery impact continuum mobilization delivery impact continuum model and recognize the central role model and recognize the central role model and recognize the central role that song plays at the heart of this that song plays at the heart of this that song plays at the heart of this this will give us the best chance to this will give us the best chance to this will give us the best chance to maximize food security and minimize the maximize food security and minimize the maximize food security and minimize the effects on water quality you
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Working With Soil Training Course (Exposing and Describing a Soil Profile)

2026-05-29T14:08:39Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Working With Soil Training Course (Exposing and Describing a Soil Profile)
| Producteur = British Society of Soil Science
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_sUcb8pSaeOI.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2017-05-09
| Durée = 2 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUcb8pSaeOI
| Mots-clés = soil, soils, science, environment, geography, geology, earth science, soil science, ecology
}}

The British Society of Soil Science is an established international membership organisation and charity committed to the study of soil in its widest aspects. It is funded primarily through subscriptions and income from publications. The Society acts as a forum for the exchange of ideas and provides a framework for representing the views of soil scientists to other organisations and decision making bodies. It promotes research by organising several conferences each year and by the publication of its two scientific journals, the European Journal of Soil Science, and Soil Use and Management. It promotes education through a number of initiatives aimed at schools, colleges and universities. The Society has a regular and varied programme of scientific conferences on a wide range of soil-related issues.

The British Society of Soil Science encourages anyone with an interest in soil, whether this interest lies in the soil itself or its wider use within the environment, to join the society. There is a small membership fee, with discounts for students and those from low income countries.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = the course that we're running today is the course that we're running today is the course that we're running today is aimed at anybody who's going to be aimed at anybody who's going to be aimed at anybody who's going to be working with sores in the field and that working with sores in the field and that working with sores in the field and that covers a vast range of disciplines at covers a vast range of disciplines at covers a vast range of disciplines at all the whole land-based sector all the whole land-based sector all the whole land-based sector essentially I came on the course because essentially I came on the course because essentially I came on the course because I recently got a jobs working as a I recently got a jobs working as a I recently got a jobs working as a graduate full of scientists my course graduate full of scientists my course graduate full of scientists my course was geology and geography feel though it was geology and geography feel though it was geology and geography feel though it it sort of incorporated a bit of silly it sort of incorporated a bit of silly it sort of incorporated a bit of silly legend when you have a particularly legend when you have a particularly legend when you have a particularly large soil focus and I found that I just large soil focus and I found that I just large soil focus and I found that I just really needed to get that for the really needed to get that for the really needed to get that for the foundation that I didn't get from my foundation that I didn't get from my foundation that I didn't get from my degree one of the things I wanted to do degree one of the things I wanted to do degree one of the things I wanted to do particularly well to get my hands dirty particularly well to get my hands dirty particularly well to get my hands dirty and actually look at the soil to tell and actually look at the soil to tell and actually look at the soil to tell difference by looking at it the program difference by looking at it the program difference by looking at it the program for the day is to work inside in the for the day is to work inside in the for the day is to work inside in the morning and learn all the techniques for morning and learn all the techniques for morning and learn all the techniques for describing the various key saw describing the various key saw describing the various key saw properties and then they everybody goes properties and then they everybody goes properties and then they everybody goes out in the field in the afternoon to dig out in the field in the afternoon to dig out in the field in the afternoon to dig their own pit and then apply the their own pit and then apply the their own pit and then apply the knowledge they've learned in the morning knowledge they've learned in the morning knowledge they've learned in the morning and produce a proper saw description the and produce a proper saw description the and produce a proper saw description the scheme covers what we call the scheme covers what we call the scheme covers what we call the foundation skills which are basically foundation skills which are basically foundation skills which are basically going out in the field and describing a going out in the field and describing a going out in the field and describing a soil consistently and interpreting what soil consistently and interpreting what soil consistently and interpreting what we what you find in the soil profile we what you find in the soil profile we what you find in the soil profile through to more advanced types of work through to more advanced types of work through to more advanced types of work such as agricultural land classification such as agricultural land classification such as agricultural land classification and soul restoration and handling and and soul restoration and handling and and soul restoration and handling and then applying soil science to areas of then applying soil science to areas of then applying soil science to areas of work such as integrated support work such as integrated support work such as integrated support catchment management and wildlife catchment management and wildlife catchment management and wildlife habitat management and by the end of the habitat management and by the end of the habitat management and by the end of the day and they should be fit they've got day and they should be fit they've got day and they should be fit they've got their manual so they should that they're their manual so they should that they're their manual so they should that they're better go away and apply what they've better go away and apply what they've better go away and apply what they've learned in the course of their normal learned in the course of their normal learned in the course of their normal work we manufacture products for urban work we manufacture products for urban work we manufacture products for urban tree planting along with that we supply tree planting along with that we supply tree planting along with that we supply the soil so I'm involved in buying soil the soil so I'm involved in buying soil the soil so I'm involved in buying soil I'm dealing with quarries and soil I'm dealing with quarries and soil I'm dealing with quarries and soil manufactures I need to know what I'm manufactures I need to know what I'm manufactures I need to know what I'm talking about talking about talking about so yes it's been helpful to be able to so yes it's been helpful to be able to so yes it's been helpful to be able to tell difference between different soil tell difference between different soil tell difference between different soil this is really good to just sort of this is really good to just sort of this is really good to just sort of consolidate my learning I've also done a consolidate my learning I've also done a consolidate my learning I've also done a lot of learning within my company but to lot of learning within my company but to lot of learning within my company but to get an outside view as well is really get an outside view as well is really get an outside view as well is really interesting
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Rain Gardens

2026-05-29T14:08:35Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Rain Gardens
| Producteur = AmericanRivers
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_JlScj9yN6Jw.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2006-10-25
| Durée = 11 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlScj9yN6Jw
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL, Green and blue infrastructures
}}

A rain garden is an attractive landscaping feature planted with perennial native plants. It is a bowl-shaped garden, designed to absorb stormwater run-off from impervious surfaces such as roofs and parking lots. http://www.raingardens.org

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = [Music] a rain Garden can be a beautiful a rain Garden can be a beautiful a rain Garden can be a beautiful addition to your landscape it attracts addition to your landscape it attracts addition to your landscape it attracts birds and butterflies and it's easy to birds and butterflies and it's easy to birds and butterflies and it's easy to install and maintain It's Not Just install and maintain It's Not Just install and maintain It's Not Just Flowers it's a rain Garden a beautiful Flowers it's a rain Garden a beautiful Flowers it's a rain Garden a beautiful solution to water [Music] ution storm water runoff creates ution storm water runoff creates ution storm water runoff creates problems in the water cycle the cycle of problems in the water cycle the cycle of problems in the water cycle the cycle of water moving and being stored on the water moving and being stored on the water moving and being stored on the earth starts out as rain as everybody earth starts out as rain as everybody earth starts out as rain as everybody knows or snow no falls to the ground knows or snow no falls to the ground knows or snow no falls to the ground it'll hit a vegetated area like grass or it'll hit a vegetated area like grass or it'll hit a vegetated area like grass or a farm field when it hits that then the a farm field when it hits that then the a farm field when it hits that then the water infiltrates into the soil moves water infiltrates into the soil moves water infiltrates into the soil moves through the ground and finds its way to through the ground and finds its way to through the ground and finds its way to a river a stream or a lake as soon as it a river a stream or a lake as soon as it a river a stream or a lake as soon as it hits pavement it'll immediately run off hits pavement it'll immediately run off hits pavement it'll immediately run off um and that'll end up usually in a storm um and that'll end up usually in a storm um and that'll end up usually in a storm sewer which goes to a sewer which goes to a sewer which goes to a river the Great Lakes Basin is one of river the Great Lakes Basin is one of river the Great Lakes Basin is one of the largest freshwater systems in the the largest freshwater systems in the the largest freshwater systems in the world World about 20% of the world's world World about 20% of the world's world World about 20% of the world's fresh surface water is stored here which fresh surface water is stored here which fresh surface water is stored here which is about 90% of the fresh surface water is about 90% of the fresh surface water is about 90% of the fresh surface water in the United in the United in the United States up to 70% of pollution in our States up to 70% of pollution in our States up to 70% of pollution in our surface waters is carried there by storm surface waters is carried there by storm surface waters is carried there by storm water and much of this comes from the water and much of this comes from the water and much of this comes from the things we do in our yards streets and things we do in our yards streets and things we do in our yards streets and parking lots well if you go downtown and parking lots well if you go downtown and parking lots well if you go downtown and stand on the roof of a building and look stand on the roof of a building and look stand on the roof of a building and look around everything you see around you around everything you see around you around everything you see around you will be hard surfaces so anytime a drop will be hard surfaces so anytime a drop will be hard surfaces so anytime a drop of rain falls on a roof or a sidewalk or of rain falls on a roof or a sidewalk or of rain falls on a roof or a sidewalk or a parking lot it gathers with other a parking lot it gathers with other a parking lot it gathers with other raindrops and it creates something raindrops and it creates something raindrops and it creates something called sheet flow and the water runs to called sheet flow and the water runs to called sheet flow and the water runs to the low spot by gravity for the most part people think gravity for the most part people think gravity for the most part people think that that stuff just you know after a that that stuff just you know after a that that stuff just you know after a rainstorm all the stuff in the parking rainstorm all the stuff in the parking rainstorm all the stuff in the parking lot will just end up going the way s our lot will just end up going the way s our lot will just end up going the way s our treatment plant but that in fact is not treatment plant but that in fact is not treatment plant but that in fact is not true almost all of it will go to a storm true almost all of it will go to a storm true almost all of it will go to a storm sewer and it won't get treated and it'll sewer and it won't get treated and it'll sewer and it won't get treated and it'll go directly to the river and those go directly to the river and those go directly to the river and those aquatic organisms are not well adapted aquatic organisms are not well adapted aquatic organisms are not well adapted to the salts the heavy metals oil to the salts the heavy metals oil to the salts the heavy metals oil antifreeze any of that stuff we don't antifreeze any of that stuff we don't antifreeze any of that stuff we don't want streams and rivers in lakes with want streams and rivers in lakes with want streams and rivers in lakes with signs up that say unsafe for bodily signs up that say unsafe for bodily signs up that say unsafe for bodily contact you know that's a place where contact you know that's a place where contact you know that's a place where where the water is not safe for people where the water is not safe for people where the water is not safe for people um it's not safe for anything if you put um it's not safe for anything if you put um it's not safe for anything if you put an inch rain on an acre of property and an inch rain on an acre of property and an inch rain on an acre of property and if that property is is asphalt or if that property is is asphalt or if that property is is asphalt or concrete that one acre collects over concrete that one acre collects over concrete that one acre collects over 27,000 gallons of water that goes into a 27,000 gallons of water that goes into a 27,000 gallons of water that goes into a pipe and goes into the river so you can pipe and goes into the river so you can pipe and goes into the river so you can imagine in the city of Grand Rapids imagine in the city of Grand Rapids imagine in the city of Grand Rapids where we have all of these hard surfaces where we have all of these hard surfaces where we have all of these hard surfaces there's lots and lots and lots of water there's lots and lots and lots of water there's lots and lots and lots of water that's collected and channeled into the that's collected and channeled into the that's collected and channeled into the Grand River when the water runs across Grand River when the water runs across Grand River when the water runs across the parking lot or the street or the the parking lot or the street or the the parking lot or the street or the sidewalk all of that stuff from our sidewalk all of that stuff from our sidewalk all of that stuff from our careless axe gets collected and gets put careless axe gets collected and gets put careless axe gets collected and gets put into the river so if we can stop the into the river so if we can stop the into the river so if we can stop the water from doing that then we have water from doing that then we have water from doing that then we have stopped that source of pollution going stopped that source of pollution going stopped that source of pollution going into the river rainwater wasn't meant to into the river rainwater wasn't meant to into the river rainwater wasn't meant to run off our lands rain Gardens are run off our lands rain Gardens are run off our lands rain Gardens are designed to retain absorb and filter designed to retain absorb and filter designed to retain absorb and filter rainwater one of the things that make rainwater one of the things that make rainwater one of the things that make rain Gardens different from traditional rain Gardens different from traditional rain Gardens different from traditional Gardens is that rain Gardens feature the Gardens is that rain Gardens feature the Gardens is that rain Gardens feature the use of perennial plants native to our use of perennial plants native to our use of perennial plants native to our region some traditional non-native region some traditional non-native region some traditional non-native plants may also be used once you get the plants may also be used once you get the plants may also be used once you get the native plants established they don't native plants established they don't native plants established they don't have to be fertilized they don't have to have to be fertilized they don't have to have to be fertilized they don't have to have pesticides have pesticides have pesticides they need little or no watering once they need little or no watering once they need little or no watering once they're established whereas other they're established whereas other they're established whereas other perennials uh really need to be babied perennials uh really need to be babied perennials uh really need to be babied and they're susceptible to a lot of and they're susceptible to a lot of and they're susceptible to a lot of diseases and insects and things like diseases and insects and things like diseases and insects and things like that whereas the natives are really that whereas the natives are really that whereas the natives are really really tough so by using these native really tough so by using these native really tough so by using these native plants back in the landscape we can plants back in the landscape we can plants back in the landscape we can start providing habitat for native birds start providing habitat for native birds start providing habitat for native birds butterflies and animals and really start butterflies and animals and really start butterflies and animals and really start having that back in our communities having that back in our communities having that back in our communities whereas before we were kind of a Wast whereas before we were kind of a Wast whereas before we were kind of a Wast land of land of land of lawn if we allow the water to go where lawn if we allow the water to go where lawn if we allow the water to go where it wants to soak in and and uh flow it wants to soak in and and uh flow it wants to soak in and and uh flow naturally uh that eliminates costly naturally uh that eliminates costly naturally uh that eliminates costly infrastructure and things that we have infrastructure and things that we have infrastructure and things that we have to build and take care of it's going to to build and take care of it's going to to build and take care of it's going to take time it's not going to happen all take time it's not going to happen all take time it's not going to happen all at once but I think over decades I think at once but I think over decades I think at once but I think over decades I think if we change the way that we do things if we change the way that we do things if we change the way that we do things that we can make a huge that we can make a huge that we can make a huge difference and the neat thing about rain difference and the neat thing about rain difference and the neat thing about rain Gardens of West Michigan is that anybody Gardens of West Michigan is that anybody Gardens of West Michigan is that anybody can make a difference can make a difference can make a difference I can make a I can make a I can make a difference installing rain Gardens on difference installing rain Gardens on difference installing rain Gardens on The Lawns of schools businesses and The Lawns of schools businesses and The Lawns of schools businesses and homes can help eliminate storm water homes can help eliminate storm water homes can help eliminate storm water runoff for more information go to runoff for more information go to runoff for more information go to www.r gardens.org www.r gardens.org www.r gardens.org rain Gardens saving the Great Lakes one rain Gardens saving the Great Lakes one rain Gardens saving the Great Lakes one Garden at a time Garden at a time Garden at a time [Music] [Music] a rain Garden can be a beautiful a rain Garden can be a beautiful a rain Garden can be a beautiful addition to your landscape it attracts addition to your landscape it attracts addition to your landscape it attracts birds and butterflies and it's easy to birds and butterflies and it's easy to birds and butterflies and it's easy to install and maintain It's Not Just install and maintain It's Not Just install and maintain It's Not Just Flowers it's a rain Garden a beautiful Flowers it's a rain Garden a beautiful Flowers it's a rain Garden a beautiful solution to water pollution [Music] storm water runoff creates problems in storm water runoff creates problems in storm water runoff creates problems in the water cycle the cycle of water the water cycle the cycle of water the water cycle the cycle of water moving and being stored on the earth moving and being stored on the earth moving and being stored on the earth starts out as rain as everybody knows or starts out as rain as everybody knows or starts out as rain as everybody knows or snow falls to the ground it'll hit a snow falls to the ground it'll hit a snow falls to the ground it'll hit a veget ated area like grass or a farm veget ated area like grass or a farm veget ated area like grass or a farm field when it hits that then the water field when it hits that then the water field when it hits that then the water infiltrates into the soil moves through infiltrates into the soil moves through infiltrates into the soil moves through the ground and finds its way to a river the ground and finds its way to a river the ground and finds its way to a river a stream or a lake as soon as it hits a stream or a lake as soon as it hits a stream or a lake as soon as it hits pavement it'll immediately run off um pavement it'll immediately run off um pavement it'll immediately run off um and that'll end up usually in a storm and that'll end up usually in a storm and that'll end up usually in a storm sewer which goes to a sewer which goes to a sewer which goes to a river the Great Lakes Basin is one of river the Great Lakes Basin is one of river the Great Lakes Basin is one of the largest freshwater systems in the the largest freshwater systems in the the largest freshwater systems in the world about 20% of the world's fresh world about 20% of the world's fresh world about 20% of the world's fresh surface water water is stored here which surface water water is stored here which surface water water is stored here which is about 90% of the fresh surface water is about 90% of the fresh surface water is about 90% of the fresh surface water in the United in the United in the United States up to 70% of pollution in our States up to 70% of pollution in our States up to 70% of pollution in our surface waters is carried there by storm surface waters is carried there by storm surface waters is carried there by storm water and much of this comes from the water and much of this comes from the water and much of this comes from the things we do in our yards streets and things we do in our yards streets and things we do in our yards streets and parking lots well if you go downtown and parking lots well if you go downtown and parking lots well if you go downtown and stand on the roof of a building and look stand on the roof of a building and look stand on the roof of a building and look around everything you see around you around everything you see around you around everything you see around you will be hard surfaces so anytime a drop will be hard surfaces so anytime a drop will be hard surfaces so anytime a drop of rain falls on a roof or a sidewalk or of rain falls on a roof or a sidewalk or of rain falls on a roof or a sidewalk or a parking lot it gathers with other a parking lot it gathers with other a parking lot it gathers with other raindrops and it creates something raindrops and it creates something raindrops and it creates something called sheet flow and the water runs to called sheet flow and the water runs to called sheet flow and the water runs to the low spot by gravity for the most part people think gravity for the most part people think gravity for the most part people think that that stuff just you know after a that that stuff just you know after a that that stuff just you know after a rainstorm all the stuff in the parking rainstorm all the stuff in the parking rainstorm all the stuff in the parking lot will just end up going to the waste lot will just end up going to the waste lot will just end up going to the waste treatment plant but that in fact is not treatment plant but that in fact is not treatment plant but that in fact is not true almost all of it will go to a storm true almost all of it will go to a storm true almost all of it will go to a storm sewer and it won't get treated and it'll sewer and it won't get treated and it'll sewer and it won't get treated and it'll go directly to the river and those go directly to the river and those go directly to the river and those aquatic organisms are not not well aquatic organisms are not not well aquatic organisms are not not well adapted to the salts the heavy metals adapted to the salts the heavy metals adapted to the salts the heavy metals oil antifreeze any of that stuff we oil antifreeze any of that stuff we oil antifreeze any of that stuff we don't want streams and rivers in lakes don't want streams and rivers in lakes don't want streams and rivers in lakes with signs up that say unsafe for bodily with signs up that say unsafe for bodily with signs up that say unsafe for bodily contact you know that's a place where contact you know that's a place where contact you know that's a place where where the water is not safe for people where the water is not safe for people where the water is not safe for people um it's not safe for anything if you put um it's not safe for anything if you put um it's not safe for anything if you put an inch of rain on an acre of property an inch of rain on an acre of property an inch of rain on an acre of property and if that property is is asphalt or and if that property is is asphalt or and if that property is is asphalt or concrete that one acre collects over concrete that one acre collects over concrete that one acre collects over 27,000 gallons of water water that goes 27,000 gallons of water water that goes 27,000 gallons of water water that goes into a pipe and goes into the river so into a pipe and goes into the river so into a pipe and goes into the river so you can imagine in the city of Grand you can imagine in the city of Grand you can imagine in the city of Grand Rapids where we have all of these hard Rapids where we have all of these hard Rapids where we have all of these hard surfaces there's lots and lots and lots surfaces there's lots and lots and lots surfaces there's lots and lots and lots of water that's collected and channeled of water that's collected and channeled of water that's collected and channeled into the Grand River when the water runs into the Grand River when the water runs into the Grand River when the water runs across the parking lot or the street or across the parking lot or the street or across the parking lot or the street or the sidewalk all of that stuff from our the sidewalk all of that stuff from our the sidewalk all of that stuff from our careless axe gets collected and gets put careless axe gets collected and gets put careless axe gets collected and gets put into the river so if we can stop the into the river so if we can stop the into the river so if we can stop the water from doing that then we have water from doing that then we have water from doing that then we have stopped that source of pollution going stopped that source of pollution going stopped that source of pollution going into the river rainwater wasn't meant to into the river rainwater wasn't meant to into the river rainwater wasn't meant to run off our lands rain Gardens are run off our lands rain Gardens are run off our lands rain Gardens are designed to retain absorb and filter designed to retain absorb and filter designed to retain absorb and filter rainwater one of the things that make rainwater one of the things that make rainwater one of the things that make rain Gardens different from traditional rain Gardens different from traditional rain Gardens different from traditional Gardens is that rain Gardens feature the Gardens is that rain Gardens feature the Gardens is that rain Gardens feature the use of perennial plants native to our use of perennial plants native to our use of perennial plants native to our region some traditional non-native region some traditional non-native region some traditional non-native plants may also be used once you get the plants may also be used once you get the plants may also be used once you get the native plants established they don't native plants established they don't native plants established they don't have to be fertilized they don't have to have to be fertilized they don't have to have to be fertilized they don't have to have have have pesticides they need little or no pesticides they need little or no pesticides they need little or no watering once they're established watering once they're established watering once they're established whereas other perennials uh really need whereas other perennials uh really need whereas other perennials uh really need to be babied and they're susceptible to to be babied and they're susceptible to to be babied and they're susceptible to a lot of diseases and insects and things a lot of diseases and insects and things a lot of diseases and insects and things like that whereas the natives are really like that whereas the natives are really like that whereas the natives are really really tough so by using these native really tough so by using these native really tough so by using these native plants back in the landscape we can plants back in the landscape we can plants back in the landscape we can start providing habitat for native birds start providing habitat for native birds start providing habitat for native birds butterflies and animals and really start butterflies and animals and really start butterflies and animals and really start having that back in our communities having that back in our communities having that back in our communities whereas before we were kind of a whereas before we were kind of a whereas before we were kind of a wasteland of wasteland of wasteland of lawn if we allow the water to go where lawn if we allow the water to go where lawn if we allow the water to go where it wants to soak in and and uh flow it wants to soak in and and uh flow it wants to soak in and and uh flow naturally uh that eliminates costly naturally uh that eliminates costly naturally uh that eliminates costly infrastructure and things that we have infrastructure and things that we have infrastructure and things that we have to build and take care of it's going to to build and take care of it's going to to build and take care of it's going to take time it's not going to happen all take time it's not going to happen all take time it's not going to happen all at once but I think over decades I think at once but I think over decades I think at once but I think over decades I think if we change the way that we do things if we change the way that we do things if we change the way that we do things that we can make a huge that we can make a huge that we can make a huge difference and the neat thing about rain difference and the neat thing about rain difference and the neat thing about rain Gardens of West Michigan is that anybody Gardens of West Michigan is that anybody Gardens of West Michigan is that anybody can make a difference I can make a can make a difference I can make a can make a difference I can make a difference in Falling Rain Gardens on difference in Falling Rain Gardens on difference in Falling Rain Gardens on The Lawns of schools businesses and The Lawns of schools businesses and The Lawns of schools businesses and homes can help eliminate storm water homes can help eliminate storm water homes can help eliminate storm water runoff for more information go to runoff for more information go to runoff for more information go to www.r.org www.r.org www.r.org rain Gardens saving the Great Lakes one rain Gardens saving the Great Lakes one rain Gardens saving the Great Lakes one Garden at a time Garden at a time Garden at a time [Music]
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Allestree Park, Derby - the UK's largest urban rewilding project.

2026-05-29T14:08:31Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Allestree Park, Derby - the UK's largest urban rewilding project.
| Producteur = Natural England
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_EJ_p9zPy8P4.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2023-02-03
| Durée = 3 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJ_p9zPy8P4
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL, Green and blue infrastructures
}}

Allestree Park, Derby – the UK’s largest urban rewilding project. The vision for Allestree Park was to create a nature rich greenspace where people and wildlife thrive together. Green Infrastructure Standards highlight the vital connectedness between people and nature, making it very relevant to all sections of society.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = we're here at Alistair Park in Derby we're here at Alistair Park in Derby we're here at Alistair Park in Derby thinking about our Urban rewilding thinking about our Urban rewilding thinking about our Urban rewilding strategy for Derby City and we're strategy for Derby City and we're strategy for Derby City and we're looking at natural England's green looking at natural England's green looking at natural England's green infrastructure framework Alistair Park infrastructure framework Alistair Park infrastructure framework Alistair Park is a publicly owned Derby City Council is a publicly owned Derby City Council is a publicly owned Derby City Council Green Space and up until 2020 this part Green Space and up until 2020 this part Green Space and up until 2020 this part used to be a golf course used to be a golf course used to be a golf course it's used every single day by Community it's used every single day by Community it's used every single day by Community groups and we've got people that walk groups and we've got people that walk groups and we've got people that walk dogs that exercise we have the dogs that exercise we have the dogs that exercise we have the opportunity to create the UK's largest opportunity to create the UK's largest opportunity to create the UK's largest urban rewilding project and that sounded urban rewilding project and that sounded urban rewilding project and that sounded incredibly exciting our vision for incredibly exciting our vision for incredibly exciting our vision for Alistair Park is to create a nature-rich Alistair Park is to create a nature-rich Alistair Park is to create a nature-rich green space where people and Wildlife green space where people and Wildlife green space where people and Wildlife Thrive together to make it Wilder Thrive together to make it Wilder Thrive together to make it Wilder provide space for nature to recover for provide space for nature to recover for provide space for nature to recover for biodiversity to reintroduce species that biodiversity to reintroduce species that biodiversity to reintroduce species that should be there in the park now but should be there in the park now but should be there in the park now but aren't wet Landscapes grasslands trees aren't wet Landscapes grasslands trees aren't wet Landscapes grasslands trees and other natural habitats and the other and other natural habitats and the other and other natural habitats and the other thing I think that we would really like thing I think that we would really like thing I think that we would really like to be able to do is to achieve the to be able to do is to achieve the to be able to do is to achieve the accessible green standards and of course accessible green standards and of course accessible green standards and of course the opportunity to generate jobs in the the opportunity to generate jobs in the the opportunity to generate jobs in the green economy green infrastructure green economy green infrastructure green economy green infrastructure standards highlights the vital standards highlights the vital standards highlights the vital connectiveness between people and nature connectiveness between people and nature connectiveness between people and nature making it very relevant to all sections making it very relevant to all sections making it very relevant to all sections of society we're particularly focusing of society we're particularly focusing of society we're particularly focusing on Urban nature recovery and accessible on Urban nature recovery and accessible on Urban nature recovery and accessible green spaces Derby is the third most green spaces Derby is the third most green spaces Derby is the third most densely populated city in the East densely populated city in the East densely populated city in the East Midlands and we saw in the pandemic the Midlands and we saw in the pandemic the Midlands and we saw in the pandemic the importance of Green Space to local importance of Green Space to local importance of Green Space to local people but we also want safe spaces we people but we also want safe spaces we people but we also want safe spaces we want people to actually come to Alistair want people to actually come to Alistair want people to actually come to Alistair and feel welcomed and feel like they're and feel welcomed and feel like they're and feel welcomed and feel like they're represented within the park we want our represented within the park we want our represented within the park we want our volunteering opportunities to be as volunteering opportunities to be as volunteering opportunities to be as broad as possible and to make sure that broad as possible and to make sure that broad as possible and to make sure that we're encouraging as many people as we're encouraging as many people as we're encouraging as many people as possible to take part in what is a possible to take part in what is a possible to take part in what is a really exciting project we want one in really exciting project we want one in really exciting project we want one in four people to be mobilized to take four people to be mobilized to take four people to be mobilized to take action for wildlife like species action for wildlife like species action for wildlife like species reintroduction citizen science and reintroduction citizen science and reintroduction citizen science and monitoring the climate crisis is with us monitoring the climate crisis is with us monitoring the climate crisis is with us right here right now and Allergy Park right here right now and Allergy Park right here right now and Allergy Park provides us the opportunity to respond provides us the opportunity to respond provides us the opportunity to respond to that climate crisis in a really to that climate crisis in a really to that climate crisis in a really really sustainable manageable way that really sustainable manageable way that really sustainable manageable way that will benefit local people we're not the will benefit local people we're not the will benefit local people we're not the experts on everything I think the key experts on everything I think the key experts on everything I think the key thing has been by working in partnership thing has been by working in partnership thing has been by working in partnership with the likes of Derbyshire Wildlife with the likes of Derbyshire Wildlife with the likes of Derbyshire Wildlife trust with the University of derby with trust with the University of derby with trust with the University of derby with rewild in Britain they've got some rewild in Britain they've got some rewild in Britain they've got some fantastic expertise capacity resources fantastic expertise capacity resources fantastic expertise capacity resources we've already delivered different public we've already delivered different public we've already delivered different public consultation through walks talks and consultation through walks talks and consultation through walks talks and events and now we're working with events and now we're working with events and now we're working with individuals and organizations to find individuals and organizations to find individuals and organizations to find out more about how they would use out more about how they would use out more about how they would use Alistair Park so that we can make a Alistair Park so that we can make a Alistair Park so that we can make a really co-produced program we're really co-produced program we're really co-produced program we're igniting a passion for this project igniting a passion for this project igniting a passion for this project we're finding more and more people are we're finding more and more people are we're finding more and more people are engaging with everything to do with engaging with everything to do with engaging with everything to do with wildlife and we want local people and wildlife and we want local people and wildlife and we want local people and local communities to be involved in local communities to be involved in local communities to be involved in engagement projects and well-being engagement projects and well-being engagement projects and well-being programs however we're very aware of the programs however we're very aware of the programs however we're very aware of the voices that are missing within this voices that are missing within this voices that are missing within this project and we're really doing a lot of project and we're really doing a lot of project and we're really doing a lot of work to ensure that our underserved work to ensure that our underserved work to ensure that our underserved communities are involved in the work communities are involved in the work communities are involved in the work that goes into rewarding Alistair Park that goes into rewarding Alistair Park that goes into rewarding Alistair Park we don't have all the answers but we're we don't have all the answers but we're we don't have all the answers but we're reflecting we're learning and we're reflecting we're learning and we're reflecting we're learning and we're starting the work to enable access for starting the work to enable access for starting the work to enable access for all I'm really excited about the all I'm really excited about the all I'm really excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and working opportunities that lie ahead and working opportunities that lie ahead and working with our partners to bring the vision of with our partners to bring the vision of with our partners to bring the vision of a rewired Artistry Park to life we're so a rewired Artistry Park to life we're so a rewired Artistry Park to life we're so excited to see what we can do here at excited to see what we can do here at excited to see what we can do here at Alistair Park and the impact we know it Alistair Park and the impact we know it Alistair Park and the impact we know it will have for the community will have for the community will have for the community [Music]
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Elephant Park, London

2026-05-29T14:08:27Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Elephant Park, London
| Producteur = Natural England
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_LgLSJkY7Cw4.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2023-02-03
| Durée = 1 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgLSJkY7Cw4
| Intervenants 0 = Ewan Oliver
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL, Green and blue infrastructures
}}

Elephant Park, London- Ewan Oliver from Lendlease talks about the redevelopment of Elephant Park in London and how they achieved a good UGF: Urban Greening Factor, which is one of the headline standards of the GI Framework. The film illustrates why Green infrastructure requires a different approach to masterplanning.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = [Music] [Music] [Music] our vision for the public Realm was to our vision for the public Realm was to our vision for the public Realm was to create an Urban Oasis that connects create an Urban Oasis that connects create an Urban Oasis that connects people to place and nature a livable people to place and nature a livable people to place and nature a livable place where people and businesses can place where people and businesses can place where people and businesses can Thrive and our vision was for a place Thrive and our vision was for a place Thrive and our vision was for a place that felt relaxed and naturalistic and that felt relaxed and naturalistic and that felt relaxed and naturalistic and welcoming to all and of course a place welcoming to all and of course a place welcoming to all and of course a place that's also home to Nature although that's also home to Nature although that's also home to Nature although ugf didn't exist when the project ugf didn't exist when the project ugf didn't exist when the project started back in 2013 and wasn't part of started back in 2013 and wasn't part of started back in 2013 and wasn't part of our outline planning requirement our outline planning requirement our outline planning requirement increasingly planners have asked for UGA increasingly planners have asked for UGA increasingly planners have asked for UGA assessments to be done on the detail assessments to be done on the detail assessments to be done on the detail planning application planning application planning application and this has really helped to challenge and this has really helped to challenge and this has really helped to challenge the design teams to increase the quantum the design teams to increase the quantum the design teams to increase the quantum and the quality of planting and the quality of planting and the quality of planting we have achieved a ugf score of 0.36 in we have achieved a ugf score of 0.36 in we have achieved a ugf score of 0.36 in order to reach a good ugf score then we order to reach a good ugf score then we order to reach a good ugf score then we needed to turn the traditional methods needed to turn the traditional methods needed to turn the traditional methods of Master planning on the head instead of Master planning on the head instead of Master planning on the head instead of saying where can we fit in green of saying where can we fit in green of saying where can we fit in green infrastructure infrastructure infrastructure instead to say where is it absolutely instead to say where is it absolutely instead to say where is it absolutely necessary to have hard infrastructure necessary to have hard infrastructure necessary to have hard infrastructure UTF has helped to establish some really UTF has helped to establish some really UTF has helped to establish some really high value habitats in elephant park high value habitats in elephant park high value habitats in elephant park because Meadows and trees attract a high because Meadows and trees attract a high because Meadows and trees attract a high score within the ugf calculations this score within the ugf calculations this score within the ugf calculations this has encouraged us to increase the number has encouraged us to increase the number has encouraged us to increase the number of trees of course this links back to creating a of course this links back to creating a of course this links back to creating a place where people can be in contact place where people can be in contact place where people can be in contact with nature natural England's GI with nature natural England's GI with nature natural England's GI framework is crucial if we're to tackle framework is crucial if we're to tackle framework is crucial if we're to tackle the big issues of the 21st century it the big issues of the 21st century it the big issues of the 21st century it clearly sets out the guidance to deliver clearly sets out the guidance to deliver clearly sets out the guidance to deliver good quality schemes and I think that good quality schemes and I think that good quality schemes and I think that generally if you give developers a set generally if you give developers a set generally if you give developers a set of well-defined parameters to work to of well-defined parameters to work to of well-defined parameters to work to they will deliver what's required
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Mayfield Park, Manchester

2026-05-29T14:08:23Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Mayfield Park, Manchester
| Producteur = Natural England
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_kLackjOMpXw.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2023-02-03
| Durée = 3 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLackjOMpXw
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL, Green and blue infrastructures
}}

Manchester’s first urban park in over 100 years all within a 1-minute walk of Manchester station.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = thank you natural England's GI standards will natural England's GI standards will natural England's GI standards will provide critical guidance to the public provide critical guidance to the public provide critical guidance to the public and private sector with real life and private sector with real life and private sector with real life examples such as Mayfield Mayfield is a examples such as Mayfield Mayfield is a examples such as Mayfield Mayfield is a massive regeneration project that was massive regeneration project that was massive regeneration project that was working with some heavily contaminated working with some heavily contaminated working with some heavily contaminated land and it now puts people place and land and it now puts people place and land and it now puts people place and nature at its heart nature at its heart nature at its heart Mayfield has contributed to Manchester's Mayfield has contributed to Manchester's Mayfield has contributed to Manchester's green infrastructure agenda by green infrastructure agenda by green infrastructure agenda by delivering one of the first city center delivering one of the first city center delivering one of the first city center parks in almost over 100 years parks in almost over 100 years parks in almost over 100 years Mayfield Park is 2.6 hectares of high Mayfield Park is 2.6 hectares of high Mayfield Park is 2.6 hectares of high quality green space play Space and of quality green space play Space and of quality green space play Space and of course ecological habitat course ecological habitat course ecological habitat this new green space is different this new green space is different this new green space is different because guess what it's a landscape-led because guess what it's a landscape-led because guess what it's a landscape-led approach and this is an approach that approach and this is an approach that approach and this is an approach that where hope is going to be copied where hope is going to be copied where hope is going to be copied elsewhere in the city what's also elsewhere in the city what's also elsewhere in the city what's also different is the creative and Innovative different is the creative and Innovative different is the creative and Innovative design features that have been factored design features that have been factored design features that have been factored in not just the great amazing stuff in not just the great amazing stuff in not just the great amazing stuff that's on top of the surface but below that's on top of the surface but below that's on top of the surface but below ground as well making the site really ground as well making the site really ground as well making the site really adaptable to the extreme conditions of adaptable to the extreme conditions of adaptable to the extreme conditions of climate change that it might face in climate change that it might face in climate change that it might face in particular flooding this place will have particular flooding this place will have particular flooding this place will have a real impact on people in nature a real impact on people in nature a real impact on people in nature because it's because it's because it's free it's accessible it's interesting free it's accessible it's interesting free it's accessible it's interesting and it's a minutes walk from and it's a minutes walk from and it's a minutes walk from Manchester's main train station I think Manchester's main train station I think Manchester's main train station I think if if we were to stumble across this in if if we were to stumble across this in if if we were to stumble across this in any other European city we'd be any other European city we'd be any other European city we'd be absolutely thrilled yeah it's a special absolutely thrilled yeah it's a special absolutely thrilled yeah it's a special place and Nature's in the heart of the place and Nature's in the heart of the place and Nature's in the heart of the city which I think is going to stimulate city which I think is going to stimulate city which I think is going to stimulate investment investment investment Mayfield will benefit people and nature Mayfield will benefit people and nature Mayfield will benefit people and nature in tandem it will put nature right on in tandem it will put nature right on in tandem it will put nature right on the doorstep of so many of Manchester's the doorstep of so many of Manchester's the doorstep of so many of Manchester's residents Mayfield is contributing to residents Mayfield is contributing to residents Mayfield is contributing to tree canopy cover with 156 new trees tree canopy cover with 156 new trees tree canopy cover with 156 new trees following the opening of the park in following the opening of the park in following the opening of the park in September 2022 September 2022 September 2022 Mayfield partnership definitely plans to Mayfield partnership definitely plans to Mayfield partnership definitely plans to apply for a green flag award apply for a green flag award apply for a green flag award [Music] [Music] [Music] why have a green infrastructure strategy why have a green infrastructure strategy why have a green infrastructure strategy I'm a policy officer so I'm slightly I'm a policy officer so I'm slightly I'm a policy officer so I'm slightly biased but as strategy or a plan is a biased but as strategy or a plan is a biased but as strategy or a plan is a rallying point it's a rallying call it rallying point it's a rallying call it rallying point it's a rallying call it allows you to look at allows you to look at allows you to look at where you are where you're going and how where you are where you're going and how where you are where you're going and how you're going to get there and I think you're going to get there and I think you're going to get there and I think that's really really important is that's really really important is that's really really important is establishing that long-term Vision establishing that long-term Vision establishing that long-term Vision alongside helpful and useful alongside helpful and useful alongside helpful and useful environmental evidence such as the green environmental evidence such as the green environmental evidence such as the green infrastructure standards we have the infrastructure standards we have the infrastructure standards we have the cause we've got climate emergency and cause we've got climate emergency and cause we've got climate emergency and ecological emergency what the plans ecological emergency what the plans ecological emergency what the plans allow us to do really is turn those allow us to do really is turn those allow us to do really is turn those strategies and policies into practical strategies and policies into practical strategies and policies into practical action on the ground and Mayfield is a action on the ground and Mayfield is a action on the ground and Mayfield is a great example of this great example of this great example of this Mayfield could of course be done in Mayfield could of course be done in Mayfield could of course be done in other places what you need to deliver other places what you need to deliver other places what you need to deliver something like Mayfield it's partnership something like Mayfield it's partnership something like Mayfield it's partnership working intensive collaboration and a working intensive collaboration and a working intensive collaboration and a vision that everyone can get behind vision that everyone can get behind vision that everyone can get behind these standards could also help local these standards could also help local these standards could also help local authorities emphasize where authorities emphasize where authorities emphasize where opportunities for GI exist and how to opportunities for GI exist and how to opportunities for GI exist and how to exploit them and the thing is here in exploit them and the thing is here in exploit them and the thing is here in Manchester we'd like to think that the Manchester we'd like to think that the Manchester we'd like to think that the world's first industrial city can apply world's first industrial city can apply world's first industrial city can apply these principles and develop more these principles and develop more these principles and develop more climate resilient approaches then we can climate resilient approaches then we can climate resilient approaches then we can all do it all do it all do it look look look [Music] [Music] [Music] foreign
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Diversification of organic farming - A Polish Success Story

2026-05-29T14:08:00Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Diversification of organic farming - A Polish Success Story
| Producteur = DiverIMPACTS H2020
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_LBG0VuKmPbA.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2022-04-19
| Durée = 3 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBG0VuKmPbA
| Intervenants 0 = Tomasz Obszanski
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL
}}

Tomasz Obszanski, farm owner of Barwy Zdrowia, Poland shares his success story of diversifying his farm through correct crop rotation, intercropping and improving soil health. Tomasz also shares issues that he has faced in previous years and how this issues have affected Barwy Zdrowia.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = [Music] welcome to byways georgia in tonight welcome to byways georgia in tonight welcome to byways georgia in tonight poland thomas a farm owner is currently thomas a farm owner is currently thomas a farm owner is currently standing in the onion field standing in the onion field standing in the onion field next to thomas there is white and red next to thomas there is white and red next to thomas there is white and red cabbage cabbage cabbage on the other side grows a pumpkin patch on the other side grows a pumpkin patch on the other side grows a pumpkin patch as the side of the field is large thomas as the side of the field is large thomas as the side of the field is large thomas is trying to diversify the production is trying to diversify the production is trying to diversify the production through correct crop rotation through correct crop rotation through correct crop rotation the fertilization is purely organic the fertilization is purely organic the fertilization is purely organic based on locally produced fertilizers based on locally produced fertilizers based on locally produced fertilizers such as slurry such as slurry such as slurry this is obtained from a nearby pig farm thomas deals with several problems on thomas deals with several problems on thomas deals with several problems on his farm his farm his farm one that affects him the most is high one that affects him the most is high one that affects him the most is high levels of weed infestations levels of weed infestations levels of weed infestations thomas is also facing a shortage of thomas is also facing a shortage of thomas is also facing a shortage of manpower manpower manpower and therefore trying to rely as much as and therefore trying to rely as much as and therefore trying to rely as much as possible on machinery the weeder harrow possible on machinery the weeder harrow possible on machinery the weeder harrow a mechanical hoe is crucial to tackle a mechanical hoe is crucial to tackle a mechanical hoe is crucial to tackle the weeds the weeds the weeds however weed residues still must be however weed residues still must be however weed residues still must be removed by hand removed by hand removed by hand by using different methods thomas has by using different methods thomas has by using different methods thomas has tried to diversify production on this tried to diversify production on this tried to diversify production on this farm an example of this is the farm an example of this is the farm an example of this is the cultivation of paprika in raspberries cultivation of paprika in raspberries cultivation of paprika in raspberries into rowing can be shown here raspberry is the main crop while pepper raspberry is the main crop while pepper raspberry is the main crop while pepper is the intercrop is the intercrop is the intercrop by doing this they use the full by doing this they use the full by doing this they use the full potential of the field potential of the field potential of the field otherwise these inter roads will be otherwise these inter roads will be otherwise these inter roads will be unmanaged this empty area can be used to grow this empty area can be used to grow this empty area can be used to grow peppers onions or other vegetables peppers onions or other vegetables peppers onions or other vegetables we also have beans growing in the we also have beans growing in the we also have beans growing in the inter-rows of blackcurrants nearby inter-rows of blackcurrants nearby inter-rows of blackcurrants nearby allowing the farm to increase allowing the farm to increase allowing the farm to increase profitability by increasing the number profitability by increasing the number profitability by increasing the number of crops of crops of crops with only 30 hectares there is not with only 30 hectares there is not with only 30 hectares there is not enough space for some crops inter enough space for some crops inter enough space for some crops inter cropping allows for a larger assortment cropping allows for a larger assortment cropping allows for a larger assortment of vegetables to be produced which of vegetables to be produced which of vegetables to be produced which thomas then sells later on farm thomas has tried to diversify his farm thomas has tried to diversify his farm thomas has tried to diversify his farm by sewing and planting various types of by sewing and planting various types of by sewing and planting various types of vegetables in the main crops vegetables in the main crops vegetables in the main crops in this field like currents are grown in this field like currents are grown in this field like currents are grown and intercrotch with onions if machinery and intercrotch with onions if machinery and intercrotch with onions if machinery harvesting is not possible it will be harvesting is not possible it will be harvesting is not possible it will be harvested manually harvested manually harvested manually thomas was afraid that this crop would thomas was afraid that this crop would thomas was afraid that this crop would fail but currently the crop is looking fail but currently the crop is looking fail but currently the crop is looking good good good another example of barbie's soviet another example of barbie's soviet another example of barbie's soviet diversification diversification diversification is a delicately sown white clover that is a delicately sown white clover that is a delicately sown white clover that introduced additional nitrogen and introduced additional nitrogen and introduced additional nitrogen and protects the soil against the loss of protects the soil against the loss of protects the soil against the loss of moisture moisture moisture dumbass is pleased with the experiment dumbass is pleased with the experiment dumbass is pleased with the experiment he did in this field and as you can see he did in this field and as you can see he did in this field and as you can see the onions are on track to be harvested the onions are on track to be harvested the onions are on track to be harvested in a month's time in a month's time in a month's time as shown previously the raspberries are as shown previously the raspberries are as shown previously the raspberries are also looking promising this year too also looking promising this year too also looking promising this year too throughout the year thomas has faced throughout the year thomas has faced throughout the year thomas has faced droughts frosts intensive rainfall and droughts frosts intensive rainfall and droughts frosts intensive rainfall and back to drought again back to drought again back to drought again the weather conditions haven't been very the weather conditions haven't been very the weather conditions haven't been very favorable in poland however in the favorable in poland however in the favorable in poland however in the circumstances of the farm aristorobia circumstances of the farm aristorobia circumstances of the farm aristorobia can be a notable example of successful can be a notable example of successful can be a notable example of successful diversification diversification diversification tomas is a great example for farmers tomas is a great example for farmers tomas is a great example for farmers looking to implement the same farming looking to implement the same farming looking to implement the same farming systems you
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Lowland peat solutions - rethinking farming on lowland peat

2026-05-29T14:07:56Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Lowland peat solutions - rethinking farming on lowland peat
| Producteur = The Wildlife Trusts
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_YNbVcQcLtJA.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2025-07-03
| Durée = 44 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNbVcQcLtJA
| Intervenants 0 = Vicki Hird
| Intervenants 1 = Phil Jarvis
| Intervenants 2 = Sarah-Jane Taylor
| Intervenants 3 = Sarah Johnson
| Intervenants 4 = Cameron Edwards
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL
}}

Lowland carbon peat soils are precious - from storing vast amounts of carbon to being a key wildlife, food and hydrological resource. Yet they are severely degraded, leading to soil and nature loss, and greenhouse gas emissions.

This session will explore the tools we have to rethink agriculture on lowland peat.

Live from Groundswell 2025

Chair - Vicki Hird (The Wildlife Trusts)

Panel - Phil Jarvis - Albanwise Ltd

Sarah-Jane Taylor - Oxwillow

Sarah Johnson - Lancashire Wildlife Trust

Cameron Edwards - Farmer

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = [Music] Yeah. Yeah. Welcome everyone. Um, thank you very Welcome everyone. Um, thank you very Welcome everyone. Um, thank you very much for coming um to the Wildlife Trust much for coming um to the Wildlife Trust much for coming um to the Wildlife Trust um nature farming with nature tent. Um um nature farming with nature tent. Um um nature farming with nature tent. Um I'm Vicky Herd and I will be hosting I'm Vicky Herd and I will be hosting I'm Vicky Herd and I will be hosting this session on land pete solutions this session on land pete solutions this session on land pete solutions rethinking farming farming on land pete rethinking farming farming on land pete rethinking farming farming on land pete and we are recording this so welcome to and we are recording this so welcome to and we are recording this so welcome to all the people online um who will be all the people online um who will be all the people online um who will be seeing this um and I hope we can delve seeing this um and I hope we can delve seeing this um and I hope we can delve into we've got a short amount of time into we've got a short amount of time into we've got a short amount of time but we can delve into some of the um but we can delve into some of the um but we can delve into some of the um issues the challenges with farming on issues the challenges with farming on issues the challenges with farming on land peak because it's a fantastic soil land peak because it's a fantastic soil land peak because it's a fantastic soil to grow crops in and to and grassland to grow crops in and to and grassland to grow crops in and to and grassland it's some some is used for grassland it's some some is used for grassland it's some some is used for grassland land. Some is extracted for um Pete for land. Some is extracted for um Pete for land. Some is extracted for um Pete for use as a substrate. And yet it's an use as a substrate. And yet it's an use as a substrate. And yet it's an incredibly important resource. It's an incredibly important resource. It's an incredibly important resource. It's an incredibly important source of carbon incredibly important source of carbon incredibly important source of carbon because the carbon is locked into because the carbon is locked into because the carbon is locked into lowland heat if it's treated if it's lowland heat if it's treated if it's lowland heat if it's treated if it's worked well. It's locked in and um worked well. It's locked in and um worked well. It's locked in and um saving a lot of emissions if it's um saving a lot of emissions if it's um saving a lot of emissions if it's um it's managed well. Um if it's not, you it's managed well. Um if it's not, you it's managed well. Um if it's not, you get a lot of greenhouse gas emissions. get a lot of greenhouse gas emissions. get a lot of greenhouse gas emissions. Um, so 2.2% of agricultural land is Um, so 2.2% of agricultural land is Um, so 2.2% of agricultural land is Pete, land pete, but it represents 29% Pete, land pete, but it represents 29% Pete, land pete, but it represents 29% of our agricultural emissions. So it's a of our agricultural emissions. So it's a of our agricultural emissions. So it's a huge source at the moment. So that's why huge source at the moment. So that's why huge source at the moment. So that's why we're thinking of how it can be changed we're thinking of how it can be changed we're thinking of how it can be changed how we farm on that land and and in some how we farm on that land and and in some how we farm on that land and and in some case not farming on that land in order case not farming on that land in order case not farming on that land in order to stop those carbon emissions but also to stop those carbon emissions but also to stop those carbon emissions but also restore it for nature because it's a restore it for nature because it's a restore it for nature because it's a very natur area with some really unique very natur area with some really unique very natur area with some really unique habitats and species that we want to habitats and species that we want to habitats and species that we want to recover restore and recover which is recover restore and recover which is recover restore and recover which is really important if we're going to really important if we're going to really important if we're going to achieve our um target of 30 by 30 uh 30% achieve our um target of 30 by 30 uh 30% achieve our um target of 30 by 30 uh 30% of nature inland waterways and marine of nature inland waterways and marine of nature inland waterways and marine restored for nature by 2030 which is a restored for nature by 2030 which is a restored for nature by 2030 which is a binding target that we have. Um so we've binding target that we have. Um so we've binding target that we have. Um so we've got a real interest in this and we've got a real interest in this and we've got a real interest in this and we've done a discussion document which you can done a discussion document which you can done a discussion document which you can get on our website um agricultural and get on our website um agricultural and get on our website um agricultural and land petlands um where we look at some land petlands um where we look at some land petlands um where we look at some of the many issues and you can learn of the many issues and you can learn of the many issues and you can learn more if you want to learn more but we more if you want to learn more but we more if you want to learn more but we have some fabulous speakers um talking have some fabulous speakers um talking have some fabulous speakers um talking about their experiences of farming on about their experiences of farming on about their experiences of farming on land pete and um projects in um a land pete and um projects in um a land pete and um projects in um a process called pollutulture which I'm process called pollutulture which I'm process called pollutulture which I'm sure you've heard um it's another phrase sure you've heard um it's another phrase sure you've heard um it's another phrase is wet wetter farming where you rewet is wet wetter farming where you rewet is wet wetter farming where you rewet the petland soils so they stop emitting the petland soils so they stop emitting the petland soils so they stop emitting carbon emissions and start recovering as carbon emissions and start recovering as carbon emissions and start recovering as a a naturous source. But you can still a a naturous source. But you can still a a naturous source. But you can still do some farming. So we're going to learn do some farming. So we're going to learn do some farming. So we're going to learn about that today with some fabulous about that today with some fabulous about that today with some fabulous speakers. Um I'm going to have to take a speakers. Um I'm going to have to take a speakers. Um I'm going to have to take a drink. I get very uh dry mouthed I'm drink. I get very uh dry mouthed I'm drink. I get very uh dry mouthed I'm afraid when I'm speaking. Um but we're afraid when I'm speaking. Um but we're afraid when I'm speaking. Um but we're going to hear from Phil Jarvis who's a going to hear from Phil Jarvis who's a going to hear from Phil Jarvis who's a farmer with many many hats in the past. farmer with many many hats in the past. farmer with many many hats in the past. I'll let them introduce what they've I'll let them introduce what they've I'll let them introduce what they've been doing. Um but I'll just go through been doing. Um but I'll just go through been doing. Um but I'll just go through the panel. We've got Sarah Jane Taylor. the panel. We've got Sarah Jane Taylor. the panel. We've got Sarah Jane Taylor. um who's a farmer in the Cambridge fence um who's a farmer in the Cambridge fence um who's a farmer in the Cambridge fence which is obviously a very rich um which is obviously a very rich um which is obviously a very rich um petland area. Sarah Johnson who's head petland area. Sarah Johnson who's head petland area. Sarah Johnson who's head of Petland Nature Recovery in the um of Petland Nature Recovery in the um of Petland Nature Recovery in the um wildlife trust um of Lanasher Manchester wildlife trust um of Lanasher Manchester wildlife trust um of Lanasher Manchester and North Marsy Mury side. So it's a and North Marsy Mury side. So it's a and North Marsy Mury side. So it's a long one and Cameron Edwards who's a long one and Cameron Edwards who's a long one and Cameron Edwards who's a farmer in Goose Meadow Farming up in farmer in Goose Meadow Farming up in farmer in Goose Meadow Farming up in Lanasher. So two very um important areas Lanasher. So two very um important areas Lanasher. So two very um important areas for Lolan Pete. we will hear from then and um then there we will hear from then and um then there we will hear from then and um then there will be opportunity for you ask will be opportunity for you ask will be opportunity for you ask questions afterwards. So please do think questions afterwards. So please do think questions afterwards. So please do think of any you might have um and uh we'll of any you might have um and uh we'll of any you might have um and uh we'll get on to that as soon as we can. Um so get on to that as soon as we can. Um so get on to that as soon as we can. Um so they're only going to be speak five to they're only going to be speak five to they're only going to be speak five to seven minutes max which isn't enough I'm seven minutes max which isn't enough I'm seven minutes max which isn't enough I'm sure but I'm sure you'll understand and sure but I'm sure you'll understand and sure but I'm sure you'll understand and maybe there'll be time afterwards to maybe there'll be time afterwards to maybe there'll be time afterwards to chat further um after we've closed the chat further um after we've closed the chat further um after we've closed the session. So thank you very much. Thank session. So thank you very much. Thank session. So thank you very much. Thank you for coming and um I'll start with you for coming and um I'll start with you for coming and um I'll start with Phil. please uh introduce your work on Phil. please uh introduce your work on Phil. please uh introduce your work on Loland Pete and uh your experiences and Loland Pete and uh your experiences and Loland Pete and uh your experiences and challenges and messages to government. challenges and messages to government. challenges and messages to government. Okay. Thank you very much indeed Vicki. Okay. Thank you very much indeed Vicki. Okay. Thank you very much indeed Vicki. So I'm going to talk to you about some So I'm going to talk to you about some So I'm going to talk to you about some projects in Norfolk and in Yorkshire projects in Norfolk and in Yorkshire projects in Norfolk and in Yorkshire that I'm involved with uh and they will that I'm involved with uh and they will that I'm involved with uh and they will run to several hundred acres of of Pete run to several hundred acres of of Pete run to several hundred acres of of Pete in both of those places. But the first in both of those places. But the first in both of those places. But the first thing I want to do is I want to thing I want to do is I want to thing I want to do is I want to acknowledge some of my former colleagues acknowledge some of my former colleagues acknowledge some of my former colleagues uh Sarah Akin, Mike Edwards and Andy uh Sarah Akin, Mike Edwards and Andy uh Sarah Akin, Mike Edwards and Andy Miller who put together projects and Miller who put together projects and Miller who put together projects and much of this is about teamwork and and much of this is about teamwork and and much of this is about teamwork and and the stakeholders you work together. It's the stakeholders you work together. It's the stakeholders you work together. It's not just one person who says I'm going not just one person who says I'm going not just one person who says I'm going to save uh Pete. So firstly I was to save uh Pete. So firstly I was to save uh Pete. So firstly I was involved strategically. Now I'm involved involved strategically. Now I'm involved involved strategically. Now I'm involved more practically. Um the experiences and more practically. Um the experiences and more practically. Um the experiences and challenges well um they range from flood challenges well um they range from flood challenges well um they range from flood to drought. uh in there somewhere before to drought. uh in there somewhere before to drought. uh in there somewhere before I forget there's food and farming. Okay. I forget there's food and farming. Okay. I forget there's food and farming. Okay. And can you combine the two um planning And can you combine the two um planning And can you combine the two um planning permissions when you're using public permissions when you're using public permissions when you're using public money that also um flood risk money that also um flood risk money that also um flood risk assessments and permits and and making assessments and permits and and making assessments and permits and and making sure that uh and I might come back to sure that uh and I might come back to sure that uh and I might come back to how we get permits in the future, but it how we get permits in the future, but it how we get permits in the future, but it seems to me we need to be a bit more seems to me we need to be a bit more seems to me we need to be a bit more joined up between stakeholders about joined up between stakeholders about joined up between stakeholders about especially water abstraction and water especially water abstraction and water especially water abstraction and water availability. And any of you who were availability. And any of you who were availability. And any of you who were listening to Tom Bradshshire earlier on, listening to Tom Bradshshire earlier on, listening to Tom Bradshshire earlier on, that was a point about, you know, when that was a point about, you know, when that was a point about, you know, when there's a lot of water around, why are there's a lot of water around, why are there's a lot of water around, why are we pumping it into the north north sea we pumping it into the north north sea we pumping it into the north north sea when a lot of our wet wetting up land is when a lot of our wet wetting up land is when a lot of our wet wetting up land is is available. Um, is available. Um, is available. Um, yeah, and and you know, in any of these yeah, and and you know, in any of these yeah, and and you know, in any of these projects, lots of surveys, lots of projects, lots of surveys, lots of projects, lots of surveys, lots of administration, lots of bureaucracies. administration, lots of bureaucracies. administration, lots of bureaucracies. So, the partners that we're working with So, the partners that we're working with So, the partners that we're working with and the grants we're working with mainly and the grants we're working with mainly and the grants we're working with mainly landscape recovery. We're in four landscape recovery. We're in four landscape recovery. We're in four landscape recoveries. one two of them landscape recoveries. one two of them landscape recoveries. one two of them particularly uh for Pete we're working particularly uh for Pete we're working particularly uh for Pete we're working with a Fen East Pete partnership which with a Fen East Pete partnership which with a Fen East Pete partnership which is uh working very closely with is uh working very closely with is uh working very closely with linkshire wildlife trust and actually linkshire wildlife trust and actually linkshire wildlife trust and actually the benefits of working with people like the benefits of working with people like the benefits of working with people like the RSPB as well is that the the RSPB as well is that the the RSPB as well is that the administration in bureaucracy when administration in bureaucracy when administration in bureaucracy when you've got people from those you've got people from those you've got people from those organizations they do help ease ease can organizations they do help ease ease can organizations they do help ease ease can I say ease the pain a little bit of I say ease the pain a little bit of I say ease the pain a little bit of bureaucracy you know being able to deal bureaucracy you know being able to deal bureaucracy you know being able to deal with that administration uh have have with that administration uh have have with that administration uh have have backup and resources So that's really backup and resources So that's really backup and resources So that's really quite important. Um you know we also quite important. Um you know we also quite important. Um you know we also work with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust we work with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust we work with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust we work with natural England we work with work with natural England we work with work with natural England we work with um the forestry commission as well and um the forestry commission as well and um the forestry commission as well and the mechanisms the mechanisms we're the mechanisms the mechanisms we're the mechanisms the mechanisms we're using. So I've already talked about a using. So I've already talked about a using. So I've already talked about a fenny's peak partnership landscape fenny's peak partnership landscape fenny's peak partnership landscape recover recovery BNG you know is it a recover recovery BNG you know is it a recover recovery BNG you know is it a market is there that private finance how market is there that private finance how market is there that private finance how much do you have to invest before much do you have to invest before much do you have to invest before potentially you see the return from potentially you see the return from potentially you see the return from actually we can go through the process actually we can go through the process actually we can go through the process from monitoring and manage management we from monitoring and manage management we from monitoring and manage management we can go through conservation covenant can go through conservation covenant can go through conservation covenant section 106 we can get it registered on section 106 we can get it registered on section 106 we can get it registered on a register however and people can do all a register however and people can do all a register however and people can do all the metrics to say how much uplift they the metrics to say how much uplift they the metrics to say how much uplift they are you've then got to sell it okay And are you've then got to sell it okay And are you've then got to sell it okay And I think a lot of people who are in that I think a lot of people who are in that I think a lot of people who are in that marketplace, marketplace, marketplace, it's the phase we've got to now where it's the phase we've got to now where it's the phase we've got to now where I'm interested in the brokers who are I'm interested in the brokers who are I'm interested in the brokers who are going to sell it with me rather than going to sell it with me rather than going to sell it with me rather than people and tell me what how much I've people and tell me what how much I've people and tell me what how much I've got and how much I can uplift. So we're got and how much I can uplift. So we're got and how much I can uplift. So we're now getting to the the phase where I'm now getting to the the phase where I'm now getting to the the phase where I'm looking at the financial side of this. looking at the financial side of this. looking at the financial side of this. Corporate social responsibility, Corporate social responsibility, Corporate social responsibility, environmental and social governance are environmental and social governance are environmental and social governance are all areas that might attract funding all areas that might attract funding all areas that might attract funding fear. But once again, that's private fear. But once again, that's private fear. But once again, that's private finance. And of course the other thing finance. And of course the other thing finance. And of course the other thing is countryside stewardship. And I think is countryside stewardship. And I think is countryside stewardship. And I think countryside stewardship has a lot of countryside stewardship has a lot of countryside stewardship has a lot of attractive things about it. You are much attractive things about it. You are much attractive things about it. You are much more control of your own destiny rather more control of your own destiny rather more control of your own destiny rather than some of these landscape recoveries than some of these landscape recoveries than some of these landscape recoveries where I think the the processes by which where I think the the processes by which where I think the the processes by which you get to receive funding on your land you get to receive funding on your land you get to receive funding on your land can be quite complex. So messages to can be quite complex. So messages to can be quite complex. So messages to government. The first thing there's government. The first thing there's government. The first thing there's there's two things here for me. All of there's two things here for me. All of there's two things here for me. All of this that we're talking about, whether this that we're talking about, whether this that we're talking about, whether it be Pete or any other landscape it be Pete or any other landscape it be Pete or any other landscape recovery, this is about biodiversity or recovery, this is about biodiversity or recovery, this is about biodiversity or climate. It's secondly for me about climate. It's secondly for me about climate. It's secondly for me about making sure this is s sustainable making sure this is s sustainable making sure this is s sustainable financially financially financially because it, you know, what it isn't because it, you know, what it isn't because it, you know, what it isn't about is about a project which gets about is about a project which gets about is about a project which gets bigger than those things altogether. So bigger than those things altogether. So bigger than those things altogether. So when we're doing these things, these when we're doing these things, these when we're doing these things, these landscape recoveries, these grants are landscape recoveries, these grants are landscape recoveries, these grants are all about a vehicle that gets us in a all about a vehicle that gets us in a all about a vehicle that gets us in a streamlined way to to a lot of bi good streamlined way to to a lot of bi good streamlined way to to a lot of bi good biodiversity, climate change, net zero, biodiversity, climate change, net zero, biodiversity, climate change, net zero, but also makes it sustainable in the but also makes it sustainable in the but also makes it sustainable in the long term for land owners who are long term for land owners who are long term for land owners who are committing their land for a long time. committing their land for a long time. committing their land for a long time. Some of these projects can be you know Some of these projects can be you know Some of these projects can be you know if it's neut neutrality 90 years and or if it's neut neutrality 90 years and or if it's neut neutrality 90 years and or 30 years for conservation covenants and 30 years for conservation covenants and 30 years for conservation covenants and section 106 and it has to be streamlined section 106 and it has to be streamlined section 106 and it has to be streamlined and you have to think about the and you have to think about the and you have to think about the financial implications. So Vicki I think financial implications. So Vicki I think financial implications. So Vicki I think I'll I'll stop there. Um but I would I'll I'll stop there. Um but I would I'll I'll stop there. Um but I would like to send that message out to like to send that message out to like to send that message out to government in future schemes payments up government in future schemes payments up government in future schemes payments up front as well rather than expecting land front as well rather than expecting land front as well rather than expecting land owners to fund it and then claim in a owners to fund it and then claim in a owners to fund it and then claim in a rears you know it there's there's some rears you know it there's there's some rears you know it there's there's some big cash flow issues there as well. big cash flow issues there as well. big cash flow issues there as well. Yeah. Well, maybe we can cover that in Yeah. Well, maybe we can cover that in Yeah. Well, maybe we can cover that in the questions more as well. Thank you. the questions more as well. Thank you. the questions more as well. Thank you. Um, so Sarah Jane Taylor from um, Um, so Sarah Jane Taylor from um, Um, so Sarah Jane Taylor from um, Oxillow in the Cambridge fence, similar Oxillow in the Cambridge fence, similar Oxillow in the Cambridge fence, similar area that you've been working although area that you've been working although area that you've been working although you've done Yorkshire, but really you've done Yorkshire, but really you've done Yorkshire, but really interested in your experience of working interested in your experience of working interested in your experience of working with. with. with. Yeah. So, um, I work on a landscape Yeah. So, um, I work on a landscape Yeah. So, um, I work on a landscape recovery project um, alongside Phil. Um, recovery project um, alongside Phil. Um, recovery project um, alongside Phil. Um, we're all Yeah. all in it together. I we're all Yeah. all in it together. I we're all Yeah. all in it together. I very much echo everything Phil has said. very much echo everything Phil has said. very much echo everything Phil has said. Yeah. We we talk about it almost daily Yeah. We we talk about it almost daily Yeah. We we talk about it almost daily at the moment as we're trying to take at the moment as we're trying to take at the moment as we're trying to take the project forward. Um yeah, also the project forward. Um yeah, also the project forward. Um yeah, also involved in biodiversity net gain. We involved in biodiversity net gain. We involved in biodiversity net gain. We have our own habitat bank on the farm have our own habitat bank on the farm have our own habitat bank on the farm that we set up quite early on and again that we set up quite early on and again that we set up quite early on and again it's a really difficult space to try and it's a really difficult space to try and it's a really difficult space to try and navigate at the moment with so much navigate at the moment with so much navigate at the moment with so much uncertainty from the government and the uncertainty from the government and the uncertainty from the government and the markets. Um yeah, other things that we s markets. Um yeah, other things that we s markets. Um yeah, other things that we s I'll probably focus on because Phil's I'll probably focus on because Phil's I'll probably focus on because Phil's made so many brilliant points is our made so many brilliant points is our made so many brilliant points is our pollutulture trials in collaboration pollutulture trials in collaboration pollutulture trials in collaboration with UK center for ecology and with UK center for ecology and with UK center for ecology and hydrarology. Um that's a way that we're hydrarology. Um that's a way that we're hydrarology. Um that's a way that we're really trying to work out, you know, the really trying to work out, you know, the really trying to work out, you know, the future of land farming on Pete and how future of land farming on Pete and how future of land farming on Pete and how we can learn to do things differently or we can learn to do things differently or we can learn to do things differently or more sustainably. Um we do also have more sustainably. Um we do also have more sustainably. Um we do also have what we call sustainable farming trials what we call sustainable farming trials what we call sustainable farming trials on Pete alongside the pollutulture where on Pete alongside the pollutulture where on Pete alongside the pollutulture where we are um sort of comparing how the we are um sort of comparing how the we are um sort of comparing how the crops act on sort of business as usual crops act on sort of business as usual crops act on sort of business as usual Pete versus wet Pete. So for example Pete versus wet Pete. So for example Pete versus wet Pete. So for example things like mscanthus. Um yeah I can't things like mscanthus. Um yeah I can't things like mscanthus. Um yeah I can't say too much about what we're growing at say too much about what we're growing at say too much about what we're growing at the moment. There's going to be a big the moment. There's going to be a big the moment. There's going to be a big press release coming in the next few press release coming in the next few press release coming in the next few weeks which we're really excited for. weeks which we're really excited for. weeks which we're really excited for. Um, so look out for that on Oxillow Um, so look out for that on Oxillow Um, so look out for that on Oxillow social media and also uh UKCh's, social media and also uh UKCh's, social media and also uh UKCh's, but it's it's been a really great but it's it's been a really great but it's it's been a really great journey so far with the Pluto trials. journey so far with the Pluto trials. journey so far with the Pluto trials. We've managed to prove that a plastic We've managed to prove that a plastic We've managed to prove that a plastic liner can work as long as you get it liner can work as long as you get it liner can work as long as you get it into the right sort of clay. We tried into the right sort of clay. We tried into the right sort of clay. We tried three different sites across the farm three different sites across the farm three different sites across the farm before we found the right one. So before we found the right one. So before we found the right one. So geology is so important. Um, also water geology is so important. Um, also water geology is so important. Um, also water availability availability availability um is fairly obvious. We're lucky where um is fairly obvious. We're lucky where um is fairly obvious. We're lucky where we are that we are next to a tidal river we are that we are next to a tidal river we are that we are next to a tidal river that has a lot of water that we can let that has a lot of water that we can let that has a lot of water that we can let into the system. But saying that, this into the system. But saying that, this into the system. But saying that, this week we are almost on a complete ban for week we are almost on a complete ban for week we are almost on a complete ban for irrigation and abstraction. So that was irrigation and abstraction. So that was irrigation and abstraction. So that was a really good start to an early trial. a really good start to an early trial. a really good start to an early trial. But so far it's it's coping okay and you But so far it's it's coping okay and you But so far it's it's coping okay and you know hopefully the weather will um know hopefully the weather will um know hopefully the weather will um behave. But yeah, again I just need to behave. But yeah, again I just need to behave. But yeah, again I just need to echo everything that Phil has said and echo everything that Phil has said and echo everything that Phil has said and probably add to the government that we probably add to the government that we probably add to the government that we really need some more like research and really need some more like research and really need some more like research and development in the sector on land. development in the sector on land. development in the sector on land. um more education and yeah, just more um more education and yeah, just more um more education and yeah, just more support to to keep going with it and support to to keep going with it and support to to keep going with it and keep learning what is the right way to keep learning what is the right way to keep learning what is the right way to go so that we can continue working, you go so that we can continue working, you go so that we can continue working, you know, with food, farming, um know, with food, farming, um know, with food, farming, um biodiversity, emissions, just everything biodiversity, emissions, just everything biodiversity, emissions, just everything and and try and make it all work and and try and make it all work and and try and make it all work together and some joined up thinking together and some joined up thinking together and some joined up thinking would really be great. Is is the picture would really be great. Is is the picture would really be great. Is is the picture that you you've given us on the on the that you you've given us on the on the that you you've given us on the on the screen one of your trials? Yeah. So the screen one of your trials? Yeah. So the screen one of your trials? Yeah. So the top picture across there, that's one of top picture across there, that's one of top picture across there, that's one of our biodiversity net gain sites. Um our biodiversity net gain sites. Um our biodiversity net gain sites. Um that's on our skirt land. So it is a that's on our skirt land. So it is a that's on our skirt land. So it is a little bit pety down the bottom, but little bit pety down the bottom, but little bit pety down the bottom, but it's not a full representation of sort it's not a full representation of sort it's not a full representation of sort of land pete. Um but yeah, that's other of land pete. Um but yeah, that's other of land pete. Um but yeah, that's other neutral grassland on there. And there neutral grassland on there. And there neutral grassland on there. And there are some wet areas at the bottom. And are some wet areas at the bottom. And are some wet areas at the bottom. And then in the bottom right, you've got the then in the bottom right, you've got the then in the bottom right, you've got the Pluto trials. So on the bright green Pluto trials. So on the bright green Pluto trials. So on the bright green strip there, that's where the plastic strip there, that's where the plastic strip there, that's where the plastic liner is. Um, and you can just see the liner is. Um, and you can just see the liner is. Um, and you can just see the really ochre colored dyke, which is is really ochre colored dyke, which is is really ochre colored dyke, which is is actually, I'm happy to say, now gone actually, I'm happy to say, now gone actually, I'm happy to say, now gone completely crystal clear. Um, that was completely crystal clear. Um, that was completely crystal clear. Um, that was sort of an early picture of when we sort of an early picture of when we sort of an early picture of when we first rewetted it. Um, and you know, you first rewetted it. Um, and you know, you first rewetted it. Um, and you know, you get a lot of leeching out of the land at get a lot of leeching out of the land at get a lot of leeching out of the land at first, but that has now gone clear. So, first, but that has now gone clear. So, first, but that has now gone clear. So, there's mscanthampus growing in there. there's mscanthampus growing in there. there's mscanthampus growing in there. And then the bottom left, that's some of And then the bottom left, that's some of And then the bottom left, that's some of our sustainable farming trials where our sustainable farming trials where our sustainable farming trials where we're sort of growing some different we're sort of growing some different we're sort of growing some different mixes for wildlife on Pete and and it's mixes for wildlife on Pete and and it's mixes for wildlife on Pete and and it's that's been a real joy to have alongside that's been a real joy to have alongside that's been a real joy to have alongside arable farming because it's just arable farming because it's just arable farming because it's just absolutely humming with wildlife. What absolutely humming with wildlife. What absolutely humming with wildlife. What what wildlife have you seen? Just so what wildlife have you seen? Just so what wildlife have you seen? Just so interesting. Just about every kind of interesting. Just about every kind of interesting. Just about every kind of pollinator. I mean, I'm not really up on pollinator. I mean, I'm not really up on pollinator. I mean, I'm not really up on on all of them, but just bees, on all of them, but just bees, on all of them, but just bees, butterflies, birds, um hairs running butterflies, birds, um hairs running butterflies, birds, um hairs running around. It's been really lovely. It's, around. It's been really lovely. It's, around. It's been really lovely. It's, you can see it's been a safe haven in you can see it's been a safe haven in you can see it's been a safe haven in quite a quite plain landscape at the quite a quite plain landscape at the quite a quite plain landscape at the moment where everything just flocks to, moment where everything just flocks to, moment where everything just flocks to, you know, when it when it needs to hide. you know, when it when it needs to hide. you know, when it when it needs to hide. So, it's been a real joy to do. So, it's been a real joy to do. So, it's been a real joy to do. Excellent. Excellent. Thank you very Excellent. Excellent. Thank you very Excellent. Excellent. Thank you very much, much, much, Sarah. Um, from uh as head of petland Sarah. Um, from uh as head of petland Sarah. Um, from uh as head of petland nature recovery at the wildlife trust um nature recovery at the wildlife trust um nature recovery at the wildlife trust um Lancaster, Manchester and North Mosy Lancaster, Manchester and North Mosy Lancaster, Manchester and North Mosy side um you've done a lot of work in side um you've done a lot of work in side um you've done a lot of work in this area and polluted culture trials. this area and polluted culture trials. this area and polluted culture trials. I'm interested to hear about how they're I'm interested to hear about how they're I'm interested to hear about how they're going. Yes. So yes, so um obviously yeah going. Yes. So yes, so um obviously yeah going. Yes. So yes, so um obviously yeah we work in the northwest of England and we work in the northwest of England and we work in the northwest of England and um in our area um we've got some of the um in our area um we've got some of the um in our area um we've got some of the largest remaining extents of um pet lan largest remaining extents of um pet lan largest remaining extents of um pet lan pet soils and the vast majority of those pet soils and the vast majority of those pet soils and the vast majority of those pet soils as elsewhere in the UK have pet soils as elsewhere in the UK have pet soils as elsewhere in the UK have been drained and converted largely for been drained and converted largely for been drained and converted largely for agriculture and um I guess in agriculture and um I guess in agriculture and um I guess in recognition that um you know these areas recognition that um you know these areas recognition that um you know these areas will continue to be strategically will continue to be strategically will continue to be strategically important for the regional economy so important for the regional economy so important for the regional economy so there isn't the option to take most of there isn't the option to take most of there isn't the option to take most of those areas is out of agriculture. Um those areas is out of agriculture. Um those areas is out of agriculture. Um but at the same time as we've seen you but at the same time as we've seen you but at the same time as we've seen you know elsewhere as well we're looking at know elsewhere as well we're looking at know elsewhere as well we're looking at sort of the climatees um you know longer sort of the climatees um you know longer sort of the climatees um you know longer droughts drought periods and then droughts drought periods and then droughts drought periods and then intense rainfall periods and you know intense rainfall periods and you know intense rainfall periods and you know everyone is seeing sort of issues with everyone is seeing sort of issues with everyone is seeing sort of issues with soil degradation and loss of oxidizing soil degradation and loss of oxidizing soil degradation and loss of oxidizing of those those peak soils in dry areas. of those those peak soils in dry areas. of those those peak soils in dry areas. So um I think talking with farmers that So um I think talking with farmers that So um I think talking with farmers that we're engaged with there's a recognition we're engaged with there's a recognition we're engaged with there's a recognition that in some areas there's only a that in some areas there's only a that in some areas there's only a significant amount of Pete's going to be significant amount of Pete's going to be significant amount of Pete's going to be left for the next 50 years or so. So we left for the next 50 years or so. So we left for the next 50 years or so. So we need to think of how we can do things need to think of how we can do things need to think of how we can do things differently and try and the challenge differently and try and the challenge differently and try and the challenge and opportunity has been to try and find and opportunity has been to try and find and opportunity has been to try and find solutions that will still balance the solutions that will still balance the solutions that will still balance the needs of the environment and the climate needs of the environment and the climate needs of the environment and the climate but also the needs of the people who are but also the needs of the people who are but also the needs of the people who are living and working in those areas. So um living and working in those areas. So um living and working in those areas. So um languual wildife trust um we sort of languual wildife trust um we sort of languual wildife trust um we sort of started out I guess you know we've been started out I guess you know we've been started out I guess you know we've been working in on pete soils for over three working in on pete soils for over three working in on pete soils for over three decades and that used to be on the decades and that used to be on the decades and that used to be on the restoration of those core conservation restoration of those core conservation restoration of those core conservation areas but looking in the landscape we areas but looking in the landscape we areas but looking in the landscape we realized that looking and work at those realized that looking and work at those realized that looking and work at those agricultural areas and working with agricultural areas and working with agricultural areas and working with those who are living and working there those who are living and working there those who are living and working there is the best way forward we want to try is the best way forward we want to try is the best way forward we want to try and you know make that our big gains we and you know make that our big gains we and you know make that our big gains we want to see for the climate and the want to see for the climate and the want to see for the climate and the environment. So we've been working with environment. So we've been working with environment. So we've been working with partners such as Cam and his mom Lisa partners such as Cam and his mom Lisa partners such as Cam and his mom Lisa here and others in the farm is trying to here and others in the farm is trying to here and others in the farm is trying to find ways forward that will work for find ways forward that will work for find ways forward that will work for everyone. So we kind of embarked in our everyone. So we kind of embarked in our everyone. So we kind of embarked in our first wetter farming trial back in 2020. first wetter farming trial back in 2020. first wetter farming trial back in 2020. Um Lanasher Wild Trust um has a what we Um Lanasher Wild Trust um has a what we Um Lanasher Wild Trust um has a what we call our flagship nature reserve in call our flagship nature reserve in call our flagship nature reserve in North Laner with Marley Moss and we North Laner with Marley Moss and we North Laner with Marley Moss and we managed to acquire some um pets directly managed to acquire some um pets directly managed to acquire some um pets directly adjacent to the trips. So we wanted to adjacent to the trips. So we wanted to adjacent to the trips. So we wanted to explore what could be um done explore what could be um done explore what could be um done differently on so what these more differently on so what these more differently on so what these more marginal more difficult to manage land. marginal more difficult to manage land. marginal more difficult to manage land. The reason the person sold it to us The reason the person sold it to us The reason the person sold it to us because it was it was you know because it was it was you know because it was it was you know underwater for several months of the underwater for several months of the underwater for several months of the year. So that was where we set up our year. So that was where we set up our year. So that was where we set up our Wimali carbon farm. So that was we Wimali carbon farm. So that was we Wimali carbon farm. So that was we essentially raised the water table and essentially raised the water table and essentially raised the water table and planted a um permanent cover crop of planted a um permanent cover crop of planted a um permanent cover crop of swag and moss. So the product if you swag and moss. So the product if you swag and moss. So the product if you like of that was the carbon that would like of that was the carbon that would like of that was the carbon that would be um protected in the peak soles and in be um protected in the peak soles and in be um protected in the peak soles and in much longer term sequested. And so we much longer term sequested. And so we much longer term sequested. And so we were looking at how it could be done how were looking at how it could be done how were looking at how it could be done how we could raise the water table and not we could raise the water table and not we could raise the water table and not flood you know the neighboring land flood you know the neighboring land flood you know the neighboring land which is a key concern of anyone who's which is a key concern of anyone who's which is a key concern of anyone who's looking at this from a farming point of looking at this from a farming point of looking at this from a farming point of view and what would be the carbon view and what would be the carbon view and what would be the carbon savings from doing that and we've seen savings from doing that and we've seen savings from doing that and we've seen really positive results in terms of really positive results in terms of really positive results in terms of massive reduction in um carbon emissions massive reduction in um carbon emissions massive reduction in um carbon emissions from the carbon farm compared to the from the carbon farm compared to the from the carbon farm compared to the sort of surrounding land. So that's been sort of surrounding land. So that's been sort of surrounding land. So that's been really positive and that's been going really positive and that's been going really positive and that's been going since 2020 2021 and we've got a quite since 2020 2021 and we've got a quite since 2020 2021 and we've got a quite really great sort of carpet of the really great sort of carpet of the really great sort of carpet of the spagen mosses and it's more or less sort spagen mosses and it's more or less sort spagen mosses and it's more or less sort of managing itself. We have to do some of managing itself. We have to do some of managing itself. We have to do some sort of um you know so weed management sort of um you know so weed management sort of um you know so weed management but it's looking pretty good and we've but it's looking pretty good and we've but it's looking pretty good and we've seen as you've mentioned wildlife moving seen as you've mentioned wildlife moving seen as you've mentioned wildlife moving across without us bringing it in because across without us bringing it in because across without us bringing it in because we're not we're not harvesting it. We we're not we're not harvesting it. We we're not we're not harvesting it. We don't need to be a pure crop. So we're don't need to be a pure crop. So we're don't need to be a pure crop. So we're seeing you know bog plants coming seeing you know bog plants coming seeing you know bog plants coming through and other um wildlife moving in through and other um wildlife moving in through and other um wildlife moving in to use the area. That's really positive. to use the area. That's really positive. to use the area. That's really positive. But that was our first trial. Um, and we But that was our first trial. Um, and we But that was our first trial. Um, and we had did a lot of we're very keen to had did a lot of we're very keen to had did a lot of we're very keen to bring farmers onto the site to ask them bring farmers onto the site to ask them bring farmers onto the site to ask them what do you think about what we're what do you think about what we're what do you think about what we're doing? What would you do differently? doing? What would you do differently? doing? What would you do differently? What are the questions that it raises? What are the questions that it raises? What are the questions that it raises? And so one of them was like, how do we And so one of them was like, how do we And so one of them was like, how do we make sure we don't flood neighboring make sure we don't flood neighboring make sure we don't flood neighboring lands? But also, what about food lands? But also, what about food lands? But also, what about food security? This is great you're doing security? This is great you're doing security? This is great you're doing this, but we can't take all the areas this, but we can't take all the areas this, but we can't take all the areas that we're growing food out to do even that we're growing food out to do even that we're growing food out to do even to do this kind of um alternative thing. to do this kind of um alternative thing. to do this kind of um alternative thing. So we thought okay let's look at that So we thought okay let's look at that So we thought okay let's look at that question what can be grown what food question what can be grown what food question what can be grown what food crops can we grow so uh we managed to crops can we grow so uh we managed to crops can we grow so uh we managed to buy some um other petals in greater buy some um other petals in greater buy some um other petals in greater Manchester again it'd been used for Manchester again it'd been used for Manchester again it'd been used for growing potatoes and other crops but growing potatoes and other crops but growing potatoes and other crops but again it become increasingly difficult again it become increasingly difficult again it become increasingly difficult for the farmer to manage and that's why for the farmer to manage and that's why for the farmer to manage and that's why they were selling it. So we wanted to they were selling it. So we wanted to they were selling it. So we wanted to look at growing conventional food crops look at growing conventional food crops look at growing conventional food crops to try and look at the questions of what to try and look at the questions of what to try and look at the questions of what crops can be grown, how high can we crops can be grown, how high can we crops can be grown, how high can we raise the water table and still get a raise the water table and still get a raise the water table and still get a crop and what what does that do for crop and what what does that do for crop and what what does that do for carbon emissions. So we first set out at carbon emissions. So we first set out at carbon emissions. So we first set out at the moment we've got um blueberries the moment we've got um blueberries the moment we've got um blueberries which will be cropping this year. We've which will be cropping this year. We've which will be cropping this year. We've tried um celery and lettuce to varying tried um celery and lettuce to varying tried um celery and lettuce to varying degrees of success. And we're also this degrees of success. And we're also this degrees of success. And we're also this year we have Chinese leaf and radishes year we have Chinese leaf and radishes year we have Chinese leaf and radishes which are doing well and we're hoping to which are doing well and we're hoping to which are doing well and we're hoping to harvest um in the next few weeks. So we harvest um in the next few weeks. So we harvest um in the next few weeks. So we don't want to look at niche crops. We don't want to look at niche crops. We don't want to look at niche crops. We were trying to look at the crops that were trying to look at the crops that were trying to look at the crops that are grown already in the region to not are grown already in the region to not are grown already in the region to not put in too many new variables just see put in too many new variables just see put in too many new variables just see what what works and what doesn't and what what works and what doesn't and what what works and what doesn't and trying to get the data around carbon trying to get the data around carbon trying to get the data around carbon emissions and yields that can be fed emissions and yields that can be fed emissions and yields that can be fed into policy as well. so we can try and into policy as well. so we can try and into policy as well. so we can try and develop the policy and the funding develop the policy and the funding develop the policy and the funding mechanism that will support a scaling mechanism that will support a scaling mechanism that will support a scaling up. So that's ongoing and more recently up. So that's ongoing and more recently up. So that's ongoing and more recently we've been working with with Cameron um we've been working with with Cameron um we've been working with with Cameron um and another farmer looking at uh bull and another farmer looking at uh bull and another farmer looking at uh bull rush typher. So again, another kind of rush typher. So again, another kind of rush typher. So again, another kind of wetter farming crop, obviously not a wetter farming crop, obviously not a wetter farming crop, obviously not a food crop, although I think there are food crop, although I think there are food crop, although I think there are potentially food things you can do with potentially food things you can do with potentially food things you can do with Cypher, but we're looking at we're Cypher, but we're looking at we're Cypher, but we're looking at we're working with a company called Ponder, working with a company called Ponder, working with a company called Ponder, who some people might have heard of, who who some people might have heard of, who who some people might have heard of, who are looking at plant-based um textiles, are looking at plant-based um textiles, are looking at plant-based um textiles, so insulation for puffer jackets, so so insulation for puffer jackets, so so insulation for puffer jackets, so obviously like a potentially high-end obviously like a potentially high-end obviously like a potentially high-end market, and the seed heads from the B market, and the seed heads from the B market, and the seed heads from the B rush are harvested and created into this rush are harvested and created into this rush are harvested and created into this plant-based textile and they've got plant-based textile and they've got plant-based textile and they've got links to the fashion industry. So really links to the fashion industry. So really links to the fashion industry. So really try and looking at the business models try and looking at the business models try and looking at the business models that can support different types of that can support different types of that can support different types of wetter farming and um yes so we had one wetter farming and um yes so we had one wetter farming and um yes so we had one trial which set up through the culture trial which set up through the culture trial which set up through the culture exploration fund in Greater Manchester exploration fund in Greater Manchester exploration fund in Greater Manchester and we're hoping to harvest this year and we're hoping to harvest this year and we're hoping to harvest this year and that's that's again it's we're it's and that's that's again it's we're it's and that's that's again it's we're it's a learnings about how do you do the a learnings about how do you do the a learnings about how do you do the setup? How do you control the water setup? How do you control the water setup? How do you control the water table and stabilize the water table? table and stabilize the water table? table and stabilize the water table? What do you do when you got prolonged What do you do when you got prolonged What do you do when you got prolonged dry periods or intense rainfall? How do dry periods or intense rainfall? How do dry periods or intense rainfall? How do you manage that and and all the you manage that and and all the you manage that and and all the questions around it? So we and we're questions around it? So we and we're questions around it? So we and we're trying to get the a lot of environmental trying to get the a lot of environmental trying to get the a lot of environmental data to back up what is happening again data to back up what is happening again data to back up what is happening again to feed into policy and funding to feed into policy and funding to feed into policy and funding mechanisms for the future. And then mechanisms for the future. And then mechanisms for the future. And then through the land agricultural Pete Worth through the land agricultural Pete Worth through the land agricultural Pete Worth discovery pilot, not a good catchy name. discovery pilot, not a good catchy name. discovery pilot, not a good catchy name. Um we've got our second type of trial Um we've got our second type of trial Um we've got our second type of trial working with Cameron and his his mother working with Cameron and his his mother working with Cameron and his his mother um looking at that. And the key thing um looking at that. And the key thing um looking at that. And the key thing for these last two trials, we we're for these last two trials, we we're for these last two trials, we we're wildlife trust. We are not farmers. So wildlife trust. We are not farmers. So wildlife trust. We are not farmers. So we're very keen to go on a learning we're very keen to go on a learning we're very keen to go on a learning journey together and so Cameron has been journey together and so Cameron has been journey together and so Cameron has been you know he has done the groundworks and you know he has done the groundworks and you know he has done the groundworks and worked with us on the design. Um Cameron worked with us on the design. Um Cameron worked with us on the design. Um Cameron is managing the site and will be you is managing the site and will be you is managing the site and will be you know the harvesting side things. We got know the harvesting side things. We got know the harvesting side things. We got a scrap heat challenge ongoing which a scrap heat challenge ongoing which a scrap heat challenge ongoing which Cameron will talk about looking at what Cameron will talk about looking at what Cameron will talk about looking at what how do you mechanize the process of how do you mechanize the process of how do you mechanize the process of harvesting the crop because that's one harvesting the crop because that's one harvesting the crop because that's one of the biggest challenge has been not so of the biggest challenge has been not so of the biggest challenge has been not so much raising the water table but um much raising the water table but um much raising the water table but um keeping the water table where you want keeping the water table where you want keeping the water table where you want it but also how do you get on to harvest it but also how do you get on to harvest it but also how do you get on to harvest these wetter areas be it like how you these wetter areas be it like how you these wetter areas be it like how you set up the land so you got areas to get set up the land so you got areas to get set up the land so you got areas to get machinery on or do you have to think of machinery on or do you have to think of machinery on or do you have to think of things slight differently. So we've used things slight differently. So we've used things slight differently. So we've used a drone to um seed, you know, do the the a drone to um seed, you know, do the the a drone to um seed, you know, do the the sewing. And so it's looking at the sewing. And so it's looking at the sewing. And so it's looking at the technological answers um as well as technological answers um as well as technological answers um as well as getting the data to um show what is getting the data to um show what is getting the data to um show what is happening below the surface as well as happening below the surface as well as happening below the surface as well as on top and feed that into the policy on top and feed that into the policy on top and feed that into the policy that we need to support it. If we want that we need to support it. If we want that we need to support it. If we want this to scale up, there has to be the this to scale up, there has to be the this to scale up, there has to be the policy and funding mechanism because no policy and funding mechanism because no policy and funding mechanism because no business is going to go into something business is going to go into something business is going to go into something that is a big unknown. So we need to that is a big unknown. So we need to that is a big unknown. So we need to demonstrate the business viability of demonstrate the business viability of demonstrate the business viability of it. So you're actually doing drone it. So you're actually doing drone it. So you're actually doing drone seeding. Yeah. Yeah. So we did that on seeding. Yeah. Yeah. So we did that on seeding. Yeah. Yeah. So we did that on both our um uh both the the pep site and both our um uh both the the pep site and both our um uh both the the pep site and the lapwood site. So these like it's the lapwood site. So these like it's the lapwood site. So these like it's like feels a bit like war of the world. like feels a bit like war of the world. like feels a bit like war of the world. It's like huge mega drone coming It's like huge mega drone coming It's like huge mega drone coming forwards like with we looked at using um forwards like with we looked at using um forwards like with we looked at using um clay pellets with the seas encapsulated clay pellets with the seas encapsulated clay pellets with the seas encapsulated as well as using this kind of gel like as well as using this kind of gel like as well as using this kind of gel like ghostbuster type approach and it ghostbuster type approach and it ghostbuster type approach and it minimizes the disturbance of a habitat. minimizes the disturbance of a habitat. minimizes the disturbance of a habitat. Absolutely. Yes. So if we can minimize Absolutely. Yes. So if we can minimize Absolutely. Yes. So if we can minimize the disturbance of the pete soils. So the disturbance of the pete soils. So the disturbance of the pete soils. So that's why also in terms of where we're that's why also in terms of where we're that's why also in terms of where we're doing our food crop growing, we're doing our food crop growing, we're doing our food crop growing, we're looking at um I think the way for might looking at um I think the way for might looking at um I think the way for might be more towards perennial rather than be more towards perennial rather than be more towards perennial rather than annual crops. So you're minimizing the annual crops. So you're minimizing the annual crops. So you're minimizing the source. So it's all those kind of source. So it's all those kind of source. So it's all those kind of questions we need to keep thinking about questions we need to keep thinking about questions we need to keep thinking about and working with the farmers because as and working with the farmers because as and working with the farmers because as I say we're wildlife trust, we're not I say we're wildlife trust, we're not I say we're wildlife trust, we're not farmers and we need to learn as much farmers and we need to learn as much farmers and we need to learn as much from those who are who have been from those who are who have been from those who are who have been managing the man for decades and decades managing the man for decades and decades managing the man for decades and decades before us. Could I just come in there before us. Could I just come in there before us. Could I just come in there because um we'll be seing 250 acres in because um we'll be seing 250 acres in because um we'll be seing 250 acres in Norfolk with a drone. probably the same Norfolk with a drone. probably the same Norfolk with a drone. probably the same drone huge like 50 kilo payload um you drone huge like 50 kilo payload um you drone huge like 50 kilo payload um you know probably 10 hectares ago if we get know probably 10 hectares ago if we get know probably 10 hectares ago if we get the seed rate right um we might be the seed rate right um we might be the seed rate right um we might be leading using a wooden kitty litter with leading using a wooden kitty litter with leading using a wooden kitty litter with it to make it distribute it so yeah no it to make it distribute it so yeah no it to make it distribute it so yeah no drone technology is funded by the defa drone technology is funded by the defa drone technology is funded by the defa fund work so the our typher both our fund work so the our typher both our fund work so the our typher both our typher trials one was they're both for typher trials one was they're both for typher trials one was they're both for the nature for climate pot I suppose so the nature for climate pot I suppose so the nature for climate pot I suppose so one was um the first was with the pluto one was um the first was with the pluto one was um the first was with the pluto culture exploration fund and the same culture exploration fund and the same culture exploration fund and the same with what What we call the lapwing the with what What we call the lapwing the with what What we call the lapwing the lapwood the lone a peach water scurry lapwood the lone a peach water scurry lapwood the lone a peach water scurry pine one yeah is that is that's the pine one yeah is that is that's the pine one yeah is that is that's the lapwing fun that's what I call it in my lapwing fun that's what I call it in my lapwing fun that's what I call it in my head because it's too long time but yeah head because it's too long time but yeah head because it's too long time but yeah and we're lucky to have both of those and we're lucky to have both of those and we're lucky to have both of those projects have just been extended for projects have just been extended for projects have just been extended for another year so it's great I mean it has another year so it's great I mean it has another year so it's great I mean it has to be said that deer have put quite a to be said that deer have put quite a to be said that deer have put quite a lot into doing projects and things with lot into doing projects and things with lot into doing projects and things with the lum task force recommendations yeah the lum task force recommendations yeah the lum task force recommendations yeah I I kind of feel that um I I kind of feel that um I I kind of feel that um there used to be much more focus on I there used to be much more focus on I there used to be much more focus on I guess upland land restoration that is guess upland land restoration that is guess upland land restoration that is still yeah very important but I think it still yeah very important but I think it still yeah very important but I think it used to feel like lands were thought used to feel like lands were thought used to feel like lands were thought it's too difficult it's too challenging it's too difficult it's too challenging it's too difficult it's too challenging we're just not even going to go there we're just not even going to go there we're just not even going to go there but I think the penny has dropped on the but I think the penny has dropped on the but I think the penny has dropped on the carbon emissions that are coming from carbon emissions that are coming from carbon emissions that are coming from land peak that we can't not look at that land peak that we can't not look at that land peak that we can't not look at that area yes it is more challenging because area yes it is more challenging because area yes it is more challenging because of you know we we grow a lot of food of you know we we grow a lot of food of you know we we grow a lot of food crops there and other challenges but crops there and other challenges but crops there and other challenges but that is where a lot of the solutions can that is where a lot of the solutions can that is where a lot of the solutions can be found if we work together with all be found if we work together with all be found if we work together with all those people who are working on that those people who are working on that those people who are working on that land yeah it's worth noting I think 35% land yeah it's worth noting I think 35% land yeah it's worth noting I think 35% % of our vegetables that we eat in the % of our vegetables that we eat in the % of our vegetables that we eat in the UK come from land. So there's a big UK come from land. So there's a big UK come from land. So there's a big challenge there. But you're really challenge there. But you're really challenge there. But you're really looking at options for that in a way. looking at options for that in a way. looking at options for that in a way. And that's Yeah, I think we have to look And that's Yeah, I think we have to look And that's Yeah, I think we have to look at all options to see what what and it's at all options to see what what and it's at all options to see what what and it's not going to be one one thing that's not going to be one one thing that's not going to be one one thing that's going to be answered. It's going to be a going to be answered. It's going to be a going to be answered. It's going to be a mosaic of of solutions, I think. And mosaic of of solutions, I think. And mosaic of of solutions, I think. And that's that's has to be recognized both that's that's has to be recognized both that's that's has to be recognized both because regionally east of England and because regionally east of England and because regionally east of England and the northwest the rainfall differences the northwest the rainfall differences the northwest the rainfall differences are you know massive and and in the are you know massive and and in the are you know massive and and in the northwest at the moment we don't have uh northwest at the moment we don't have uh northwest at the moment we don't have uh internal drainage board whereas internal drainage board whereas internal drainage board whereas obviously that is saturation elsewhere. obviously that is saturation elsewhere. obviously that is saturation elsewhere. So there's different challenges but So there's different challenges but So there's different challenges but there are commonalities in terms of is there are commonalities in terms of is there are commonalities in terms of is how do you you know look at managing how do you you know look at managing how do you you know look at managing acid carbon source. Yeah. Thank you very acid carbon source. Yeah. Thank you very acid carbon source. Yeah. Thank you very much. I'm intrigued to know what the much. I'm intrigued to know what the much. I'm intrigued to know what the food source from Typher is but let's see food source from Typher is but let's see food source from Typher is but let's see I'll hear that later. Um Cameron over to I'll hear that later. Um Cameron over to I'll hear that later. Um Cameron over to you now. Um and your experience of of you now. Um and your experience of of you now. Um and your experience of of working on these lowland soils and new working on these lowland soils and new working on these lowland soils and new projects. Thank you. Uh yes. So I'm projects. Thank you. Uh yes. So I'm projects. Thank you. Uh yes. So I'm Cameron. Um where farmers from southwest Cameron. Um where farmers from southwest Cameron. Um where farmers from southwest Lancasher um are growing mainly Lancasher um are growing mainly Lancasher um are growing mainly combinable crops and potatoes. Uh most combinable crops and potatoes. Uh most combinable crops and potatoes. Uh most of the farm's on deep. Um some of it up of the farm's on deep. Um some of it up of the farm's on deep. Um some of it up to four meters deep. Um at least 100 to four meters deep. Um at least 100 to four meters deep. Um at least 100 acres of the farm is right in the middle acres of the farm is right in the middle acres of the farm is right in the middle of the bowl. Um which is uh really of the bowl. Um which is uh really of the bowl. Um which is uh really really wet and it's becoming really really wet and it's becoming really really wet and it's becoming really difficult to try farm as we have done difficult to try farm as we have done difficult to try farm as we have done for the last 100 years. Um so we started for the last 100 years. Um so we started for the last 100 years. Um so we started looking at alternatives. looking at alternatives. looking at alternatives. Um so a project came up with a wildlife Um so a project came up with a wildlife Um so a project came up with a wildlife trust um with the Lowerland Agriculture trust um with the Lowerland Agriculture trust um with the Lowerland Agriculture Pete Water Discovery Pilot um growing Pete Water Discovery Pilot um growing Pete Water Discovery Pilot um growing typher. So we uh we we started a six typher. So we uh we we started a six typher. So we uh we we started a six hectare typher trial um field scale. So hectare typher trial um field scale. So hectare typher trial um field scale. So um we we started it in August last year um we we started it in August last year um we we started it in August last year and I did all the ground works myself. and I did all the ground works myself. and I did all the ground works myself. So I went in with my digger and put a So I went in with my digger and put a So I went in with my digger and put a bund right around the exterior of the bund right around the exterior of the bund right around the exterior of the six hector field. And the idea with that six hector field. And the idea with that six hector field. And the idea with that was to keep the water table in the field was to keep the water table in the field was to keep the water table in the field and not wet any of the surrounding and not wet any of the surrounding and not wet any of the surrounding fields so we can still farm them as we fields so we can still farm them as we fields so we can still farm them as we were. So we did that. Uh that all went were. So we did that. Uh that all went were. So we did that. Uh that all went well. No major disasters. We didn't get well. No major disasters. We didn't get well. No major disasters. We didn't get stuck. So that was good. And you've you stuck. So that was good. And you've you stuck. So that was good. And you've you did the best bunding apparently that did the best bunding apparently that did the best bunding apparently that we've ever seen. So yeah. Wow. Great. Do we've ever seen. So yeah. Wow. Great. Do we've ever seen. So yeah. Wow. Great. Do you want to actually explain what bund you want to actually explain what bund you want to actually explain what bund is? Because some people in the room is? Because some people in the room is? Because some people in the room might not. Yeah. So um we we used a might not. Yeah. So um we we used a might not. Yeah. So um we we used a method called a deep trench bund which method called a deep trench bund which method called a deep trench bund which is where you use the pete to make a is where you use the pete to make a is where you use the pete to make a watertight bund and you go in and you watertight bund and you go in and you watertight bund and you go in and you kind of like invert it. Yeah. Um so you kind of like invert it. Yeah. Um so you kind of like invert it. Yeah. Um so you invert the pete sort of one one and a invert the pete sort of one one and a invert the pete sort of one one and a half meters down and then as you do that half meters down and then as you do that half meters down and then as you do that you then compact it again and then when you then compact it again and then when you then compact it again and then when that rewets it swells and plugs any gaps that rewets it swells and plugs any gaps that rewets it swells and plugs any gaps and uh it's it's quite impressive cuz it and uh it's it's quite impressive cuz it and uh it's it's quite impressive cuz it has worked. Yeah. Um you'll have it you has worked. Yeah. Um you'll have it you has worked. Yeah. Um you'll have it you know really wet on one side and you can know really wet on one side and you can know really wet on one side and you can drive with your tractor no trouble on drive with your tractor no trouble on drive with your tractor no trouble on the other. Um, so that's worked quite the other. Um, so that's worked quite the other. Um, so that's worked quite well. So we did that and then re rewet well. So we did that and then re rewet well. So we did that and then re rewet the field. Um, so we just used our the field. Um, so we just used our the field. Um, so we just used our irrigation irrigation irrigation equipment and uh set two for about a equipment and uh set two for about a equipment and uh set two for about a week rewetting it and that brought the week rewetting it and that brought the week rewetting it and that brought the uh water table up. Luckily the field is uh water table up. Luckily the field is uh water table up. Luckily the field is situated right by a main slle which situated right by a main slle which situated right by a main slle which comes out of a water treatment works. So comes out of a water treatment works. So comes out of a water treatment works. So we have an endless supply of water. we have an endless supply of water. we have an endless supply of water. Yeah. and nitrogen and phosphates and Yeah. and nitrogen and phosphates and Yeah. and nitrogen and phosphates and all that stuff that comes with it. Um, all that stuff that comes with it. Um, all that stuff that comes with it. Um, so we've got an endless supply of water. so we've got an endless supply of water. so we've got an endless supply of water. So, um, I don't, well, it's not been a So, um, I don't, well, it's not been a So, um, I don't, well, it's not been a problem this year and we've had a an problem this year and we've had a an problem this year and we've had a an 8week drought uh, and that never ran 8week drought uh, and that never ran 8week drought uh, and that never ran dry. Um, so we've managed to keep it dry. Um, so we've managed to keep it dry. Um, so we've managed to keep it wet. Um, so we did that and then we got wet. Um, so we did that and then we got wet. Um, so we did that and then we got a drone in to sew it uh, in autumn. a drone in to sew it uh, in autumn. a drone in to sew it uh, in autumn. However, we think that was a bit too However, we think that was a bit too However, we think that was a bit too late for the for the typher to want to late for the for the typher to want to late for the for the typher to want to germinate and grow. um as it it likes germinate and grow. um as it it likes germinate and grow. um as it it likes sunlight. So we were a bit a bit too sunlight. So we were a bit a bit too sunlight. So we were a bit a bit too late in the season. So that was a bit late in the season. So that was a bit late in the season. So that was a bit unsuccessful. So we waited till April unsuccessful. So we waited till April unsuccessful. So we waited till April this year and we sewed again and that's this year and we sewed again and that's this year and we sewed again and that's been a lot more successful but it's been a lot more successful but it's been a lot more successful but it's still been quite patchy. Um because still been quite patchy. Um because still been quite patchy. Um because we're at a field scale, managing the we're at a field scale, managing the we're at a field scale, managing the water level is quite difficult because water level is quite difficult because water level is quite difficult because the field might look flat but it isn't. the field might look flat but it isn't. the field might look flat but it isn't. It's uh and the pee swells. I think they It's uh and the pee swells. I think they It's uh and the pee swells. I think they found it swelled about 4 and a half cm found it swelled about 4 and a half cm found it swelled about 4 and a half cm um throughout the field. So, uh some um throughout the field. So, uh some um throughout the field. So, uh some areas of the field are a lot deeper in areas of the field are a lot deeper in areas of the field are a lot deeper in water than others. And we found it's water than others. And we found it's water than others. And we found it's grown really well where the water wasn't grown really well where the water wasn't grown really well where the water wasn't that deep, where it was just boggy. Um that deep, where it was just boggy. Um that deep, where it was just boggy. Um so now we're just trying to get it to so now we're just trying to get it to so now we're just trying to get it to grow where the water was a bit deeper by grow where the water was a bit deeper by grow where the water was a bit deeper by managing the water levels a lot more. managing the water levels a lot more. managing the water levels a lot more. almost bringing the water level up to almost bringing the water level up to almost bringing the water level up to keep the higher bits wet, but then keep the higher bits wet, but then keep the higher bits wet, but then lowering it down for a week or two to lowering it down for a week or two to lowering it down for a week or two to try and germinate the the lower the try and germinate the the lower the try and germinate the the lower the lower areas of the field. Um, so lower areas of the field. Um, so lower areas of the field. Um, so hopefully by this time next year, we'll hopefully by this time next year, we'll hopefully by this time next year, we'll have a full coverage or near enough full have a full coverage or near enough full have a full coverage or near enough full coverage. Um, and we're hoping for a coverage. Um, and we're hoping for a coverage. Um, and we're hoping for a harvest next September. harvest next September. harvest next September. Um, so in that time, I'm also working on Um, so in that time, I'm also working on Um, so in that time, I'm also working on a harvesting machine. So, we uh we a harvesting machine. So, we uh we a harvesting machine. So, we uh we bought an old track dumper that had been bought an old track dumper that had been bought an old track dumper that had been converted to Harvest Apples out of converted to Harvest Apples out of converted to Harvest Apples out of Heraford. Um, so that's had loads of Heraford. Um, so that's had loads of Heraford. Um, so that's had loads of extra hydraulics uh and all that kind of extra hydraulics uh and all that kind of extra hydraulics uh and all that kind of stuff fitted to it. So, I've been busy stuff fitted to it. So, I've been busy stuff fitted to it. So, I've been busy in the workshop last winter converting in the workshop last winter converting in the workshop last winter converting it to have conveyor belt, like a it to have conveyor belt, like a it to have conveyor belt, like a conveyor belt system to fill potato conveyor belt system to fill potato conveyor belt system to fill potato boxes. And then this winter I'll be boxes. And then this winter I'll be boxes. And then this winter I'll be working on the cutter bar. Um, so we're working on the cutter bar. Um, so we're working on the cutter bar. Um, so we're going to convert an old combine header going to convert an old combine header going to convert an old combine header um to make a cut and collect system that um to make a cut and collect system that um to make a cut and collect system that will cut the cut the seed head off uh will cut the cut the seed head off uh will cut the cut the seed head off uh and then collect it into a uh potato box and then collect it into a uh potato box and then collect it into a uh potato box at the back and uh hope I don't get at the back and uh hope I don't get at the back and uh hope I don't get stuck. Yeah. Wow, that's amazing. Yeah, stuck. Yeah. Wow, that's amazing. Yeah, stuck. Yeah. Wow, that's amazing. Yeah, thank you. Well, that's brilliant. And I thank you. Well, that's brilliant. And I thank you. Well, that's brilliant. And I should I should say last year we did a a should I should say last year we did a a should I should say last year we did a a session on wetter farming and we had session on wetter farming and we had session on wetter farming and we had some typhers um and uh products from some typhers um and uh products from some typhers um and uh products from that in in the room. So, if you want to that in in the room. So, if you want to that in in the room. So, if you want to have a look at that um session from last have a look at that um session from last have a look at that um session from last year as as well as being in this one um year as as well as being in this one um year as as well as being in this one um you can see what it looks like and it's you can see what it looks like and it's you can see what it looks like and it's a fantastic alternative to um uh fossil a fantastic alternative to um uh fossil a fantastic alternative to um uh fossil fuel sourced microfers for puffer fuel sourced microfers for puffer fuel sourced microfers for puffer jackets and all sorts really exciting jackets and all sorts really exciting jackets and all sorts really exciting and potential area and and we have a and potential area and and we have a and potential area and and we have a stall from BCN. Um what what number is stall from BCN. Um what what number is stall from BCN. Um what what number is it the stall? it the stall? it the stall? 25 25 over there. You can have a look at 25 25 over there. You can have a look at 25 25 over there. You can have a look at look at some of those kind of um look at some of those kind of um look at some of those kind of um projects and uh products. Really projects and uh products. Really projects and uh products. Really exciting to see um from one of the other exciting to see um from one of the other exciting to see um from one of the other wildlife trusts over there. You won't be wildlife trusts over there. You won't be wildlife trusts over there. You won't be able to miss it. Actually, you've got able to miss it. Actually, you've got able to miss it. Actually, you've got great signs over there. Big wildlife great signs over there. Big wildlife great signs over there. Big wildlife trust signs. Yeah, go that way. Anyway, trust signs. Yeah, go that way. Anyway, trust signs. Yeah, go that way. Anyway, um we now have an opportunity for um we now have an opportunity for um we now have an opportunity for questions. I mean, there's lots of questions. I mean, there's lots of questions. I mean, there's lots of things. I did a run a session on this at things. I did a run a session on this at things. I did a run a session on this at the Oxford Royal Farming Conference and the Oxford Royal Farming Conference and the Oxford Royal Farming Conference and and the chair of the uh Len Peak task and the chair of the uh Len Peak task and the chair of the uh Len Peak task force he gave a great speech talked force he gave a great speech talked force he gave a great speech talked about where what they'd found as a task about where what they'd found as a task about where what they'd found as a task force and there's lots of issues as as force and there's lots of issues as as force and there's lots of issues as as we've heard here and lots of challenges we've heard here and lots of challenges we've heard here and lots of challenges but also lots of opportunities but he but also lots of opportunities but he but also lots of opportunities but he said at the end of his talk it's it's said at the end of his talk it's it's said at the end of his talk it's it's all about water water you know getting all about water water you know getting all about water water you know getting that right and understanding how we need that right and understanding how we need that right and understanding how we need to manage that water and you talked to manage that water and you talked to manage that water and you talked about sort of really managing the water about sort of really managing the water about sort of really managing the water to to get your harvest so it's a it's a to to get your harvest so it's a it's a to to get your harvest so it's a it's a fascinating area and there will be fascinating area and there will be fascinating area and there will be grants to available for farmers to do grants to available for farmers to do grants to available for farmers to do that wetting up to 30 cm and then up to that wetting up to 30 cm and then up to that wetting up to 30 cm and then up to the to the surface. So, it's an exciting the to the surface. So, it's an exciting the to the surface. So, it's an exciting time to be talking about this. Anyway, time to be talking about this. Anyway, time to be talking about this. Anyway, enough from me. Um, questions, please. enough from me. Um, questions, please. enough from me. Um, questions, please. We have one in your Do we have mics? I We have one in your Do we have mics? I We have one in your Do we have mics? I should have checked. Are we going to should have checked. Are we going to should have checked. Are we going to Brilliant Mike over there? Lady over Brilliant Mike over there? Lady over Brilliant Mike over there? Lady over there with the gray top. Do put the mic nearer to your mouth. Do put the mic nearer to your mouth. Do put the mic nearer to your mouth. Thanks. Hello. Hi. Thanks. Hello. Hi. Thanks. Hello. Hi. Um it's very interesting and rewetting Um it's very interesting and rewetting Um it's very interesting and rewetting petland it is important for car for petland it is important for car for petland it is important for car for sequestering carbon but I have a sequestering carbon but I have a sequestering carbon but I have a question regarding um nutrients and question regarding um nutrients and question regarding um nutrients and pollution because obviously this land pollution because obviously this land pollution because obviously this land pet when we were drained they were also pet when we were drained they were also pet when we were drained they were also stuck with the fertilizer and amendments stuck with the fertilizer and amendments stuck with the fertilizer and amendments and when you raise the water table you and when you raise the water table you and when you raise the water table you have that legacy of nutrients that can have that legacy of nutrients that can have that legacy of nutrients that can be lost through diffused pollution and be lost through diffused pollution and be lost through diffused pollution and also because it's all about carbon, also because it's all about carbon, also because it's all about carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus. You might have uh nitrogen, phosphorus. You might have uh nitrogen, phosphorus. You might have uh emission of greenhouse gases and I was emission of greenhouse gases and I was emission of greenhouse gases and I was just wondering how are you managing just wondering how are you managing just wondering how are you managing these risks if you have a plan in place these risks if you have a plan in place these risks if you have a plan in place in terms of how do you strip the in terms of how do you strip the in terms of how do you strip the nutrients before wetting it water table nutrients before wetting it water table nutrients before wetting it water table movement and stuff. Thank you. And are movement and stuff. Thank you. And are movement and stuff. Thank you. And are you working in in that area or your you working in in that area or your you working in in that area or your farmer or your research? I am a farmer or your research? I am a farmer or your research? I am a catchment scientist. I am British catchment scientist. I am British catchment scientist. I am British Society of Soul Science. Excellent. Society of Soul Science. Excellent. Society of Soul Science. Excellent. Thank you very much for your question. Thank you very much for your question. Thank you very much for your question. Would you like to answer that anybody? Would you like to answer that anybody? Would you like to answer that anybody? Yeah. Well, there there's several ways. Yeah. Well, there there's several ways. Yeah. Well, there there's several ways. I mean, one of the ways the fen is I mean, one of the ways the fen is I mean, one of the ways the fen is inherently fertile anyway naturally um inherently fertile anyway naturally um inherently fertile anyway naturally um because of its organic matter. So, you because of its organic matter. So, you because of its organic matter. So, you know, growing a crop with no nutrients know, growing a crop with no nutrients know, growing a crop with no nutrients before you go into these is one way of before you go into these is one way of before you go into these is one way of stripping it out. The other way is um stripping it out. The other way is um stripping it out. The other way is um actually converting them to something actually converting them to something actually converting them to something else. So for example, keeping your else. So for example, keeping your else. So for example, keeping your ground covered, okay, and growing ground covered, okay, and growing ground covered, okay, and growing something out of it and either something out of it and either something out of it and either converting it into maybe animal protein, converting it into maybe animal protein, converting it into maybe animal protein, so with some form of grazing, um I I so with some form of grazing, um I I so with some form of grazing, um I I think make making sure that and also you think make making sure that and also you think make making sure that and also you can you can mow and take away. So and can you can mow and take away. So and can you can mow and take away. So and these wetlands in order to create these wetlands in order to create these wetlands in order to create something that's been farmed for something that's been farmed for something that's been farmed for probably hundreds of years, it's going probably hundreds of years, it's going probably hundreds of years, it's going to be a long-term plan. It may take 30 to be a long-term plan. It may take 30 to be a long-term plan. It may take 30 years for to to strip all these years for to to strip all these years for to to strip all these nutrients out. But having a plan to get nutrients out. But having a plan to get nutrients out. But having a plan to get there, you know, first with a crop, there, you know, first with a crop, there, you know, first with a crop, secondly with with cover, bail it or secondly with with cover, bail it or secondly with with cover, bail it or convert it into something else using convert it into something else using convert it into something else using animals. Um I I mean that's a point I animals. Um I I mean that's a point I animals. Um I I mean that's a point I did want to make in general as well is did want to make in general as well is did want to make in general as well is that that that this is combining food and farming with this is combining food and farming with this is combining food and farming with environment. So, I I'm very keen on environment. So, I I'm very keen on environment. So, I I'm very keen on making sure that we get some form of making sure that we get some form of making sure that we get some form of produce off the land because the produce off the land because the produce off the land because the environmental benefits of livestock on environmental benefits of livestock on environmental benefits of livestock on there for whether it be um there for whether it be um there for whether it be um making it an environment for insects and making it an environment for insects and making it an environment for insects and all the other things that thrive or for all the other things that thrive or for all the other things that thrive or for wild birds and scrapes and stuff like wild birds and scrapes and stuff like wild birds and scrapes and stuff like they play a valuable part, but they also they play a valuable part, but they also they play a valuable part, but they also play a valuable part in our diet as play a valuable part in our diet as play a valuable part in our diet as well. And I think we we should remember well. And I think we we should remember well. And I think we we should remember that. David, you'll you'll agree with that. David, you'll you'll agree with that. David, you'll you'll agree with that. Excellent. He didn't pay me. that. Excellent. He didn't pay me. that. Excellent. He didn't pay me. David, then can I just go on? Yeah. So David, then can I just go on? Yeah. So David, then can I just go on? Yeah. So we found that um on on our our food crop we found that um on on our our food crop we found that um on on our our food crop trial in Rindle in Greater Manchester. trial in Rindle in Greater Manchester. trial in Rindle in Greater Manchester. So the first year um we wanted to try So the first year um we wanted to try So the first year um we wanted to try and compare as much as possible with and compare as much as possible with and compare as much as possible with sort of um business as usual you know sort of um business as usual you know sort of um business as usual you know how it would be on our site but the how it would be on our site but the how it would be on our site but the first year when we planted the celery we first year when we planted the celery we first year when we planted the celery we didn't add any we just you know we were didn't add any we just you know we were didn't add any we just you know we were looking at difference in the water we looking at difference in the water we looking at difference in the water we didn't want to add any extra nutrients didn't want to add any extra nutrients didn't want to add any extra nutrients so we didn't and that we were told that so we didn't and that we were told that so we didn't and that we were told that when we planted celery it would probably when we planted celery it would probably when we planted celery it would probably die within six weeks. It lasted and grew die within six weeks. It lasted and grew die within six weeks. It lasted and grew very well until at least two weeks very well until at least two weeks very well until at least two weeks before harvest because of it you amount before harvest because of it you amount before harvest because of it you amount of nutrients that were still left in the of nutrients that were still left in the of nutrients that were still left in the system. So although the ultimate weren't system. So although the ultimate weren't system. So although the ultimate weren't able to harvest the crop so that wasn't able to harvest the crop so that wasn't able to harvest the crop so that wasn't great but we it was able to demonstrate great but we it was able to demonstrate great but we it was able to demonstrate that actually yeah growing crops to that actually yeah growing crops to that actually yeah growing crops to strip the nutrients before moving to the strip the nutrients before moving to the strip the nutrients before moving to the next stage is one way of looking at it. next stage is one way of looking at it. next stage is one way of looking at it. Um so that's where and we are trying to Um so that's where and we are trying to Um so that's where and we are trying to monitor we are monitoring what the monitor we are monitoring what the monitor we are monitoring what the impact is of raising the water table impact is of raising the water table impact is of raising the water table what's happening with you know the what's happening with you know the what's happening with you know the different nutrients and different things different nutrients and different things different nutrients and different things in the system and the impact on sort of in the system and the impact on sort of in the system and the impact on sort of greenhouse gas emissions as well. So greenhouse gas emissions as well. So greenhouse gas emissions as well. So we're we're trying to gather that data we're we're trying to gather that data we're we're trying to gather that data in order to sort of feed into the next in order to sort of feed into the next in order to sort of feed into the next steps. Did you actually harvest the steps. Did you actually harvest the steps. Did you actually harvest the celery? So it wasn't then going back celery? So it wasn't then going back celery? So it wasn't then going back into the I no it wasn't it wasn't half I into the I no it wasn't it wasn't half I into the I no it wasn't it wasn't half I think some of it was some we did try and think some of it was some we did try and think some of it was some we did try and take to market but people were like oh take to market but people were like oh take to market but people were like oh no no um that is one problem with these no no um that is one problem with these no no um that is one problem with these systems you might get you might need systems you might get you might need systems you might get you might need customer education is part about yeah customer education is part about yeah customer education is part about yeah consumer um what people think a crop a consumer um what people think a crop a consumer um what people think a crop a product should look like and what people product should look like and what people product should look like and what people willing to accept and also thinking okay willing to accept and also thinking okay willing to accept and also thinking okay if it's not right for supermarket if it's not right for supermarket if it's not right for supermarket shelves is there something else the shelves is there something else the shelves is there something else the seller can use for but that's a seller can use for but that's a seller can use for but that's a different grade. So just trying to think different grade. So just trying to think different grade. So just trying to think about it differently. Yeah. Sorry. Next about it differently. Yeah. Sorry. Next about it differently. Yeah. Sorry. Next question. Um oh gentleman over there. question. Um oh gentleman over there. question. Um oh gentleman over there. Thank you. And then sorry we'll take Thank you. And then sorry we'll take Thank you. And then sorry we'll take next sorry next sorry next sorry thanks Chris Evans UKCH. Um hi it was a thanks Chris Evans UKCH. Um hi it was a thanks Chris Evans UKCH. Um hi it was a question about scalability. You question about scalability. You question about scalability. You mentioned scalability and how important mentioned scalability and how important mentioned scalability and how important that was and I would but then pretty and that was and I would but then pretty and that was and I would but then pretty and pretty much everything I think that's pretty much everything I think that's pretty much everything I think that's just been talked about is is reliant on just been talked about is is reliant on just been talked about is is reliant on some form of defa grant with a terrible some form of defa grant with a terrible some form of defa grant with a terrible acronym to yes how how what's the route acronym to yes how how what's the route acronym to yes how how what's the route to really being able to scale this to really being able to scale this to really being able to scale this because to scale it has to be commercial because to scale it has to be commercial because to scale it has to be commercial and how far off are you from the point and how far off are you from the point and how far off are you from the point where any of this could be done without where any of this could be done without where any of this could be done without a defra with a terrible accent yeah yeah a defra with a terrible accent yeah yeah a defra with a terrible accent yeah yeah good good question I mean maybe it's good good question I mean maybe it's good good question I mean maybe it's early days yet because a lot changed early days yet because a lot changed early days yet because a lot changed recently does anybody want recently does anybody want recently does anybody want I think that's really key. You're I think that's really key. You're I think that's really key. You're absolutely right. Like um we need to absolutely right. Like um we need to absolutely right. Like um we need to think about how to scale it up and I think about how to scale it up and I think about how to scale it up and I think it's difficult to say whether it think it's difficult to say whether it think it's difficult to say whether it will ever be um totally without sort of will ever be um totally without sort of will ever be um totally without sort of um you know grants through countryside um you know grants through countryside um you know grants through countryside stewardship options. I know there's some stewardship options. I know there's some stewardship options. I know there's some more public goods grants for I think I'm more public goods grants for I think I'm more public goods grants for I think I'm not I'm not a farmer but I would imagine not I'm not a farmer but I would imagine not I'm not a farmer but I would imagine ultimately they want to you want it to ultimately they want to you want it to ultimately they want to you want it to be another uh crop produced that you be another uh crop produced that you be another uh crop produced that you know is is as profitable as what else is know is is as profitable as what else is know is is as profitable as what else is is grow. I mean maybe Cameron on the is grow. I mean maybe Cameron on the is grow. I mean maybe Cameron on the farmers and panel want to take talk farmers and panel want to take talk farmers and panel want to take talk about that. Yeah. I I mean I'd just add about that. Yeah. I I mean I'd just add about that. Yeah. I I mean I'd just add to that I think the benefit you've got to that I think the benefit you've got to that I think the benefit you've got with a lot of landscape recovery with a lot of landscape recovery with a lot of landscape recovery projects you've got a lot of growers so projects you've got a lot of growers so projects you've got a lot of growers so you have got scalability. I think the you have got scalability. I think the you have got scalability. I think the other thing you've got is you've great other thing you've got is you've great other thing you've got is you've great got great provenence. So what might have got great provenence. So what might have got great provenence. So what might have started as an environmental project started as an environmental project started as an environmental project whether it be for watervol or lapwing or whether it be for watervol or lapwing or whether it be for watervol or lapwing or something else is there is a great something else is there is a great something else is there is a great marketing tool as well. So, you know, marketing tool as well. So, you know, marketing tool as well. So, you know, you we're we're pump priming it. No, no you we're we're pump priming it. No, no you we're we're pump priming it. No, no pun intended for the water pumps anyway, pun intended for the water pumps anyway, pun intended for the water pumps anyway, but you've actually got the ability to but you've actually got the ability to but you've actually got the ability to use the skill set of farmers or use the skill set of farmers or use the skill set of farmers or associated people within those business associated people within those business associated people within those business to market your produce off that land, to market your produce off that land, to market your produce off that land, not just environmental goods, but but not just environmental goods, but but not just environmental goods, but but food as well with local provenence. And food as well with local provenence. And food as well with local provenence. And that's with a scalability, that's with a scalability, that's with a scalability, then you've got even more chance of then you've got even more chance of then you've got even more chance of getting into, you know, local markets or getting into, you know, local markets or getting into, you know, local markets or even national markets. even national markets. even national markets. Sarah Jane or Karen did you want? Yeah, Sarah Jane or Karen did you want? Yeah, Sarah Jane or Karen did you want? Yeah, I would probably add we would like to I would probably add we would like to I would probably add we would like to scale this up as we've previously spoken scale this up as we've previously spoken scale this up as we've previously spoken about, but again that involved a defa about, but again that involved a defa about, but again that involved a defa grant for a start. Um I don't know from grant for a start. Um I don't know from grant for a start. Um I don't know from a rewetting perspective if I ever see us a rewetting perspective if I ever see us a rewetting perspective if I ever see us being able to make enough money off of a being able to make enough money off of a being able to make enough money off of a pollutulture crop without receiving some pollutulture crop without receiving some pollutulture crop without receiving some kind of countryside stewardship or kind of countryside stewardship or kind of countryside stewardship or something SFI grant, you know, to pay something SFI grant, you know, to pay something SFI grant, you know, to pay for that rewetting aspect. Um that for that rewetting aspect. Um that for that rewetting aspect. Um that remains to be seen, but yeah, there's remains to be seen, but yeah, there's remains to be seen, but yeah, there's definitely a willingness amongst farmers definitely a willingness amongst farmers definitely a willingness amongst farmers to scale up if it's possible. Um you to scale up if it's possible. Um you to scale up if it's possible. Um you know, we've had conversations this week know, we've had conversations this week know, we've had conversations this week with some local ones that really with some local ones that really with some local ones that really surprised me that I would never have surprised me that I would never have surprised me that I would never have expected to be interested in rewetting, expected to be interested in rewetting, expected to be interested in rewetting, but they love the area they live in. but they love the area they live in. but they love the area they live in. They're passionate about it. they can They're passionate about it. they can They're passionate about it. they can see that change is coming and they would see that change is coming and they would see that change is coming and they would rather consider rewetting their land, rather consider rewetting their land, rather consider rewetting their land, you know, to e either for biodiversity you know, to e either for biodiversity you know, to e either for biodiversity or for crop than see the fence go to or for crop than see the fence go to or for crop than see the fence go to what, you know, is alternatives which is what, you know, is alternatives which is what, you know, is alternatives which is possibly flooding. So, um yeah, there's possibly flooding. So, um yeah, there's possibly flooding. So, um yeah, there's definitely a willingness there. Um I I definitely a willingness there. Um I I definitely a willingness there. Um I I think again we need more re research and think again we need more re research and think again we need more re research and development before we can get to that development before we can get to that development before we can get to that point. Well, that's very positive to point. Well, that's very positive to point. Well, that's very positive to hear that Cameron. Uh yeah, I think hear that Cameron. Uh yeah, I think hear that Cameron. Uh yeah, I think there is scalability. Um certainly on there is scalability. Um certainly on there is scalability. Um certainly on our farm we're six hectares already. We our farm we're six hectares already. We our farm we're six hectares already. We can prove that works. Uh we we easily go can prove that works. Uh we we easily go can prove that works. Uh we we easily go up to more acres. Um we've already got up to more acres. Um we've already got up to more acres. Um we've already got the drone sewing and working on the the drone sewing and working on the the drone sewing and working on the harvester that can harvest them. Um harvester that can harvest them. Um harvester that can harvest them. Um ponder seem to be making making moves in ponder seem to be making making moves in ponder seem to be making making moves in the uh in the clothing world. So, uh, I the uh in the clothing world. So, uh, I the uh in the clothing world. So, uh, I think we we have, especially for Typher, think we we have, especially for Typher, think we we have, especially for Typher, we have almost a whole, um, product we have almost a whole, um, product we have almost a whole, um, product line, you know, from from start to line, you know, from from start to line, you know, from from start to finish. Um, that could potentially be finish. Um, that could potentially be finish. Um, that could potentially be done without any any funding. Um, and done without any any funding. Um, and done without any any funding. Um, and then you get the obviously the the then you get the obviously the the then you get the obviously the the funding, the stuff on top from SFI and funding, the stuff on top from SFI and funding, the stuff on top from SFI and all that is a bonus, but uh, in the long all that is a bonus, but uh, in the long all that is a bonus, but uh, in the long term, I can see it being just the same term, I can see it being just the same term, I can see it being just the same as a potato crop or or anything like as a potato crop or or anything like as a potato crop or or anything like that. and ponder can use the marketing that. and ponder can use the marketing that. and ponder can use the marketing as you describe to to really sell it as as you describe to to really sell it as as you describe to to really sell it as an alternative to plastic and an alternative to plastic and an alternative to plastic and microplastic creating um clothes. I microplastic creating um clothes. I microplastic creating um clothes. I think um there is a point as well that think um there is a point as well that think um there is a point as well that we kind of touched upon it earlier about we kind of touched upon it earlier about we kind of touched upon it earlier about consumers and I think so talking to some consumers and I think so talking to some consumers and I think so talking to some of the um other farmers we work with of the um other farmers we work with of the um other farmers we work with like it might be the big supermarkets like it might be the big supermarkets like it might be the big supermarkets are putting pressure on them to to be are putting pressure on them to to be are putting pressure on them to to be low carbon on their farms but they're low carbon on their farms but they're low carbon on their farms but they're not getting the the financial benefits not getting the the financial benefits not getting the the financial benefits of that. So, if we want to see these of that. So, if we want to see these of that. So, if we want to see these products on the shelves, cuz that we're products on the shelves, cuz that we're products on the shelves, cuz that we're talking a lot about Pluto culture, but talking a lot about Pluto culture, but talking a lot about Pluto culture, but there isn't actually anything on the on there isn't actually anything on the on there isn't actually anything on the on the shop shelves yet, and that's where the shop shelves yet, and that's where the shop shelves yet, and that's where we need to get to. Um, but I think the, we need to get to. Um, but I think the, we need to get to. Um, but I think the, you know, the the the buyers, the you know, the the the buyers, the you know, the the the buyers, the supermarkets have to also recognize what supermarkets have to also recognize what supermarkets have to also recognize what they're asking for and and, you know, they're asking for and and, you know, they're asking for and and, you know, financially reward that. And I think financially reward that. And I think financially reward that. And I think there needs to be education around there needs to be education around there needs to be education around consumers so they understand the impact consumers so they understand the impact consumers so they understand the impact of the things they're buying. Yeah, we of the things they're buying. Yeah, we of the things they're buying. Yeah, we had a question over here. Lady with a um had a question over here. Lady with a um had a question over here. Lady with a um red jacket. Thank you. red jacket. Thank you. red jacket. Thank you. How am I doing? How am I doing? How am I doing? Hi. Um my question was um we've had some Hi. Um my question was um we've had some Hi. Um my question was um we've had some um talk of benefits in terms of reducing um talk of benefits in terms of reducing um talk of benefits in terms of reducing greenhouse gases. How is that being greenhouse gases. How is that being greenhouse gases. How is that being measured and monitored? How are we measured and monitored? How are we measured and monitored? How are we measuring and monitoring? measuring and monitoring? measuring and monitoring? Um Um Um do you want to go first? Um yeah, I can do you want to go first? Um yeah, I can do you want to go first? Um yeah, I can go first. I might ask CH to jump in go first. I might ask CH to jump in go first. I might ask CH to jump in there for me too. So actually yesterday there for me too. So actually yesterday there for me too. So actually yesterday I was really excited to see that we had I was really excited to see that we had I was really excited to see that we had our first uh set of measurements taken our first uh set of measurements taken our first uh set of measurements taken on the Pluto trials. Um don't ask me how on the Pluto trials. Um don't ask me how on the Pluto trials. Um don't ask me how it works. I'm not a scientist. I just it works. I'm not a scientist. I just it works. I'm not a scientist. I just stand there looking rather beused at at stand there looking rather beused at at stand there looking rather beused at at the chambers and all the really cool the chambers and all the really cool the chambers and all the really cool equipment they use. Um but yeah, they've equipment they use. Um but yeah, they've equipment they use. Um but yeah, they've told me it's going to be monthly. We're told me it's going to be monthly. We're told me it's going to be monthly. We're having um these measurements taken. And having um these measurements taken. And having um these measurements taken. And they were looking at N2O, uh, CO2, they were looking at N2O, uh, CO2, they were looking at N2O, uh, CO2, methane, methane. Yeah. Um, so yeah, methane, methane. Yeah. Um, so yeah, methane, methane. Yeah. Um, so yeah, monthly. Um, is there anything else? monthly. Um, is there anything else? monthly. Um, is there anything else? Yeah, we have the flux tower. Um, in Yeah, we have the flux tower. Um, in Yeah, we have the flux tower. Um, in that's been there for a while. That's that's been there for a while. That's that's been there for a while. That's with the miscampus looking at the with the miscampus looking at the with the miscampus looking at the emissions from that, from the crop, from emissions from that, from the crop, from emissions from that, from the crop, from the ground and everything, the whole the the ground and everything, the whole the the ground and everything, the whole the whole thing. Yeah. whole thing. Yeah. whole thing. Yeah. Yeah. structure over the top of the we Yeah. structure over the top of the we Yeah. structure over the top of the we have um I suppose they might be similar have um I suppose they might be similar have um I suppose they might be similar what what we have it's like a like a a what what we have it's like a like a a what what we have it's like a like a a greenhouse gas column it's about it's greenhouse gas column it's about it's greenhouse gas column it's about it's like a dinner plate I suppose a smaller like a dinner plate I suppose a smaller like a dinner plate I suppose a smaller things and you could do like monthly things and you could do like monthly things and you could do like monthly sort of well what however often you want sort of well what however often you want sort of well what however often you want to measure the the the greenhouse gas to measure the the the greenhouse gas to measure the the the greenhouse gas emissions so it's yeah greenhouse gases emissions so it's yeah greenhouse gases emissions so it's yeah greenhouse gases so it's not just carbon it's the other so it's not just carbon it's the other so it's not just carbon it's the other other gases that you need to be looking other gases that you need to be looking other gases that you need to be looking at also the fluial emissions as well um at also the fluial emissions as well um at also the fluial emissions as well um and one of our sites we also dated the and one of our sites we also dated the and one of our sites we also dated the carbon that was coming off from the site carbon that was coming off from the site carbon that was coming off from the site So, it's kind of we're kind of thinking So, it's kind of we're kind of thinking So, it's kind of we're kind of thinking about it could be um almost a proxy for about it could be um almost a proxy for about it could be um almost a proxy for uh how well you're rehydrating the the uh how well you're rehydrating the the uh how well you're rehydrating the the soil. So, if the the idea is that um if soil. So, if the the idea is that um if soil. So, if the the idea is that um if you still got older emissions coming you still got older emissions coming you still got older emissions coming off, it means it's still dry out, still off, it means it's still dry out, still off, it means it's still dry out, still oxidizing lower down the peak profile. oxidizing lower down the peak profile. oxidizing lower down the peak profile. Or if there's any newer emissions, that Or if there's any newer emissions, that Or if there's any newer emissions, that means, you know, the water table's at a means, you know, the water table's at a means, you know, the water table's at a a better height. So, that's one way of a better height. So, that's one way of a better height. So, that's one way of also looking at what's happening, which also looking at what's happening, which also looking at what's happening, which I think is really cool. I think is really cool. I think is really cool. This this gives me an opportunity to say This this gives me an opportunity to say This this gives me an opportunity to say I agree with everything that Sarah says I agree with everything that Sarah says I agree with everything that Sarah says now and made some brilliant points. But now and made some brilliant points. But now and made some brilliant points. But I I would go to say that um we've got a I I would go to say that um we've got a I I would go to say that um we've got a few experts measuring greenhouse gases few experts measuring greenhouse gases few experts measuring greenhouse gases in the room here. I can see one or two in the room here. I can see one or two in the room here. I can see one or two of them with measuring nitrous oxide of them with measuring nitrous oxide of them with measuring nitrous oxide methane. Um the good thing about flux methane. Um the good thing about flux methane. Um the good thing about flux towers is that they stand out all the towers is that they stand out all the towers is that they stand out all the time and sometimes we probably don't go time and sometimes we probably don't go time and sometimes we probably don't go out in the rain when it's warm rainy out in the rain when it's warm rainy out in the rain when it's warm rainy because it's rainy and warm. But because it's rainy and warm. But because it's rainy and warm. But actually that's the real benefit. what actually that's the real benefit. what actually that's the real benefit. what happens to when things soils are wet and happens to when things soils are wet and happens to when things soils are wet and it's and it's raining on top of them it's and it's raining on top of them it's and it's raining on top of them what's it's releasing and it's not just what's it's releasing and it's not just what's it's releasing and it's not just from once you cover it and stop from once you cover it and stop from once you cover it and stop disturbing it that's the greenhouse gas disturbing it that's the greenhouse gas disturbing it that's the greenhouse gas savings you're making so the fact that savings you're making so the fact that savings you're making so the fact that you're not turning it over you're not you're not turning it over you're not you're not turning it over you're not growing crops on it that and but there's growing crops on it that and but there's growing crops on it that and but there's plenty of ways of me measuring it and plenty of ways of me measuring it and plenty of ways of me measuring it and monitoring it that sounds great like a monitoring it that sounds great like a monitoring it that sounds great like a flux capacitor from the back to the flux capacitor from the back to the flux capacitor from the back to the future I know I was going to say on um I future I know I was going to say on um I future I know I was going to say on um I don't know if you guys want to talk don't know if you guys want to talk don't know if you guys want to talk about this we've got those like Crazy about this we've got those like Crazy about this we've got those like Crazy ones and we're Marley that open and ones and we're Marley that open and ones and we're Marley that open and close. We unfortunately have to wrap up close. We unfortunately have to wrap up close. We unfortunately have to wrap up quite soon but maybe I'll go and talk to quite soon but maybe I'll go and talk to quite soon but maybe I'll go and talk to those guys over there. Go to the C. Oh those guys over there. Go to the C. Oh those guys over there. Go to the C. Oh yeah, go to the store. Brilliant. Um yeah, go to the store. Brilliant. Um yeah, go to the store. Brilliant. Um check check that out. The stall at the check check that out. The stall at the check check that out. The stall at the CIE. Is it CH? Yeah, CH. Yeah, sorry. CIE. Is it CH? Yeah, CH. Yeah, sorry. CIE. Is it CH? Yeah, CH. Yeah, sorry. That's really useful and I'm sorry we That's really useful and I'm sorry we That's really useful and I'm sorry we haven't got any more time for questions. haven't got any more time for questions. haven't got any more time for questions. People are going to have to leave to get People are going to have to leave to get People are going to have to leave to get to the next session. And thanks for for to the next session. And thanks for for to the next session. And thanks for for watching. Um I hope you enjoyed it. And watching. Um I hope you enjoyed it. And watching. Um I hope you enjoyed it. And as I said last year's we also talked as I said last year's we also talked as I said last year's we also talked about blue culture other aspects. So, about blue culture other aspects. So, about blue culture other aspects. So, um, thank you very much. Thank you very um, thank you very much. Thank you very um, thank you very much. Thank you very much to our panelists. Round of much to our panelists. Round of much to our panelists. Round of applause, please. applause, please. applause, please. [Applause] Thank you very much.
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Raising the water table at Langley Abbey to protect peat - Paludiculture in the Broads National Park

2026-05-29T14:07:51Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Raising the water table at Langley Abbey to protect peat - Paludiculture in the Broads National Park
| Producteur = Broads Authority
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_pPn17SAqb9I.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2025-05-23
| Durée = 8 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPn17SAqb9I
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL
}}

In this video we discover how scientists and farmers are teaming up in the Broads National Park to tackle climate change by rewetting peat soils. This video takes you to Langley Abbey, Chestnut Farm and Horsey Estate, where innovative monitoring tools and sustainable farming practices are helping to raise water tables, reduce carbon emissions, and restore vital ecosystems.

Learn how peat cameras, water table models, and wetland crops like reedmace are being used to monitor peat health and explore new eco-friendly materials. This project aims to inspire a future of climate-smart farming, carbon storage, and nature recovery in one of the UK’s most important wetlands.

For more information please see: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/looking-after/projects

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = [Music] [Music] [Music] The broads is a mosaic of clay and pete The broads is a mosaic of clay and pete The broads is a mosaic of clay and pete soils. They store a huge amount of soils. They store a huge amount of soils. They store a huge amount of carbon and they're a sponge. And when carbon and they're a sponge. And when carbon and they're a sponge. And when they're drained for agricultural they're drained for agricultural they're drained for agricultural development, all of that carbon tends to development, all of that carbon tends to development, all of that carbon tends to go up to the atmosphere and we don't go up to the atmosphere and we don't go up to the atmosphere and we don't have that storage capacity in the flood have that storage capacity in the flood have that storage capacity in the flood plane that's so important for the broads plane that's so important for the broads plane that's so important for the broads national park. national park. national park. [Music] Pete soils accumulate under water logged Pete soils accumulate under water logged Pete soils accumulate under water logged conditions in which there's no oxygen. conditions in which there's no oxygen. conditions in which there's no oxygen. When we drain them, we're introducing When we drain them, we're introducing When we drain them, we're introducing oxygen. It allows the bugs in the soil oxygen. It allows the bugs in the soil oxygen. It allows the bugs in the soil to eat the pete, convert it into carbon. to eat the pete, convert it into carbon. to eat the pete, convert it into carbon. So the deeper the water table is, the So the deeper the water table is, the So the deeper the water table is, the greater the greenhouse gas or carbon greater the greenhouse gas or carbon greater the greenhouse gas or carbon emissions. Pete generally accumulates about 1 mm Pete generally accumulates about 1 mm Pete generally accumulates about 1 mm per year. This is round about thousands per year. This is round about thousands per year. This is round about thousands of years of efforts. The pete at the of years of efforts. The pete at the of years of efforts. The pete at the top. So these layers are the one that top. So these layers are the one that top. So these layers are the one that are the decomposed one because they have are the decomposed one because they have are the decomposed one because they have been experiencing the drying cycles all been experiencing the drying cycles all been experiencing the drying cycles all through the years. But as we go down to through the years. But as we go down to through the years. But as we go down to the the the bottom, these layers have still their bottom, these layers have still their bottom, these layers have still their plant structure intact and they have plant structure intact and they have plant structure intact and they have been like preserving carbons over the been like preserving carbons over the been like preserving carbons over the years. And if they stay wet, they will years. And if they stay wet, they will years. And if they stay wet, they will continue doing so in the future as well. We're here at the Langley Abbey Estate We're here at the Langley Abbey Estate We're here at the Langley Abbey Estate and here with me today is Hana Yavani and here with me today is Hana Yavani and here with me today is Hana Yavani from UK CH. Hana, can you tell us a from UK CH. Hana, can you tell us a from UK CH. Hana, can you tell us a little bit about the peak monitoring little bit about the peak monitoring little bit about the peak monitoring equipment we've got here? Yes, Andrea. equipment we've got here? Yes, Andrea. equipment we've got here? Yes, Andrea. So, here we have two pit cameras and So, here we have two pit cameras and So, here we have two pit cameras and with the pit cameras, we are trying to with the pit cameras, we are trying to with the pit cameras, we are trying to monitor the pit surface elevation, how monitor the pit surface elevation, how monitor the pit surface elevation, how much it moves up and down, responding to much it moves up and down, responding to much it moves up and down, responding to changes in the hydraology. changes in the hydraology. changes in the hydraology. This is our pit camera that sits on top This is our pit camera that sits on top This is our pit camera that sits on top of a stool and the stool is anchored of a stool and the stool is anchored of a stool and the stool is anchored into the pit surface. It's anchored by into the pit surface. It's anchored by into the pit surface. It's anchored by 10 15 cm. We also have an antenna and 10 15 cm. We also have an antenna and 10 15 cm. We also have an antenna and the antenna allows the the system to the antenna allows the the system to the antenna allows the the system to send the data to a cloud service in send the data to a cloud service in send the data to a cloud service in where we can retrieve the data and make where we can retrieve the data and make where we can retrieve the data and make it publicly available to everyone. We it publicly available to everyone. We it publicly available to everyone. We have a special ruler that we we have have a special ruler that we we have have a special ruler that we we have designed ourself and it has aruka designed ourself and it has aruka designed ourself and it has aruka markers and those aruka markers are a markers and those aruka markers are a markers and those aruka markers are a special codes our camera can detect special codes our camera can detect special codes our camera can detect where they are. So we can calculate the where they are. So we can calculate the where they are. So we can calculate the distance in pixels and in millimeters distance in pixels and in millimeters distance in pixels and in millimeters from those markers to the from those markers to the from those markers to the surface. We can also measure water table surface. We can also measure water table surface. We can also measure water table depth using a pressure transucer sensor depth using a pressure transucer sensor depth using a pressure transucer sensor that sits inside this pometer. It's that sits inside this pometer. It's that sits inside this pometer. It's about 2 m into the soil. It will allow about 2 m into the soil. It will allow about 2 m into the soil. It will allow us to determine whether the pit is in us to determine whether the pit is in us to determine whether the pit is in good or in bad condition depending on good or in bad condition depending on good or in bad condition depending on where the water sits and also pit where the water sits and also pit where the water sits and also pit subsidance and pit motion is completely subsidance and pit motion is completely subsidance and pit motion is completely related with water table changes. So related with water table changes. So related with water table changes. So they basically track each other. With the flax tower we can other. With the flax tower we can other. With the flax tower we can measure the carbon balance of the measure the carbon balance of the measure the carbon balance of the ecosystem. So we can determine whether ecosystem. So we can determine whether ecosystem. So we can determine whether the soil is losing carbon or if we are the soil is losing carbon or if we are the soil is losing carbon or if we are storing carbon and is being accumulated storing carbon and is being accumulated storing carbon and is being accumulated into the soil. So Cranfield University have produced a So Cranfield University have produced a So Cranfield University have produced a water table model. So they've cast water table model. So they've cast water table model. So they've cast across the landscape and that will across the landscape and that will across the landscape and that will describe the amount of carbon emissions describe the amount of carbon emissions describe the amount of carbon emissions and it will also describe the amount of and it will also describe the amount of and it will also describe the amount of nature, the amount of water that we've nature, the amount of water that we've nature, the amount of water that we've got in ditches. How important will that got in ditches. How important will that got in ditches. How important will that be for the estate? Of course, you can be for the estate? Of course, you can be for the estate? Of course, you can look into any one of these ditches on a look into any one of these ditches on a look into any one of these ditches on a given day and see the height of the given day and see the height of the given day and see the height of the water table, but it doesn't always give water table, but it doesn't always give water table, but it doesn't always give an accurate reflection of the water an accurate reflection of the water an accurate reflection of the water table in the field itself. And so having table in the field itself. And so having table in the field itself. And so having that modeling, we have a much clearer that modeling, we have a much clearer that modeling, we have a much clearer understanding as to where we currently understanding as to where we currently understanding as to where we currently are, but also what we would need to are, but also what we would need to are, but also what we would need to implement to get where we want to be. So implement to get where we want to be. So implement to get where we want to be. So Hono, what do you hope this project Hono, what do you hope this project Hono, what do you hope this project might achieve? We are hoping to develop might achieve? We are hoping to develop might achieve? We are hoping to develop a monitoring, reporting, and a monitoring, reporting, and a monitoring, reporting, and verification tool. And this is something verification tool. And this is something verification tool. And this is something that could be used for carbon credits that could be used for carbon credits that could be used for carbon credits projects, restoration projects. But in projects, restoration projects. But in projects, restoration projects. But in the short term, we are hoping to develop the short term, we are hoping to develop the short term, we are hoping to develop a web app and then you can actually see a web app and then you can actually see a web app and then you can actually see what the site is doing, how much the pit what the site is doing, how much the pit what the site is doing, how much the pit has moved up and down, what's the water has moved up and down, what's the water has moved up and down, what's the water table deploy makers to to take decisions deploy makers to to take decisions deploy makers to to take decisions regarding pit condition and then help regarding pit condition and then help regarding pit condition and then help them develop policies according to the them develop policies according to the them develop policies according to the needs of nowadays. needs of nowadays. needs of nowadays. [Music] [Music] [Music] If farmers can raise their water tables, If farmers can raise their water tables, If farmers can raise their water tables, which in some pets in the country can be which in some pets in the country can be which in some pets in the country can be as deep as 2 m, then we reduce the as deep as 2 m, then we reduce the as deep as 2 m, then we reduce the greenhouse gas emissions very quickly greenhouse gas emissions very quickly greenhouse gas emissions very quickly from these soils. And with very high from these soils. And with very high from these soils. And with very high water tables, like we'd find under some water tables, like we'd find under some water tables, like we'd find under some of the classic broadland fence, we can of the classic broadland fence, we can of the classic broadland fence, we can have almost zero greenhouse gas have almost zero greenhouse gas have almost zero greenhouse gas emissions. We can switch off the pete emissions. We can switch off the pete emissions. We can switch off the pete soils as a source of greenhouse soils as a source of greenhouse soils as a source of greenhouse gases. gases. gases. [Music] Close to the coast in the Broads Close to the coast in the Broads Close to the coast in the Broads National Park is the Horsey estate. And National Park is the Horsey estate. And National Park is the Horsey estate. And here we're working in partnership to here we're working in partnership to here we're working in partnership to look at a pioneering wetland farming look at a pioneering wetland farming look at a pioneering wetland farming project about the future of farming in project about the future of farming in project about the future of farming in Britain's largest protected wetland. What motivated me to use this land What motivated me to use this land What motivated me to use this land really it was enthusiasm of the broads really it was enthusiasm of the broads really it was enthusiasm of the broads authority and it's a particularly good authority and it's a particularly good authority and it's a particularly good site for treating orange dirty water site for treating orange dirty water site for treating orange dirty water coming into the broads. So we've planted coming into the broads. So we've planted coming into the broads. So we've planted over 20,000 plug plants with the support over 20,000 plug plants with the support over 20,000 plug plants with the support of some fantastic local volunteers. of some fantastic local volunteers. of some fantastic local volunteers. We're taking water from the river and We're taking water from the river and We're taking water from the river and then we're flowing it through these five then we're flowing it through these five then we're flowing it through these five compartments like one of the ones behind compartments like one of the ones behind compartments like one of the ones behind me here. me here. me here. By opening the SLLE, the water flows By opening the SLLE, the water flows By opening the SLLE, the water flows through. You can see that it's full of through. You can see that it's full of through. You can see that it's full of ochre, which is this naturally occurring ochre, which is this naturally occurring ochre, which is this naturally occurring iron compound. We want to filter this iron compound. We want to filter this iron compound. We want to filter this out and we'll do that by flowing the out and we'll do that by flowing the out and we'll do that by flowing the water through this series of reed water through this series of reed water through this series of reed beds. We're going to be harvesting the beds. We're going to be harvesting the beds. We're going to be harvesting the reed mace here and then working with our reed mace here and then working with our reed mace here and then working with our partners, we're going to be turning that partners, we're going to be turning that partners, we're going to be turning that into construction materials such as into construction materials such as into construction materials such as insulation or pressed board. So, really insulation or pressed board. So, really insulation or pressed board. So, really looking at whether we can add value to looking at whether we can add value to looking at whether we can add value to this crop. We're working with scientists and policy We're working with scientists and policy We're working with scientists and policy makers to get polluted culture adopted makers to get polluted culture adopted makers to get polluted culture adopted into agricultural policy and create that into agricultural policy and create that into agricultural policy and create that network of expertise and knowledge that network of expertise and knowledge that network of expertise and knowledge that can be translated into other projects. can be translated into other projects. can be translated into other projects. So I'm really hopeful here that this So I'm really hopeful here that this So I'm really hopeful here that this site will show how you can make site will show how you can make site will show how you can make commercial reed or typher growing commercial reed or typher growing commercial reed or typher growing possible. which would be great. which would be great. which would be great. We're hoping that we can demonstrate how We're hoping that we can demonstrate how We're hoping that we can demonstrate how we can rewet these PT soils to reduce we can rewet these PT soils to reduce we can rewet these PT soils to reduce carbon emissions and then also how we carbon emissions and then also how we carbon emissions and then also how we can grow, read, and readmace for really can grow, read, and readmace for really can grow, read, and readmace for really innovative construction products. It's not an easy option, but it's a It's not an easy option, but it's a It's not an easy option, but it's a fantastic way of preserving the nature fantastic way of preserving the nature fantastic way of preserving the nature which evolves around Petland. The main thing I'm hoping this project The main thing I'm hoping this project The main thing I'm hoping this project will achieve will be a successful case will achieve will be a successful case will achieve will be a successful case study of how farmers can raise their study of how farmers can raise their study of how farmers can raise their water tables and achieve lower water tables and achieve lower water tables and achieve lower greenhouse gas emissions. greenhouse gas emissions. greenhouse gas emissions. So Henry, what do you hope will be So Henry, what do you hope will be So Henry, what do you hope will be achieved for this project? So our achieved for this project? So our achieved for this project? So our aspirations here at Lang A Laby is to aspirations here at Lang A Laby is to aspirations here at Lang A Laby is to see a Y Valley landscape indeed a wider see a Y Valley landscape indeed a wider see a Y Valley landscape indeed a wider broads landscape teameming with broads landscape teameming with broads landscape teameming with wildlife all whilst delivering those wildlife all whilst delivering those wildlife all whilst delivering those vital ecosystem services. But of course, vital ecosystem services. But of course, vital ecosystem services. But of course, it all starts and ends with how we it all starts and ends with how we it all starts and ends with how we manage our water table and how well we manage our water table and how well we manage our water table and how well we can conserve our pet soils. This is about rethinking our soils. This is about rethinking our soils. This is about rethinking our relationship with nature and finding new relationship with nature and finding new relationship with nature and finding new ways to work with the changing landscape ways to work with the changing landscape ways to work with the changing landscape of the broads.
}}

How to paludiculture?

2026-05-29T14:07:44Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = How to paludiculture?
| Producteur = Greifswald Moor Centrum
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_VIvPsrww74.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2023-05-11
| Durée = 4 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VIvPsrww74
| Intervenants 0 = Caitriona Brady Halmschlag
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL
}}

Paludiculture is not just a buzzword, it's an urgently needed sustainable concept of agriculture on formerly drained peatlands in oder to protect the climate. But how to transform conventional agriculture on drained peatland? On a 5-day study tour more than 50 people- farmers, landowners and policy makers - from various European countries visited GMC sites for paludiculture research and implementation

Sources

This film was prepared in the EUKI Project “Carbon capturing by Baltic farmers” https://www.succow-stiftung.de/en/peatland-climate/euki-carbon-capturing-by-baltic-peatland-farmers

Learn more

The paludiculture study tour guide:

https://www.succow-stiftung.de/fileadmin/Ablage/Dokumente/EUKI_Kohlenstoffarming_Baltikum/Paludiculture_Study_Tour_Guide_2022_A4_final.pdf

Animated information film on Peatlands, Climate and Paludiculture:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXuRiLtH5ds&t=3s

Credits

Speaker Caitriona Brady Halmschlag

Footage & film design

Lucas Treise – BioFilm 2023 – https://www.bio-film.org/

Supplementary footage:

Hans von Sonntag – www.vonsonntag.com

Swantje Furtak – www.swantjefurtak.de

Greifswald Mire Centre – www.greifswaldmoor.de

Normunds Stivrins – www.epicentrs.lv

Disclaimer

This film was prepared in the project “Carbon capturing by Baltic peatland farmers” which is financed by the European Climate Initiative (EUKI). EUKI is a project financing instrument by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. It is the overarching goal of the EUKI to foster climate cooperation within the European Union in order to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. It does so through strengthening cross-border dialogue and cooperation as well as exchange of knowledge and experience. The authors are fully responsible for the content of this film, the European Climate Initiative (EUKI) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action have no liability.

Cofunding

Umwelt Stiftung Michael Otto / toMOORow initiative – www.tomoorow.org

Wetlands international – European Association / EU LIFE – https://europe.wetlands.org/

Disclaimer

Cofunded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor CINEA can be held responsible for them.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = [Music] [Music] [Music] polluti culture the wet agriculture on polluti culture the wet agriculture on polluti culture the wet agriculture on re-wetted peatland provides renewable re-wetted peatland provides renewable re-wetted peatland provides renewable biomass for climate-friendly products biomass for climate-friendly products biomass for climate-friendly products while preserving peatlands and the while preserving peatlands and the while preserving peatlands and the climate it's both Innovative and it climate it's both Innovative and it climate it's both Innovative and it supports needed Transformations however supports needed Transformations however supports needed Transformations however so far only Pioneers can do it and it so far only Pioneers can do it and it so far only Pioneers can do it and it lacks consistent agricultural policies lacks consistent agricultural policies lacks consistent agricultural policies advisory services and established Market advisory services and established Market advisory services and established Market structures so is polluti culture a real structures so is polluti culture a real structures so is polluti culture a real option farmers and entrepreneurs are option farmers and entrepreneurs are option farmers and entrepreneurs are skeptical we invited 50 International skeptical we invited 50 International skeptical we invited 50 International stakeholders from 10 different EU stakeholders from 10 different EU stakeholders from 10 different EU countries to Germany from farmer to countries to Germany from farmer to countries to Germany from farmer to decision maker all are learning from decision maker all are learning from decision maker all are learning from experts and from one another in Ireland experts and from one another in Ireland experts and from one another in Ireland we can actually reduce a huge amount of we can actually reduce a huge amount of we can actually reduce a huge amount of the Agricultural emissions by peatland the Agricultural emissions by peatland the Agricultural emissions by peatland restoration that's very much the same restoration that's very much the same restoration that's very much the same across the EU in Poland that the across the EU in Poland that the across the EU in Poland that the interest of local businesses is to go interest of local businesses is to go interest of local businesses is to go carbon neutral so our challenge is to carbon neutral so our challenge is to carbon neutral so our challenge is to restore and to manage more sustainably restore and to manage more sustainably restore and to manage more sustainably the peatlands and actually in Estonia the peatlands and actually in Estonia the peatlands and actually in Estonia the peat mine the peat mine the peat mine although we export most of the mine peat although we export most of the mine peat although we export most of the mine peat has also very big share in our has also very big share in our has also very big share in our greenhouse gas emissions lithium greenhouse gas emissions lithium greenhouse gas emissions lithium operators should put more efforts to operators should put more efforts to operators should put more efforts to spread information about farming and spread information about farming and spread information about farming and pitlands educating people about their pitlands educating people about their pitlands educating people about their peatlands what is the impact to climate peatlands what is the impact to climate peatlands what is the impact to climate change we need a good pilot to show that change we need a good pilot to show that change we need a good pilot to show that it is really working we have four it is really working we have four it is really working we have four Petland pilots in Germany they are Petland pilots in Germany they are Petland pilots in Germany they are funded by the Federal Ministry of the funded by the Federal Ministry of the funded by the Federal Ministry of the environment which gives about 45 million environment which gives about 45 million environment which gives about 45 million euro over the next 10 years for politic euro over the next 10 years for politic euro over the next 10 years for politic culture but they show that they are culture but they show that they are culture but they show that they are actually products you can use and which actually products you can use and which actually products you can use and which exist and which can be also utilized exist and which can be also utilized exist and which can be also utilized this is very warm welcome here in christwell at very warm welcome here in christwell at very warm welcome here in christwell at our study trip on peatland restoration our study trip on peatland restoration our study trip on peatland restoration and paluti culture of course we also and paluti culture of course we also and paluti culture of course we also want to get into a discussion into want to get into a discussion into want to get into a discussion into exchange we said there are no emissions exchange we said there are no emissions exchange we said there are no emissions out of dry peatlands by 2040 and that out of dry peatlands by 2040 and that out of dry peatlands by 2040 and that means that we need to restore about 10 means that we need to restore about 10 means that we need to restore about 10 000 hectares per year which is massive 000 hectares per year which is massive 000 hectares per year which is massive our task is to provide a framework that our task is to provide a framework that our task is to provide a framework that others can do the job properly another others can do the job properly another others can do the job properly another objective is to take the risk there are objective is to take the risk there are objective is to take the risk there are farmers enable Pokemon who are willing farmers enable Pokemon who are willing farmers enable Pokemon who are willing to make the pigments but the scooter is to make the pigments but the scooter is to make the pigments but the scooter is Generations foreign foreign [Music] I came to Germany basically to I came to Germany basically to I came to Germany basically to understand more of what is the best understand more of what is the best understand more of what is the best practice we need an official way of practice we need an official way of practice we need an official way of calculating the carbon footprint as well calculating the carbon footprint as well calculating the carbon footprint as well as carbon offset and ecological services as carbon offset and ecological services as carbon offset and ecological services that Wetlands can provide we see here in that Wetlands can provide we see here in that Wetlands can provide we see here in Germany that more Futures it's a good Germany that more Futures it's a good Germany that more Futures it's a good standard well scientifically background standard well scientifically background standard well scientifically background with the principles the standard in with the principles the standard in with the principles the standard in place the potential of keeping land wet place the potential of keeping land wet place the potential of keeping land wet reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and indeed earning a good income for Farmers indeed earning a good income for Farmers indeed earning a good income for Farmers is I think a win-win-win proposition is I think a win-win-win proposition is I think a win-win-win proposition this is the only way that there is a this is the only way that there is a this is the only way that there is a balance between the interests of balance between the interests of balance between the interests of landowners the climate challenges and landowners the climate challenges and landowners the climate challenges and that we can preserve and or even that we can preserve and or even that we can preserve and or even accumulate more carbon into the soils accumulate more carbon into the soils accumulate more carbon into the soils makes a lot of challenges and we have to makes a lot of challenges and we have to makes a lot of challenges and we have to overcome them actually a lot is needed overcome them actually a lot is needed overcome them actually a lot is needed to develop a carbon project or a to develop a carbon project or a to develop a carbon project or a politiculture project just go further politiculture project just go further politiculture project just go further don't stop and please share your don't stop and please share your don't stop and please share your experience with other Farmers approaches experience with other Farmers approaches experience with other Farmers approaches and Pioneers for polluti culture are and Pioneers for polluti culture are and Pioneers for polluti culture are already out there don't hesitate to get already out there don't hesitate to get already out there don't hesitate to get into contact and start foreign foreign foreign [Music]
}}

Peatlands, Climate and Paludiculture

2026-05-29T14:07:38Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Peatlands, Climate and Paludiculture
| Producteur = Greifswald Moor Centrum
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_uXuRiLtH5ds.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2023-01-03
| Durée = 7 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXuRiLtH5ds
| Intervenants 0 = Christopher Gray
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL
}}

What's a peatland? Why are peatlands dry but should be rewetted? Why is this important to us and the global climate? How can we protect and simultanously use wet peatlands - especially in the Batlics? All answered and beautifully animated in this film.

Sources

This film was prepared in the EUKI Project “Carbon capturing by Baltic farmers”

https://www.succow-stiftung.de/en/peatland-climate/euki-carbon-capturing-by-baltic-peatland-farmers

Information on impact of peatland drainage and conventional agricultural peatland use, rewetting and paludiculture - Greifswald Mire Centre (GMC) authors collective - www.greifswaldmoor.de

Data of GHG emission from drained peatland under agricultural use in the EU and the Baltic countries: National Inventory Report (NIR) 2019, GMC 2019

https://www.greifswaldmoor.de/files/dokumente/Infopapiere_Briefings/202111_Opportunities-for-paludiculture-in-CAP-1.pdf

Credits

Graphics by Sarah Heuzeroth - www.sarah-heuzeroth.de

Speaker Christopher Gray

Animation and film design by BioFilm - www.bio-film.org

Photos:

A.Haberl - Michael Succow Foundation, partner in the Greifswald Mire Centre (GMC)

R.Hurding - ZELFO® Technology GmbH

C.Lühr - Leibniz-Institut für Agrartechnik und Bioökonomie e.V. (ATB)

S.Manzel - Greifswald Mire Centre (GMC)

A.Nordt - Greifswald Mire Centre (GMC)

P.Schroeder - www.lensescape.org

J.Schulz - www.PALUDiMED.eu

Disclaimer

This film was prepared in the frame of the project “Carbon capturing by Baltic peatland farmers” which is financed by the European Climate Initiative (EUKI). EUKI is a project financing instrument by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. It is the overarching goal of the EUKI to foster climate cooperation within the European Union in order to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. It does so through strengthening cross-border dialogue and cooperation as well as exchange of knowledge and experience. The authors are fully responsible for the content of this film, the European Climate Initiative (EUKI) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action have no liability.

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = what is a Maya Amaya is a wetland in what is a Maya Amaya is a wetland in what is a Maya Amaya is a wetland in which the dead plant matter of the Maya which the dead plant matter of the Maya which the dead plant matter of the Maya vegetation cannot be decomposed entirely vegetation cannot be decomposed entirely vegetation cannot be decomposed entirely by microorganisms due to the waterlogged by microorganisms due to the waterlogged by microorganisms due to the waterlogged site conditions the plants consist of site conditions the plants consist of site conditions the plants consist of carbon which is then sequestered into carbon which is then sequestered into carbon which is then sequestered into the Maya deposits we call this dead the Maya deposits we call this dead the Maya deposits we call this dead organic matter peat and over time the organic matter peat and over time the organic matter peat and over time the Maya vegetation develops into peatland Maya vegetation develops into peatland Maya vegetation develops into peatland patrons in the temperate climate region patrons in the temperate climate region patrons in the temperate climate region thus grow 0.5 to 1 millimeter in height thus grow 0.5 to 1 millimeter in height thus grow 0.5 to 1 millimeter in height per year all over the world peatlands per year all over the world peatlands per year all over the world peatlands have developed undisturbed over have developed undisturbed over have developed undisturbed over centuries to Millennia and have removed centuries to Millennia and have removed centuries to Millennia and have removed large amounts of carbon from the global large amounts of carbon from the global large amounts of carbon from the global carbon cycle what is the current state carbon cycle what is the current state carbon cycle what is the current state of peatlands worldwide globally of peatlands worldwide globally of peatlands worldwide globally peedlands cover only three percent of peedlands cover only three percent of peedlands cover only three percent of the land surface but they store twice as the land surface but they store twice as the land surface but they store twice as much carbon in their peat as all the much carbon in their peat as all the much carbon in their peat as all the forests on Earth which cover 30 of the forests on Earth which cover 30 of the forests on Earth which cover 30 of the land surface worldwide only 15 percent land surface worldwide only 15 percent land surface worldwide only 15 percent of peatlands have been drained which is of peatlands have been drained which is of peatlands have been drained which is about 0.4 percent of the global land about 0.4 percent of the global land about 0.4 percent of the global land surface surface surface however this today causes five percent however this today causes five percent however this today causes five percent of all man-made greenhouse gas emissions of all man-made greenhouse gas emissions of all man-made greenhouse gas emissions the majority of the world's drained the majority of the world's drained the majority of the world's drained peatlands are used for agriculture peatlands are used for agriculture peatlands are used for agriculture conventional agriculture drains conventional agriculture drains conventional agriculture drains peatlands and manages water levels by peatlands and manages water levels by peatlands and manages water levels by digging ditches and installing drainage digging ditches and installing drainage digging ditches and installing drainage infrastructure infrastructure infrastructure drained peatlands are usually used in drained peatlands are usually used in drained peatlands are usually used in agriculture for the production of hay or agriculture for the production of hay or agriculture for the production of hay or grazing of animals often in intensive grazing of animals often in intensive grazing of animals often in intensive regimes with two to three Cuts per year regimes with two to three Cuts per year regimes with two to three Cuts per year and high fertilizer application and high fertilizer application and high fertilizer application peatlands are also converted to arable peatlands are also converted to arable peatlands are also converted to arable land for further uses such as Maize land for further uses such as Maize land for further uses such as Maize cultivation for animal feed production cultivation for animal feed production cultivation for animal feed production or biogas production or biogas production or biogas production drainage causes the water levels in the drainage causes the water levels in the drainage causes the water levels in the peatland to fall and the once peatland to fall and the once peatland to fall and the once water-logged peat is exposed to oxygen water-logged peat is exposed to oxygen water-logged peat is exposed to oxygen allowing aerobic microorganisms to allowing aerobic microorganisms to allowing aerobic microorganisms to convert the organic substance stored in convert the organic substance stored in convert the organic substance stored in the peat the peat the peat thus the sequestered carbon is released thus the sequestered carbon is released thus the sequestered carbon is released to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide under temperate climate one hectare of under temperate climate one hectare of under temperate climate one hectare of heavily drained peatland used as heavily drained peatland used as heavily drained peatland used as grassland releases about 30 tonne CO2 grassland releases about 30 tonne CO2 grassland releases about 30 tonne CO2 equivalent greenhouse gas emissions per equivalent greenhouse gas emissions per equivalent greenhouse gas emissions per year year year conventionally managed arable land on conventionally managed arable land on conventionally managed arable land on peatland releases about 40 tons of CO2 peatland releases about 40 tons of CO2 peatland releases about 40 tons of CO2 equivalent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent greenhouse gas emissions annually annually annually on average this corresponds to 150 000 on average this corresponds to 150 000 on average this corresponds to 150 000 kilometers driven in a medium-sized car kilometers driven in a medium-sized car kilometers driven in a medium-sized car literally speaking that's almost four literally speaking that's almost four literally speaking that's almost four circumnavigations of the World circumnavigations of the World circumnavigations of the World as a result the peatland loses one to as a result the peatland loses one to as a result the peatland loses one to two centimeters of surface level per two centimeters of surface level per two centimeters of surface level per year and it has to be drained deeper and year and it has to be drained deeper and year and it has to be drained deeper and deeper in order to continue conventional deeper in order to continue conventional deeper in order to continue conventional use use use in the long run conventional agriculture in the long run conventional agriculture in the long run conventional agriculture on peatlands destroys its own basis for on peatlands destroys its own basis for on peatlands destroys its own basis for production production production the soil and the operating costs for the soil and the operating costs for the soil and the operating costs for maintaining drainage and counteracting maintaining drainage and counteracting maintaining drainage and counteracting the deterioration of soil properties the deterioration of soil properties the deterioration of soil properties increase continuously this has already increase continuously this has already increase continuously this has already led to the abandonment of farming in led to the abandonment of farming in led to the abandonment of farming in many places many places many places in the agricultural sector peatlands in the agricultural sector peatlands in the agricultural sector peatlands occupy only a small fraction of the occupy only a small fraction of the occupy only a small fraction of the total production area however they total production area however they total production area however they produce disproportionately high amounts produce disproportionately high amounts produce disproportionately high amounts of greenhouse gas emissions of greenhouse gas emissions of greenhouse gas emissions by focusing climate action on a by focusing climate action on a by focusing climate action on a relatively small area significant relatively small area significant relatively small area significant climate change mitigation targets could climate change mitigation targets could climate change mitigation targets could be achieved in the agricultural sector be achieved in the agricultural sector be achieved in the agricultural sector that are in line with the Paris that are in line with the Paris that are in line with the Paris agreement agreement agreement how can petlands contribute to climate how can petlands contribute to climate how can petlands contribute to climate protection protection protection if feedlands are re-wetted properly they if feedlands are re-wetted properly they if feedlands are re-wetted properly they remain permanently wet and there will be remain permanently wet and there will be remain permanently wet and there will be no more CO2 emissions no more CO2 emissions no more CO2 emissions the average water level must be kept the average water level must be kept the average water level must be kept just below the surface throughout the just below the surface throughout the just below the surface throughout the whole course of the Year I.E at 10 whole course of the Year I.E at 10 whole course of the Year I.E at 10 centimeters to 20 centimeters below the centimeters to 20 centimeters below the centimeters to 20 centimeters below the surface surface surface the ideal water level is actually the ideal water level is actually the ideal water level is actually surface level surface level surface level this helps to protect the climate by this helps to protect the climate by this helps to protect the climate by avoiding emissions the ecosystem avoiding emissions the ecosystem avoiding emissions the ecosystem regenerates and new habitats and Wetland regenerates and new habitats and Wetland regenerates and new habitats and Wetland biodiversity develop in the re-wetted biodiversity develop in the re-wetted biodiversity develop in the re-wetted landscape in addition water availability landscape in addition water availability landscape in addition water availability improves on landscape level as the water improves on landscape level as the water improves on landscape level as the water is held back in the restored peatland is held back in the restored peatland is held back in the restored peatland sites sites sites furthermore the water quality in furthermore the water quality in furthermore the water quality in Connected water bodies increases because Connected water bodies increases because Connected water bodies increases because the discharge of nutrients caused by the discharge of nutrients caused by the discharge of nutrients caused by peat decomposition is stopped and the peat decomposition is stopped and the peat decomposition is stopped and the plants growing in the peatlands filter plants growing in the peatlands filter plants growing in the peatlands filter the water as it flows through the site the water as it flows through the site the water as it flows through the site is agricultural production possible on is agricultural production possible on is agricultural production possible on re-wetted peatlands re-wetted peatlands re-wetted peatlands the agricultural use of wet or re-wetted the agricultural use of wet or re-wetted the agricultural use of wet or re-wetted peat soils is called paludi culture the peat soils is called paludi culture the peat soils is called paludi culture the term is derived from the Latin Palace term is derived from the Latin Palace term is derived from the Latin Palace swamp and culture meaning the swamp and culture meaning the swamp and culture meaning the cultivation cultivation cultivation in conventional agriculture on piedland in conventional agriculture on piedland in conventional agriculture on piedland the site is adapted to the required the site is adapted to the required the site is adapted to the required production production production conventional agriculture drains and conventional agriculture drains and conventional agriculture drains and interferes with the soil resulting in interferes with the soil resulting in interferes with the soil resulting in very high emissions in contrast polluti very high emissions in contrast polluti very high emissions in contrast polluti culture adapts production schemes to the culture adapts production schemes to the culture adapts production schemes to the wet site conditions thus significantly wet site conditions thus significantly wet site conditions thus significantly lower or even zero emissions are lower or even zero emissions are lower or even zero emissions are achieved achieved achieved polluti culture is an Innovative wet polluti culture is an Innovative wet polluti culture is an Innovative wet agriculture on peatland that conserves agriculture on peatland that conserves agriculture on peatland that conserves soil and protects the climate it follows soil and protects the climate it follows soil and protects the climate it follows three principles farming on wet three principles farming on wet three principles farming on wet including re-wetted peatland soils including re-wetted peatland soils including re-wetted peatland soils working with sight adapted species soil working with sight adapted species soil working with sight adapted species soil conserving harvesting of above ground conserving harvesting of above ground conserving harvesting of above ground biomass biomass biomass polluti culture is climate protection it polluti culture is climate protection it polluti culture is climate protection it enables the production of renewable enables the production of renewable enables the production of renewable biomasses for climate neutral products biomasses for climate neutral products biomasses for climate neutral products and value chains these products can be and value chains these products can be and value chains these products can be used to replace conventional products used to replace conventional products used to replace conventional products based on fossil raw materials based on fossil raw materials based on fossil raw materials so-called climate negative products can so-called climate negative products can so-called climate negative products can even be produced if they can find the even be produced if they can find the even be produced if they can find the carbon permanently and replace products carbon permanently and replace products carbon permanently and replace products manufactured from fossil resources manufactured from fossil resources manufactured from fossil resources examples are durable fiber and examples are durable fiber and examples are durable fiber and construction materials polluti culture construction materials polluti culture construction materials polluti culture can also provide renewable biomassers can also provide renewable biomassers can also provide renewable biomassers for climate-friendly energy production for climate-friendly energy production for climate-friendly energy production animal feed food medicine and substrate animal feed food medicine and substrate animal feed food medicine and substrate raw materials for Horticultural raw materials for Horticultural raw materials for Horticultural substrates substrates substrates patrons must be wet and agriculture can patrons must be wet and agriculture can patrons must be wet and agriculture can be wet
}}

Paludiculture and Wetter Farming - An Opportunity for Agriculture?

2026-05-29T14:07:34Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Paludiculture and Wetter Farming - An Opportunity for Agriculture?
| Producteur = Meet the Farmers Podcast
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_SGv7JMfr81Q.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2025-05-05
| Durée = 29 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGv7JMfr81Q
| Intervenants 0 = Jenny Bennion
| Intervenants 1 = Sarah Johnson
| Intervenants 2 = Ben Eagle
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL
}}

Today on the show we’re talking about paludiculture. You might not have heard the term before, but paludiculture is the practice of wetland farming—essentially growing crops on rewetted lands, usually peatlands. Paludiculture is emerging as a way to restore peatlands, reduce carbon emissions, and explore the creation of new income opportunities for farmers and landowners.

Peatlands play a critical role in ecosystems. They store vast amounts of carbon, support biodiversity, and regulate water levels. However, draining peatlands releases huge amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. The big question is: can we farm in a way that both protects and restores these landscapes?

Jenny Bennion and Sarah Johnson from Lancashire Wildlife Trust believe that paludiculture could provide at least some of the answers.

For more info on paludiculture visit - www.paludiculture.org.uk (https://www.paludiculture.org.uk/)

Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency.

Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here. (https://www.ruralpodmedia.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/RuralPod-Media-Podcast-Disclaimer-for-Meet-the-Farmers-Podcast-and-Rural-Business-Focus-Podcast.pdf)

About Ben and RuralPod Media

Ben Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media (https://www.ruralpodmedia.co.uk/) , a specialist rural podcast production agency. He is also a freelance rural affairs and agricultural journalist. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk (https://www.ruralpodmedia.co.uk/) or benjamineagle.co.uk (https://benjamineagle.co.uk/)

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{{Transcription
| transcription = You're listening to the Meet the Farmers You're listening to the Meet the Farmers You're listening to the Meet the Farmers podcast with me, your host, Ben Eagle. podcast with me, your host, Ben Eagle. podcast with me, your host, Ben Eagle. Please remember to subscribe to the show Please remember to subscribe to the show Please remember to subscribe to the show wherever you are listening. [Music] Hello everyone and welcome to episode Hello everyone and welcome to episode Hello everyone and welcome to episode 291 of the Meet the Farmers podcast. I 291 of the Meet the Farmers podcast. I 291 of the Meet the Farmers podcast. I am your host Ben Eagle and today on the am your host Ben Eagle and today on the am your host Ben Eagle and today on the show we're talking about pollutulture. show we're talking about pollutulture. show we're talking about pollutulture. You might not have heard of it uh but You might not have heard of it uh but You might not have heard of it uh but polluture is the practice of wetland polluture is the practice of wetland polluture is the practice of wetland farming. um essentially growing crops on farming. um essentially growing crops on farming. um essentially growing crops on rewetted lands, usually pete lands. And rewetted lands, usually pete lands. And rewetted lands, usually pete lands. And polluttor culture is emerging as a way polluttor culture is emerging as a way polluttor culture is emerging as a way to restore petlands and reduce carbon to restore petlands and reduce carbon to restore petlands and reduce carbon emissions. But it's also exploring the emissions. But it's also exploring the emissions. But it's also exploring the creation of new income opportunities for creation of new income opportunities for creation of new income opportunities for farmers and land owners who face wet farmers and land owners who face wet farmers and land owners who face wet conditions. Petlands, as many of you conditions. Petlands, as many of you conditions. Petlands, as many of you know, play a critical role in our know, play a critical role in our know, play a critical role in our natural environment. They store vast natural environment. They store vast natural environment. They store vast amounts of carbon, support biodiversity, amounts of carbon, support biodiversity, amounts of carbon, support biodiversity, and regulate water levels. However, and regulate water levels. However, and regulate water levels. However, draining petlands releases huge amounts draining petlands releases huge amounts draining petlands releases huge amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. But the of carbon into the atmosphere. But the of carbon into the atmosphere. But the big question is, can we farm in a way big question is, can we farm in a way big question is, can we farm in a way that both protects and restores these that both protects and restores these that both protects and restores these landscapes? And could polluture provide landscapes? And could polluture provide landscapes? And could polluture provide some of the answers? To help us some of the answers? To help us some of the answers? To help us understand more, I'm joined today by two understand more, I'm joined today by two understand more, I'm joined today by two guests from the Wildlife Trust for guests from the Wildlife Trust for guests from the Wildlife Trust for Lancasher Manchester and North Muryside. Lancasher Manchester and North Muryside. Lancasher Manchester and North Muryside. Jenny Benyan, who is senior Jenny Benyan, who is senior Jenny Benyan, who is senior communications officer, and Sarah communications officer, and Sarah communications officer, and Sarah Johnson who is head of Petland Landscape Johnson who is head of Petland Landscape Johnson who is head of Petland Landscape Recovery. Sarah and Jenny, welcome to Recovery. Sarah and Jenny, welcome to Recovery. Sarah and Jenny, welcome to the show. Can you uh can you introduce the show. Can you uh can you introduce the show. Can you uh can you introduce yourselves, please? Yeah, so hi. Uh my yourselves, please? Yeah, so hi. Uh my yourselves, please? Yeah, so hi. Uh my name is Jenny. As Ben said, I'm one of name is Jenny. As Ben said, I'm one of name is Jenny. As Ben said, I'm one of the communication officers at the the communication officers at the the communication officers at the Wildlife Trust for Lancaster, Wildlife Trust for Lancaster, Wildlife Trust for Lancaster, Manchester, and North Mury side. Um, one Manchester, and North Mury side. Um, one Manchester, and North Mury side. Um, one of the the things that I do as part of of the the things that I do as part of of the the things that I do as part of my day-to-day role is trying to kind of my day-to-day role is trying to kind of my day-to-day role is trying to kind of tell people about the work we're doing tell people about the work we're doing tell people about the work we're doing around Polludiculture or sometimes we around Polludiculture or sometimes we around Polludiculture or sometimes we call it wet farming. Um, just kind of call it wet farming. Um, just kind of call it wet farming. Um, just kind of getting that story out there, um, getting that story out there, um, getting that story out there, um, answering people's questions and things answering people's questions and things answering people's questions and things like that. Fantastic. Sarah. Yeah. Hi, like that. Fantastic. Sarah. Yeah. Hi, like that. Fantastic. Sarah. Yeah. Hi, my name is Sarah Johnson and I'm a head my name is Sarah Johnson and I'm a head my name is Sarah Johnson and I'm a head of pet nature recovery for Lanasher of pet nature recovery for Lanasher of pet nature recovery for Lanasher Wildlife Trust. So I've been involved Wildlife Trust. So I've been involved Wildlife Trust. So I've been involved with Peters for a long time but Laner with Peters for a long time but Laner with Peters for a long time but Laner Wildlife Trust for about 5 years and we Wildlife Trust for about 5 years and we Wildlife Trust for about 5 years and we do sort of off the what I call do sort of off the what I call do sort of off the what I call conventional pet and restoration but conventional pet and restoration but conventional pet and restoration but increasingly we're working with land increasingly we're working with land increasingly we're working with land managers and farmers across sort of the managers and farmers across sort of the managers and farmers across sort of the northwest region looking at different northwest region looking at different northwest region looking at different ways we can manage agricultural pet ways we can manage agricultural pet ways we can manage agricultural pet soils in a way that is good for the soils in a way that is good for the soils in a way that is good for the environment but also can still provide environment but also can still provide environment but also can still provide that income for farmers in the area as that income for farmers in the area as that income for farmers in the area as well. Let's start with the basics. What well. Let's start with the basics. What well. Let's start with the basics. What exactly is polluted culture? Um, and why exactly is polluted culture? Um, and why exactly is polluted culture? Um, and why is it important? is it important? is it important? Okay. So, I I guess I I'll actually Okay. So, I I guess I I'll actually Okay. So, I I guess I I'll actually start with why it's important. So, for start with why it's important. So, for start with why it's important. So, for example, now our region in sort of example, now our region in sort of example, now our region in sort of northwest England, the patch we cover, northwest England, the patch we cover, northwest England, the patch we cover, Lancasher, Greater Manion, North Mury Lancasher, Greater Manion, North Mury Lancasher, Greater Manion, North Mury side. They was historically large areas side. They was historically large areas side. They was historically large areas of what we call lo and raise bog um or of what we call lo and raise bog um or of what we call lo and raise bog um or fen pet pee soils as well. Um, and these fen pet pee soils as well. Um, and these fen pet pee soils as well. Um, and these pixels are amazing in terms of the pixels are amazing in terms of the pixels are amazing in terms of the amount of carbon they can store and amount of carbon they can store and amount of carbon they can store and sequester in the longer term when sequester in the longer term when sequester in the longer term when they're sort of water logged natural they're sort of water logged natural they're sort of water logged natural conditions and also homes for amazing conditions and also homes for amazing conditions and also homes for amazing wildlife as well. But over the last few wildlife as well. But over the last few wildlife as well. But over the last few hundred years, a lot of the pets have hundred years, a lot of the pets have hundred years, a lot of the pets have been been been drained and converted for agriculture drained and converted for agriculture drained and converted for agriculture grade one agricultural land in our area grade one agricultural land in our area grade one agricultural land in our area and also drained for, you know, housing and also drained for, you know, housing and also drained for, you know, housing developments and all sorts of things. developments and all sorts of things. developments and all sorts of things. But a large amount of the the peak souls But a large amount of the the peak souls But a large amount of the the peak souls in our area are now agricultural peaks. in our area are now agricultural peaks. in our area are now agricultural peaks. There's really been this balance that we There's really been this balance that we There's really been this balance that we need to strike between still providing need to strike between still providing need to strike between still providing the incomes for the farmers and the the incomes for the farmers and the the incomes for the farmers and the farming communities in our area, but farming communities in our area, but farming communities in our area, but also realizing that those peak souls also realizing that those peak souls also realizing that those peak souls when they're drained and drying out are when they're drained and drying out are when they're drained and drying out are not playing the vital role they could not playing the vital role they could not playing the vital role they could play for the environment and for climate play for the environment and for climate play for the environment and for climate mitigation, etc. So that's why they're mitigation, etc. So that's why they're mitigation, etc. So that's why they're so important. They're amazing places. so important. They're amazing places. so important. They're amazing places. Yeah, we need to find a way that they Yeah, we need to find a way that they Yeah, we need to find a way that they can be great places for en environment, can be great places for en environment, can be great places for en environment, wildlife and people as well. And that's wildlife and people as well. And that's wildlife and people as well. And that's where pluto culture comes in because as where pluto culture comes in because as where pluto culture comes in because as you mentioned your introduction, pluto you mentioned your introduction, pluto you mentioned your introduction, pluto culture, we like to call it wetter culture, we like to call it wetter culture, we like to call it wetter farming. I think that's more says what farming. I think that's more says what farming. I think that's more says what it is on the tin so to speak than it is on the tin so to speak than it is on the tin so to speak than plutoulture which is quite a yeah plutoulture which is quite a yeah plutoulture which is quite a yeah unknown term. So that involves basically unknown term. So that involves basically unknown term. So that involves basically raising the water table sufficiently to raising the water table sufficiently to raising the water table sufficiently to then grow crops that thrive in sort of then grow crops that thrive in sort of then grow crops that thrive in sort of more water yeah wetter conditions. It more water yeah wetter conditions. It more water yeah wetter conditions. It maintains that agriculture in the area maintains that agriculture in the area maintains that agriculture in the area but grows crops that can thrive in those but grows crops that can thrive in those but grows crops that can thrive in those wetter conditions. I mean a lot of our wetter conditions. I mean a lot of our wetter conditions. I mean a lot of our listeners um they may drive if they're listeners um they may drive if they're listeners um they may drive if they're farmers they may drive through the fence farmers they may drive through the fence farmers they may drive through the fence say um look at this incredible gra soil say um look at this incredible gra soil say um look at this incredible gra soil and look on it with great jealousy. Um and look on it with great jealousy. Um and look on it with great jealousy. Um but actually uh as you're saying here a but actually uh as you're saying here a but actually uh as you're saying here a a a that landscape hasn't been like that a a that landscape hasn't been like that a a that landscape hasn't been like that forever which I think is always forever which I think is always forever which I think is always important to remember actually sort of important to remember actually sort of important to remember actually sort of seeing landscapes in context but also is seeing landscapes in context but also is seeing landscapes in context but also is this about sort of looking to the long this about sort of looking to the long this about sort of looking to the long term is this about sort of imagining term is this about sort of imagining term is this about sort of imagining that actually this isn't going to be the that actually this isn't going to be the that actually this isn't going to be the case forever. So how do we find some case forever. So how do we find some case forever. So how do we find some sort of middle ground? sort of middle ground? sort of middle ground? Yeah, absolutely. Because um in the Yeah, absolutely. Because um in the Yeah, absolutely. Because um in the reality is that when you sort of drain reality is that when you sort of drain reality is that when you sort of drain and dry out the peak, that peak soils and dry out the peak, that peak soils and dry out the peak, that peak soils soil is is oxidizing and it's being soil is is oxidizing and it's being soil is is oxidizing and it's being blown away when it's drying out. And so blown away when it's drying out. And so blown away when it's drying out. And so in terms of the long-term in terms of the long-term in terms of the long-term sustainability, the conventional farming sustainability, the conventional farming sustainability, the conventional farming that we see, you know, the drainage that we see, you know, the drainage that we see, you know, the drainage based farm that we see in our in based farm that we see in our in based farm that we see in our in agriculture peaks or areas isn't going agriculture peaks or areas isn't going agriculture peaks or areas isn't going to be sustainable into the long term. to be sustainable into the long term. to be sustainable into the long term. just with with climate change, we're just with with climate change, we're just with with climate change, we're seeing more erratic weather patterns or seeing more erratic weather patterns or seeing more erratic weather patterns or prolonged drought periods and intense prolonged drought periods and intense prolonged drought periods and intense rainfall. And the farmers that we have rainfall. And the farmers that we have rainfall. And the farmers that we have been working with and talking to in our been working with and talking to in our been working with and talking to in our area, I think all of them know that at area, I think all of them know that at area, I think all of them know that at least, you know, an area on their farm least, you know, an area on their farm least, you know, an area on their farm where they're finding increasingly where they're finding increasingly where they're finding increasingly difficult to manage profitably. Maybe difficult to manage profitably. Maybe difficult to manage profitably. Maybe they can get on to sew crops, but then they can get on to sew crops, but then they can get on to sew crops, but then they can't get on to harvest them later they can't get on to harvest them later they can't get on to harvest them later on because the ground's too wet or on because the ground's too wet or on because the ground's too wet or they're simply not able to graze it any they're simply not able to graze it any they're simply not able to graze it any longer for a large part of the year longer for a large part of the year longer for a large part of the year because it's it's too wet. So those because it's it's too wet. So those because it's it's too wet. So those areas, they're not currently profitable areas, they're not currently profitable areas, they're not currently profitable and they're looking forward with climate and they're looking forward with climate and they're looking forward with climate change. We need to think about how we change. We need to think about how we change. We need to think about how we can farm areas, some areas differently can farm areas, some areas differently can farm areas, some areas differently into the future so that farming can into the future so that farming can into the future so that farming can continue, but also we can use these continue, but also we can use these continue, but also we can use these areas to help with climate mitigation. areas to help with climate mitigation. areas to help with climate mitigation. So Jenny, can you give us some examples So Jenny, can you give us some examples So Jenny, can you give us some examples maybe of of some of these areas um that maybe of of some of these areas um that maybe of of some of these areas um that Sarah's been alluding to? Absolutely. So Sarah's been alluding to? Absolutely. So Sarah's been alluding to? Absolutely. So we're basically looking at a lot of our we're basically looking at a lot of our we're basically looking at a lot of our kind of kind of kind of lowerlying areas. Currently a lot of the lowerlying areas. Currently a lot of the lowerlying areas. Currently a lot of the work is around looking at lowland pete work is around looking at lowland pete work is around looking at lowland pete soils um specifically with that kind of soils um specifically with that kind of soils um specifically with that kind of environmental message in mind. environmental message in mind. environmental message in mind. Currently 3% of overall UK greenhouse Currently 3% of overall UK greenhouse Currently 3% of overall UK greenhouse gas emissions come just from drained gas emissions come just from drained gas emissions come just from drained land agricultural pete which land agricultural pete which land agricultural pete which proportionally is just wildly out of proportionally is just wildly out of proportionally is just wildly out of proportion for the the actual amount of proportion for the the actual amount of proportion for the the actual amount of land that that covers. So, we're talking land that that covers. So, we're talking land that that covers. So, we're talking about these areas that have been about these areas that have been about these areas that have been historically drained, but that actually historically drained, but that actually historically drained, but that actually we're not going to be able to carry on we're not going to be able to carry on we're not going to be able to carry on farming all of these in that on that farming all of these in that on that farming all of these in that on that kind of drainage based um model that kind of drainage based um model that kind of drainage based um model that we're using at the moment. Um, with some we're using at the moment. Um, with some we're using at the moment. Um, with some of the areas that we're working with of the areas that we're working with of the areas that we're working with sort of up in the Northwest, we've sort of up in the Northwest, we've sort of up in the Northwest, we've worked out that there's probably no more worked out that there's probably no more worked out that there's probably no more than 80 100 years left under current than 80 100 years left under current than 80 100 years left under current drainage based agriculture until drainage based agriculture until drainage based agriculture until actually all of that pete soil has gone actually all of that pete soil has gone actually all of that pete soil has gone and then you're down to the sort of and then you're down to the sort of and then you're down to the sort of glacial clay underneath which is glacial clay underneath which is glacial clay underneath which is certainly not going to be grade one certainly not going to be grade one certainly not going to be grade one agricultural land. Um so it is about agricultural land. Um so it is about agricultural land. Um so it is about looking to find a way that we can looking to find a way that we can looking to find a way that we can protect this soil and we can protect the protect this soil and we can protect the protect this soil and we can protect the carbon that's in it but we can also carbon that's in it but we can also carbon that's in it but we can also protect that land so that it can be protect that land so that it can be protect that land so that it can be farmed into the future. Um so it's farmed into the future. Um so it's farmed into the future. Um so it's definitely tricky and you know we're not definitely tricky and you know we're not definitely tricky and you know we're not saying that this is going to be a saying that this is going to be a saying that this is going to be a onesizefits all but it's about finding a onesizefits all but it's about finding a onesizefits all but it's about finding a way that it's going to work for the way that it's going to work for the way that it's going to work for the environment and for farmers at the same environment and for farmers at the same environment and for farmers at the same time. time. time. It's worth noting as well actually that It's worth noting as well actually that It's worth noting as well actually that um polluted culture or wet farming is um polluted culture or wet farming is um polluted culture or wet farming is not actually totally new. So if think not actually totally new. So if think not actually totally new. So if think about um the north broads there's been about um the north broads there's been about um the north broads there's been practices going back generations where practices going back generations where practices going back generations where you know there's traditions of managing you know there's traditions of managing you know there's traditions of managing and harvesting reed to provide that for and harvesting reed to provide that for and harvesting reed to provide that for housing. So that is wetter farming. Um housing. So that is wetter farming. Um housing. So that is wetter farming. Um so we're not in it's not a totally new so we're not in it's not a totally new so we're not in it's not a totally new concept uh that we're talking about concept uh that we're talking about concept uh that we're talking about here. It is something that has been done here. It is something that has been done here. It is something that has been done in the past and and does take place in the past and and does take place in the past and and does take place elsewhere in other countries as well. H elsewhere in other countries as well. H elsewhere in other countries as well. H so you mentioned thatching as one um one so you mentioned thatching as one um one so you mentioned thatching as one um one example in terms of cropping in terms of example in terms of cropping in terms of example in terms of cropping in terms of outputs that we're thinking of when outputs that we're thinking of when outputs that we're thinking of when we're thinking of uh cropping these we're thinking of uh cropping these we're thinking of uh cropping these these areas of land. What are the these areas of land. What are the these areas of land. What are the options? What are some of the options? What are some of the options? What are some of the innovations that people are actually innovations that people are actually innovations that people are actually doing? So yeah, there's quite a few doing? So yeah, there's quite a few doing? So yeah, there's quite a few different options actually that are that different options actually that are that different options actually that are that are out there and that are being triled are out there and that are being triled are out there and that are being triled at the moment. So up here on our patch, at the moment. So up here on our patch, at the moment. So up here on our patch, we've got one trial where we're looking we've got one trial where we're looking we've got one trial where we're looking at growing conventional food crops. So a at growing conventional food crops. So a at growing conventional food crops. So a lot of the land Pete in our region is lot of the land Pete in our region is lot of the land Pete in our region is farmed for salads. Um so we're kind of farmed for salads. Um so we're kind of farmed for salads. Um so we're kind of trying to to mirror that but at a higher trying to to mirror that but at a higher trying to to mirror that but at a higher water table to see actually does it water table to see actually does it water table to see actually does it work? Is there a difference in yield? work? Is there a difference in yield? work? Is there a difference in yield? What do we need to do differently? That What do we need to do differently? That What do we need to do differently? That kind of thing. Um, so we've got a trial kind of thing. Um, so we've got a trial kind of thing. Um, so we've got a trial and we've grown celery, we've got and we've grown celery, we've got and we've grown celery, we've got blueberries growing, we've grown blueberries growing, we've grown blueberries growing, we've grown lettuce. We're going to look at some lettuce. We're going to look at some lettuce. We're going to look at some other crops um as well this year, things other crops um as well this year, things other crops um as well this year, things like maybe rhubarb. And then there's like maybe rhubarb. And then there's like maybe rhubarb. And then there's also a lot of work looking into kind of also a lot of work looking into kind of also a lot of work looking into kind of more like novel crops. Um, one of which more like novel crops. Um, one of which more like novel crops. Um, one of which is spagnum moss. So spagnum moss is is spagnum moss. So spagnum moss is is spagnum moss. So spagnum moss is essentially what makes Pete like it's essentially what makes Pete like it's essentially what makes Pete like it's the sort of keystone species of the sort of keystone species of the sort of keystone species of petlands but there is a market for petlands but there is a market for petlands but there is a market for growing spagnum as a commercial crop and growing spagnum as a commercial crop and growing spagnum as a commercial crop and basically what you do is you harvest basically what you do is you harvest basically what you do is you harvest that it gets dried out and it gets used that it gets dried out and it gets used that it gets dried out and it gets used to create growing media or compost. So to create growing media or compost. So to create growing media or compost. So obviously with the shift away from using obviously with the shift away from using obviously with the shift away from using Pete in bagged compost in horiculture Pete in bagged compost in horiculture Pete in bagged compost in horiculture and things like that um we're going to and things like that um we're going to and things like that um we're going to need to replace that with something and need to replace that with something and need to replace that with something and spagnum essentially is just Pete before spagnum essentially is just Pete before spagnum essentially is just Pete before it's become Pete. It has all those it's become Pete. It has all those it's become Pete. It has all those really great water holding qualities. Um really great water holding qualities. Um really great water holding qualities. Um so it makes fantastic Pete free growing so it makes fantastic Pete free growing so it makes fantastic Pete free growing media. So there's definitely um quite a media. So there's definitely um quite a media. So there's definitely um quite a potentially quite big market there. Um, potentially quite big market there. Um, potentially quite big market there. Um, another crop that we're triing is um, another crop that we're triing is um, another crop that we're triing is um, Tyifer or Bull Rushes as we call them Tyifer or Bull Rushes as we call them Tyifer or Bull Rushes as we call them sort of locally and there's a couple of sort of locally and there's a couple of sort of locally and there's a couple of uses for those. So, we're working with a uses for those. So, we're working with a uses for those. So, we're working with a company called Ponder who take, you company called Ponder who take, you company called Ponder who take, you know, the fluffy seed heads and they know, the fluffy seed heads and they know, the fluffy seed heads and they have developed a process that turns that have developed a process that turns that have developed a process that turns that into padding for uh, filling for padded into padding for uh, filling for padded into padding for uh, filling for padded jackets. So instead of using either jackets. So instead of using either jackets. So instead of using either polyester or goose down, you can use polyester or goose down, you can use polyester or goose down, you can use bull rush, which is pretty cool. And bull rush, which is pretty cool. And bull rush, which is pretty cool. And then also there's a lot of work going on then also there's a lot of work going on then also there's a lot of work going on with the um the stalks and the leaves of with the um the stalks and the leaves of with the um the stalks and the leaves of the bull rushes. They can create a the bull rushes. They can create a the bull rushes. They can create a really good fiber board to be used in really good fiber board to be used in really good fiber board to be used in the building industry. Uh we're also the building industry. Uh we're also the building industry. Uh we're also working with a research group who are working with a research group who are working with a research group who are looking at turning them into packaging looking at turning them into packaging looking at turning them into packaging for like takeaway food. And there's for like takeaway food. And there's for like takeaway food. And there's quite a lot of sort of other more like quite a lot of sort of other more like quite a lot of sort of other more like novel crops out there that could be novel crops out there that could be novel crops out there that could be used. So maybe, you know, we're looking used. So maybe, you know, we're looking used. So maybe, you know, we're looking at some kind of kind of combination of at some kind of kind of combination of at some kind of kind of combination of some food crops perhaps, some novel some food crops perhaps, some novel some food crops perhaps, some novel crops. Um, and just seeing, you know, crops. Um, and just seeing, you know, crops. Um, and just seeing, you know, what's going to be best for different what's going to be best for different what's going to be best for different areas of land, what's going to, you areas of land, what's going to, you areas of land, what's going to, you know, work out financially. Who ever know, work out financially. Who ever know, work out financially. Who ever knew that you could do so much with a knew that you could do so much with a knew that you could do so much with a bull rush? I can almost hear any any bull rush? I can almost hear any any bull rush? I can almost hear any any farmers out there who who have some on farmers out there who who have some on farmers out there who who have some on their land thinking, "Ah, there's money their land thinking, "Ah, there's money their land thinking, "Ah, there's money making potential." Sarah, anything to making potential." Sarah, anything to making potential." Sarah, anything to add? Well, no. I mean, you you talk add? Well, no. I mean, you you talk add? Well, no. I mean, you you talk about that, you know, farmers seeing about that, you know, farmers seeing about that, you know, farmers seeing that they they might have bull rush tuer that they they might have bull rush tuer that they they might have bull rush tuer growing on their land. It is, if you growing on their land. It is, if you growing on their land. It is, if you think about these pen areas, they're think about these pen areas, they're think about these pen areas, they're going to be things that grow there going to be things that grow there going to be things that grow there already. So, it's not necessarily think already. So, it's not necessarily think already. So, it's not necessarily think about the no crop. So yeah, bull rush t about the no crop. So yeah, bull rush t about the no crop. So yeah, bull rush t is a great one that we see it growing in is a great one that we see it growing in is a great one that we see it growing in ditches and in areas of farmed anyway. ditches and in areas of farmed anyway. ditches and in areas of farmed anyway. So why not think about how you can So why not think about how you can So why not think about how you can utilize that and use it to generate utilize that and use it to generate utilize that and use it to generate income. One of the areas that excites me income. One of the areas that excites me income. One of the areas that excites me quite a lot other than the the typher quite a lot other than the the typher quite a lot other than the the typher and the spagnum is the looking at what and the spagnum is the looking at what and the spagnum is the looking at what food can be grown as a high water table. food can be grown as a high water table. food can be grown as a high water table. What conventional food crops that we What conventional food crops that we What conventional food crops that we already grow on a drainage based way can already grow on a drainage based way can already grow on a drainage based way can be grown at a high water level. So I be grown at a high water level. So I be grown at a high water level. So I think because there's a lot of concerns think because there's a lot of concerns think because there's a lot of concerns or there have been concerns when we talk or there have been concerns when we talk or there have been concerns when we talk to farms that what about food security. to farms that what about food security. to farms that what about food security. So we can't take you know a lot of the So we can't take you know a lot of the So we can't take you know a lot of the agriculture pets which be used for food agriculture pets which be used for food agriculture pets which be used for food production out of food production. So we production out of food production. So we production out of food production. So we need to look at how we can make that need to look at how we can make that need to look at how we can make that work still. What are the differences in work still. What are the differences in work still. What are the differences in in yields if you grow you know in yields if you grow you know in yields if you grow you know conventional food crops at high water conventional food crops at high water conventional food crops at high water table. So this year we're going to be table. So this year we're going to be table. So this year we're going to be looking at as Jenny mentioned we've got looking at as Jenny mentioned we've got looking at as Jenny mentioned we've got blueberries. Um we're going to be blueberries. Um we're going to be blueberries. Um we're going to be looking at Chinese leaf this year and looking at Chinese leaf this year and looking at Chinese leaf this year and radishes. And yeah, we're looking at uh radishes. And yeah, we're looking at uh radishes. And yeah, we're looking at uh also crops that we grown over winter to also crops that we grown over winter to also crops that we grown over winter to reduce the amount of bare pet. So we'll reduce the amount of bare pet. So we'll reduce the amount of bare pet. So we'll probably looking at things like kale as probably looking at things like kale as probably looking at things like kale as well. So looking at those crops that you well. So looking at those crops that you well. So looking at those crops that you know already end up in our on our know already end up in our on our know already end up in our on our supermarket shelves as opposed to yeah supermarket shelves as opposed to yeah supermarket shelves as opposed to yeah normal crops. But it's going to be about normal crops. But it's going to be about normal crops. But it's going to be about looking at the landscape and looking at looking at the landscape and looking at looking at the landscape and looking at what grows best where. And it's not what grows best where. And it's not what grows best where. And it's not taking you everything out of taking you everything out of taking you everything out of conventional production and putting into conventional production and putting into conventional production and putting into wet farming. is looking at a mosaic of a wet farming. is looking at a mosaic of a wet farming. is looking at a mosaic of a landscape scale and adding another tool landscape scale and adding another tool landscape scale and adding another tool to the farm toolbox I would say. So is to the farm toolbox I would say. So is to the farm toolbox I would say. So is there much collaboration with people there much collaboration with people there much collaboration with people working together on this? Languual trust working together on this? Languual trust working together on this? Languual trust as a whole we we're always very keen and as a whole we we're always very keen and as a whole we we're always very keen and see the need to work in partnership with see the need to work in partnership with see the need to work in partnership with people across the landscapes where we people across the landscapes where we people across the landscapes where we work because I think that's where work because I think that's where work because I think that's where success comes when you bring different success comes when you bring different success comes when you bring different people together to find out what the the people together to find out what the the people together to find out what the the challenges are and find solutions challenges are and find solutions challenges are and find solutions together. So in terms of um the together. So in terms of um the together. So in terms of um the environment and climate change and the environment and climate change and the environment and climate change and the role that the pizzas can play. So it's role that the pizzas can play. So it's role that the pizzas can play. So it's by talking to the farmers and the by talking to the farmers and the by talking to the farmers and the farming groups and other land managers farming groups and other land managers farming groups and other land managers in the area and finding out okay how are in the area and finding out okay how are in the area and finding out okay how are you managing your land currently? Where you managing your land currently? Where you managing your land currently? Where are the issues? What the challenge are the issues? What the challenge are the issues? What the challenge you're facing and how can we work you're facing and how can we work you're facing and how can we work together to find solutions. That's together to find solutions. That's together to find solutions. That's always been our approach. So from our always been our approach. So from our always been our approach. So from our first project where we had funding first project where we had funding first project where we had funding through um it's actually EU funding to through um it's actually EU funding to through um it's actually EU funding to set up our what we call a carbon farm. set up our what we call a carbon farm. set up our what we call a carbon farm. That was our first sort of step into That was our first sort of step into That was our first sort of step into wetter farming world. Um and that was wetter farming world. Um and that was wetter farming world. Um and that was growing a essentially a permanent cover growing a essentially a permanent cover growing a essentially a permanent cover crop of spagnum mosses. So we rewet this crop of spagnum mosses. So we rewet this crop of spagnum mosses. So we rewet this area of land that we purchased and then area of land that we purchased and then area of land that we purchased and then used that to demonstrate what was used that to demonstrate what was used that to demonstrate what was possible to grow there and what the possible to grow there and what the possible to grow there and what the economics would be the business model economics would be the business model economics would be the business model for it. And we use that to sort of um for it. And we use that to sort of um for it. And we use that to sort of um engage different groups of people, bring engage different groups of people, bring engage different groups of people, bring on um people from the NFU and other on um people from the NFU and other on um people from the NFU and other farmers in the area to say what do you farmers in the area to say what do you farmers in the area to say what do you think about this? Could it work? What think about this? Could it work? What think about this? Could it work? What could we do differently? What would your could we do differently? What would your could we do differently? What would your thoughts on this be? You know, what are thoughts on this be? You know, what are thoughts on this be? You know, what are the issues? And is by having those the issues? And is by having those the issues? And is by having those conversations, we've managed to then go conversations, we've managed to then go conversations, we've managed to then go on to to try other approaches to wetter on to to try other approaches to wetter on to to try other approaches to wetter farming. For example, you know, growing farming. For example, you know, growing farming. For example, you know, growing conventional food crops, looking at conventional food crops, looking at conventional food crops, looking at typher. And so I think that's it's typher. And so I think that's it's typher. And so I think that's it's really important because by doing this really important because by doing this really important because by doing this we can look at how different ways a we can look at how different ways a we can look at how different ways a managed land can help tackle um managed land can help tackle um managed land can help tackle um environmental challenges we have and the environmental challenges we have and the environmental challenges we have and the climate change challenges we have but climate change challenges we have but climate change challenges we have but also at the same time looking at the also at the same time looking at the also at the same time looking at the farming challenges there are there for farming challenges there are there for farming challenges there are there for example areas on farmland where they're example areas on farmland where they're example areas on farmland where they're too wet to manage productively and make too wet to manage productively and make too wet to manage productively and make a profit from and what can we do a profit from and what can we do a profit from and what can we do differently in those areas for example differently in those areas for example differently in those areas for example that can yeah tick all the boxes for that can yeah tick all the boxes for that can yeah tick all the boxes for envir environment, climate and farming. envir environment, climate and farming. envir environment, climate and farming. So, I think collaboration is really key So, I think collaboration is really key So, I think collaboration is really key and we've been really we've made some and we've been really we've made some and we've been really we've made some really good partnerships with farmers in really good partnerships with farmers in really good partnerships with farmers in the area through that. Um and so some of the area through that. Um and so some of the area through that. Um and so some of the trials we're working with the the trials we're working with the the trials we're working with the farmers and they are the ones who are farmers and they are the ones who are farmers and they are the ones who are managing the trial sites and do you know managing the trial sites and do you know managing the trial sites and do you know have done the the groundwork to set up have done the the groundwork to set up have done the the groundwork to set up the air the trial area and have sewn the the air the trial area and have sewn the the air the trial area and have sewn the crops and are managing it and manage the crops and are managing it and manage the crops and are managing it and manage the water levels and we'll be doing the water levels and we'll be doing the water levels and we'll be doing the harvesting and they're working with us harvesting and they're working with us harvesting and they're working with us and they are we've set a scrap heat and they are we've set a scrap heat and they are we've set a scrap heat challenge to um create um adapt existing challenge to um create um adapt existing challenge to um create um adapt existing machinery to be able to harvest crops on machinery to be able to harvest crops on machinery to be able to harvest crops on these sort of high water table areas. these sort of high water table areas. these sort of high water table areas. So, it's it's a really collaborative So, it's it's a really collaborative So, it's it's a really collaborative approach that we're going for because at approach that we're going for because at approach that we're going for because at the end of the day, we're Lancaster the end of the day, we're Lancaster the end of the day, we're Lancaster Wildlife Trust. We're not farmers. So, Wildlife Trust. We're not farmers. So, Wildlife Trust. We're not farmers. So, if we want to make this work, it has to if we want to make this work, it has to if we want to make this work, it has to work from a financial point of view for work from a financial point of view for work from a financial point of view for the farmers and we need expertise from the farmers and we need expertise from the farmers and we need expertise from all different areas. Jenny, yeah, I all different areas. Jenny, yeah, I all different areas. Jenny, yeah, I mean, basically, we couldn't do this mean, basically, we couldn't do this mean, basically, we couldn't do this without the input of both farmers that without the input of both farmers that without the input of both farmers that we're working with and also, you know, we're working with and also, you know, we're working with and also, you know, other farmers that might just be coming other farmers that might just be coming other farmers that might just be coming along to the sites, coming to a visit. along to the sites, coming to a visit. along to the sites, coming to a visit. we're talking to at events, things like we're talking to at events, things like we're talking to at events, things like that. That input is just absolutely that. That input is just absolutely that. That input is just absolutely invaluable. As Sarah said, you know, we invaluable. As Sarah said, you know, we invaluable. As Sarah said, you know, we came to this sort of from a conservation came to this sort of from a conservation came to this sort of from a conservation background and have realized, well, background and have realized, well, background and have realized, well, okay, clearly we cannot restore every okay, clearly we cannot restore every okay, clearly we cannot restore every area of Pete in the entire of the UK area of Pete in the entire of the UK area of Pete in the entire of the UK back to pristine natural bulk. It it's back to pristine natural bulk. It it's back to pristine natural bulk. It it's just completely, you know, that would be just completely, you know, that would be just completely, you know, that would be silly. It seems unfeasible. So let's silly. It seems unfeasible. So let's silly. It seems unfeasible. So let's find ways that we can kind of make this find ways that we can kind of make this find ways that we can kind of make this land work both environmentally but also land work both environmentally but also land work both environmentally but also for farmers for the farming community. for farmers for the farming community. for farmers for the farming community. Like I come from a farming family, you Like I come from a farming family, you Like I come from a farming family, you know. No, no one goes into farming for know. No, no one goes into farming for know. No, no one goes into farming for all the money and the time off. You you all the money and the time off. You you all the money and the time off. You you go into farming because you love to farm go into farming because you love to farm go into farming because you love to farm and you know you're good at it. You know and you know you're good at it. You know and you know you're good at it. You know your land. Like no one knows their land your land. Like no one knows their land your land. Like no one knows their land better than a farmer. So that's why we better than a farmer. So that's why we better than a farmer. So that's why we really really need to kind of have those really really need to kind of have those really really need to kind of have those conversations to work with people to conversations to work with people to conversations to work with people to build those build those build those relationships. And yeah, I mean, as relationships. And yeah, I mean, as relationships. And yeah, I mean, as Sarah said, one of the big questions Sarah said, one of the big questions Sarah said, one of the big questions we've been asked quite correctly time we've been asked quite correctly time we've been asked quite correctly time and time again is like, how are you and time again is like, how are you and time again is like, how are you going to harvest this from a, you know, going to harvest this from a, you know, going to harvest this from a, you know, field with a higher water table? And for field with a higher water table? And for field with a higher water table? And for a while, we were like, we don't really a while, we were like, we don't really a while, we were like, we don't really know. know. know. Um and um yeah, now one of the farmers Um and um yeah, now one of the farmers Um and um yeah, now one of the farmers that we're working with in his amazing that we're working with in his amazing that we're working with in his amazing workshop is creating well she's known as workshop is creating well she's known as workshop is creating well she's known as Edna, our bull rush harvester who was Edna, our bull rush harvester who was Edna, our bull rush harvester who was once an apple or or sorry who was once once an apple or or sorry who was once once an apple or or sorry who was once an apple harvester um and is just an apple harvester um and is just an apple harvester um and is just getting yeah scrappy challenged away but getting yeah scrappy challenged away but getting yeah scrappy challenged away but without that kind of expertise and without that kind of expertise and without that kind of expertise and without that knowledge we'd be stuck. without that knowledge we'd be stuck. without that knowledge we'd be stuck. Yeah. So it it's just incredibly Yeah. So it it's just incredibly Yeah. So it it's just incredibly important that we kind of build those important that we kind of build those important that we kind of build those relationships and and can share that relationships and and can share that relationships and and can share that knowledge. To what extent is this part knowledge. To what extent is this part knowledge. To what extent is this part of policy makers thinking at the moment? of policy makers thinking at the moment? of policy makers thinking at the moment? And could we be in a position where And could we be in a position where And could we be in a position where wetter farming is is part of landscape wetter farming is is part of landscape wetter farming is is part of landscape recovery schemes uh recovery schemes uh recovery schemes uh SFI specific schemes? Yeah, absolutely. SFI specific schemes? Yeah, absolutely. SFI specific schemes? Yeah, absolutely. So I think when I first came into sort So I think when I first came into sort So I think when I first came into sort of definitely petland restoration and of definitely petland restoration and of definitely petland restoration and conservation there's definitely it felt conservation there's definitely it felt conservation there's definitely it felt as more a focus on sort of upland as more a focus on sort of upland as more a focus on sort of upland petland I guess cuz there so much of the petland I guess cuz there so much of the petland I guess cuz there so much of the lone areas have been sort of drained and lone areas have been sort of drained and lone areas have been sort of drained and converted for sort of quite you know converted for sort of quite you know converted for sort of quite you know grade one agriculture. it wasn't really grade one agriculture. it wasn't really grade one agriculture. it wasn't really thought of as an area that that things thought of as an area that that things thought of as an area that that things could be done differently possibly but I could be done differently possibly but I could be done differently possibly but I think increasingly policy makers are think increasingly policy makers are think increasingly policy makers are seeing that obviously in terms of the uh seeing that obviously in terms of the uh seeing that obviously in terms of the uh carbon emissions and reducing sort of UK carbon emissions and reducing sort of UK carbon emissions and reducing sort of UK car emissions moving towards net zero car emissions moving towards net zero car emissions moving towards net zero loan agriculture areas have a really big loan agriculture areas have a really big loan agriculture areas have a really big role to play so I think that's my from role to play so I think that's my from role to play so I think that's my from my opinion I think that's switched to my opinion I think that's switched to my opinion I think that's switched to focus a bit and land agriculture areas focus a bit and land agriculture areas focus a bit and land agriculture areas are sort of being thought of from a are sort of being thought of from a are sort of being thought of from a policy point of view about what policy point of view about what policy point of view about what different management options And I think different management options And I think different management options And I think that's reflected in sort of some of the that's reflected in sort of some of the that's reflected in sort of some of the um financial incentives that might come um financial incentives that might come um financial incentives that might come through sort of the changes in the ELMS through sort of the changes in the ELMS through sort of the changes in the ELMS scheme and sort of the some of the the scheme and sort of the some of the the scheme and sort of the some of the the um options for loan pete in the sort of um options for loan pete in the sort of um options for loan pete in the sort of SFI schemes and things like that where SFI schemes and things like that where SFI schemes and things like that where some of the options for raising the some of the options for raising the some of the options for raising the water level in cropped or arable pet pee water level in cropped or arable pet pee water level in cropped or arable pet pee soils the payments per hectare are soils the payments per hectare are soils the payments per hectare are really quite good compared to what they really quite good compared to what they really quite good compared to what they used to be. So I think that's sort of used to be. So I think that's sort of used to be. So I think that's sort of demonstrating I guess the importance demonstrating I guess the importance demonstrating I guess the importance that uh policy makers are placing on that uh policy makers are placing on that uh policy makers are placing on agriculture pizza or areas. But just agriculture pizza or areas. But just agriculture pizza or areas. But just going back to the previous point I want going back to the previous point I want going back to the previous point I want to say that it doesn't have to be either to say that it doesn't have to be either to say that it doesn't have to be either or sort of either farming or or sort of either farming or or sort of either farming or conservation. I think the two can sit conservation. I think the two can sit conservation. I think the two can sit side by side. So in a lot of areas where side by side. So in a lot of areas where side by side. So in a lot of areas where we are working you might you might have we are working you might you might have we are working you might you might have your core conservation areas which are your core conservation areas which are your core conservation areas which are managed purely for for wildlife that managed purely for for wildlife that managed purely for for wildlife that might be you know sort of our our nature might be you know sort of our our nature might be you know sort of our our nature reserves and then surrounding that you reserves and then surrounding that you reserves and then surrounding that you might have your your wetter farming might have your your wetter farming might have your your wetter farming areas where you got the high water table areas where you got the high water table areas where you got the high water table but it's still farming it but they allow but it's still farming it but they allow but it's still farming it but they allow more movement and and corridors for more movement and and corridors for more movement and and corridors for wildlife to move throughout the wildlife to move throughout the wildlife to move throughout the landscape. And then you might still have landscape. And then you might still have landscape. And then you might still have your more sort of drainage based your more sort of drainage based your more sort of drainage based conventional farming with that wet farm conventional farming with that wet farm conventional farming with that wet farm providing a buffer between the core providing a buffer between the core providing a buffer between the core conservation and your conventional conservation and your conventional conservation and your conventional farming area. So I think we really need farming area. So I think we really need farming area. So I think we really need to think about a mosaic which can work to think about a mosaic which can work to think about a mosaic which can work for wildlife and people. Jenny, I'm interested in the Jenny, I'm interested in the Jenny, I'm interested in the conversations that you have with farmers conversations that you have with farmers conversations that you have with farmers on this when it comes to rewetting and on this when it comes to rewetting and on this when it comes to rewetting and the range of responses that you get. the range of responses that you get. the range of responses that you get. Um it is a real range. Um one of the Um it is a real range. Um one of the Um it is a real range. Um one of the things we tend to get a lot of the time things we tend to get a lot of the time things we tend to get a lot of the time is like wetter farming. The bloody lands is like wetter farming. The bloody lands is like wetter farming. The bloody lands wet enough. wet enough. wet enough. Um and that does sort of you know it Um and that does sort of you know it Um and that does sort of you know it makes sense. A lot of people are really makes sense. A lot of people are really makes sense. A lot of people are really battling with sort of water log land battling with sort of water log land battling with sort of water log land that is getting more and more difficult that is getting more and more difficult that is getting more and more difficult to farm. And so, you know, they're kind to farm. And so, you know, they're kind to farm. And so, you know, they're kind of interested in finding out a bit more, of interested in finding out a bit more, of interested in finding out a bit more, like, all right, so I could potentially like, all right, so I could potentially like, all right, so I could potentially turn this land that's currently really turn this land that's currently really turn this land that's currently really hard work, that's really unprofitable hard work, that's really unprofitable hard work, that's really unprofitable actually into something that might, you actually into something that might, you actually into something that might, you know, I might be able to farm again, know, I might be able to farm again, know, I might be able to farm again, might be able to make me some money. At might be able to make me some money. At might be able to make me some money. At the end of the day, there's always going the end of the day, there's always going the end of the day, there's always going to be a a scale and it's not going to be to be a a scale and it's not going to be to be a a scale and it's not going to be right for everyone. Not everyone's going right for everyone. Not everyone's going right for everyone. Not everyone's going to want to investigate it. But what I've to want to investigate it. But what I've to want to investigate it. But what I've noticed, I'd say probably over the past noticed, I'd say probably over the past noticed, I'd say probably over the past few years, is that there's certainly few years, is that there's certainly few years, is that there's certainly more awareness of some of the issues and more awareness of some of the issues and more awareness of some of the issues and that sort of wetter farming or polluture that sort of wetter farming or polluture that sort of wetter farming or polluture could potentially be could potentially be could potentially be something that could be used to kind of something that could be used to kind of something that could be used to kind of address some of these. So, you know, address some of these. So, you know, address some of these. So, you know, we've been going to agricultural shows we've been going to agricultural shows we've been going to agricultural shows for a couple of years, and I remember for a couple of years, and I remember for a couple of years, and I remember standing on a stall with that had a standing on a stall with that had a standing on a stall with that had a great big pollutulture banner on the top great big pollutulture banner on the top great big pollutulture banner on the top of it, and a couple of years ago of it, and a couple of years ago of it, and a couple of years ago standing on that store and people standing on that store and people standing on that store and people walking past going, "Polid what?" Yeah. walking past going, "Polid what?" Yeah. walking past going, "Polid what?" Yeah. And Yeah, absolutely. Some people still, And Yeah, absolutely. Some people still, And Yeah, absolutely. Some people still, you know, it's a completely new word, you know, it's a completely new word, you know, it's a completely new word, but that's going down. And actually, but that's going down. And actually, but that's going down. And actually, there's more people being like, "Oh, there's more people being like, "Oh, there's more people being like, "Oh, I've heard of this. Tell me more. I've heard of this. Tell me more. I've heard of this. Tell me more. Explain it to me. how could this work on Explain it to me. how could this work on Explain it to me. how could this work on my land? Um, and what is also really my land? Um, and what is also really my land? Um, and what is also really useful actually is people will come and useful actually is people will come and useful actually is people will come and talk and challenge because those you talk and challenge because those you talk and challenge because those you know know know challenging and asking questions is so challenging and asking questions is so challenging and asking questions is so important and it's really really useful. important and it's really really useful. important and it's really really useful. Um, and you know that's how we we figure Um, and you know that's how we we figure Um, and you know that's how we we figure out where the issues lie and how to try out where the issues lie and how to try out where the issues lie and how to try and work around those. And I think you and work around those. And I think you and work around those. And I think you know as Sarah mentioned there are some know as Sarah mentioned there are some know as Sarah mentioned there are some of the um new payment schemes that were of the um new payment schemes that were of the um new payment schemes that were in have been announced in SFI. Obviously in have been announced in SFI. Obviously in have been announced in SFI. Obviously that's paused at the moment which is a a that's paused at the moment which is a a that's paused at the moment which is a a different it's a conversation for a different it's a conversation for a different it's a conversation for a different day. Um, but you know, some of different day. Um, but you know, some of different day. Um, but you know, some of those payments are really those payments are really those payments are really good. And once you start being able to good. And once you start being able to good. And once you start being able to to give people some kind of ideas of to give people some kind of ideas of to give people some kind of ideas of whether or not you can make any money whether or not you can make any money whether or not you can make any money out of this, then that really helps to out of this, then that really helps to out of this, then that really helps to move that conversation on as well. So, a move that conversation on as well. So, a move that conversation on as well. So, a lot of the work we've been doing has lot of the work we've been doing has lot of the work we've been doing has been kind of been kind of been kind of sitting almost in the background. Um sitting almost in the background. Um sitting almost in the background. Um because as a wildlife trust, one of the because as a wildlife trust, one of the because as a wildlife trust, one of the things we are able to do is sort of sit things we are able to do is sort of sit things we are able to do is sort of sit in a bit of a bridge in between farmers in a bit of a bridge in between farmers in a bit of a bridge in between farmers and policy makers. So as much as we work and policy makers. So as much as we work and policy makers. So as much as we work with farmers, we actually we're on with farmers, we actually we're on with farmers, we actually we're on firstname terms with a lot of the people firstname terms with a lot of the people firstname terms with a lot of the people in DERA because a lot of the work we're in DERA because a lot of the work we're in DERA because a lot of the work we're doing and you know the monitoring the doing and you know the monitoring the doing and you know the monitoring the the data we're getting out of that we're the data we're getting out of that we're the data we're getting out of that we're feeding directly to those policy makers. feeding directly to those policy makers. feeding directly to those policy makers. Um, you know, we're bringing people, Um, you know, we're bringing people, Um, you know, we're bringing people, we're bringing deafer out onto the we're bringing deafer out onto the we're bringing deafer out onto the sites. We're bringing, you know, sites. We're bringing, you know, sites. We're bringing, you know, ministers and people out onto some of ministers and people out onto some of ministers and people out onto some of our sites to say, "Look, this is what our sites to say, "Look, this is what our sites to say, "Look, this is what we're doing. This is why we're doing it. we're doing. This is why we're doing it. we're doing. This is why we're doing it. We need you to know about this. Here are We need you to know about this. Here are We need you to know about this. Here are some of the issues. What can you do to some of the issues. What can you do to some of the issues. What can you do to help address these or support it?" Um, help address these or support it?" Um, help address these or support it?" Um, so yeah, having those conversations is so yeah, having those conversations is so yeah, having those conversations is really important. But yeah, absolutely. really important. But yeah, absolutely. really important. But yeah, absolutely. We still have quite a lot of We still have quite a lot of We still have quite a lot of conversations with people being like, conversations with people being like, conversations with people being like, "Are you mad? "Are you mad? "Are you mad? My fields are already extremely wet. Why My fields are already extremely wet. Why My fields are already extremely wet. Why would I want to make them wetter? would I want to make them wetter? would I want to make them wetter? I think there is also although yes, the I think there is also although yes, the I think there is also although yes, the Northwest is renowned for the amount of Northwest is renowned for the amount of Northwest is renowned for the amount of rainfall we get compared to the east of rainfall we get compared to the east of rainfall we get compared to the east of England. So the the challenges for well England. So the the challenges for well England. So the the challenges for well future wetter farmers will be different future wetter farmers will be different future wetter farmers will be different in the northwest and the east of in the northwest and the east of in the northwest and the east of England, but we're all going to be England, but we're all going to be England, but we're all going to be facing that changing climate where the facing that changing climate where the facing that changing climate where the weather patterns are more unpredictable. weather patterns are more unpredictable. weather patterns are more unpredictable. So you might have prolonged dry periods So you might have prolonged dry periods So you might have prolonged dry periods even, you know, as well as those sort of even, you know, as well as those sort of even, you know, as well as those sort of intense rainfall periods as well. And intense rainfall periods as well. And intense rainfall periods as well. And and that's what we hear a lot from and that's what we hear a lot from and that's what we hear a lot from farmers like wanting to think about how farmers like wanting to think about how farmers like wanting to think about how they can manage water differently. So they can manage water differently. So they can manage water differently. So you might be need to think about you you might be need to think about you you might be need to think about you know water storage for some parts of the know water storage for some parts of the know water storage for some parts of the year. Yeah. When it is you are having year. Yeah. When it is you are having year. Yeah. When it is you are having that intense rainfall in order to be that intense rainfall in order to be that intense rainfall in order to be able to deal with a prolonged dry able to deal with a prolonged dry able to deal with a prolonged dry periods as well. But each region has its periods as well. But each region has its periods as well. But each region has its own challenges. For example the own challenges. For example the own challenges. For example the northwest especially where we're working northwest especially where we're working northwest especially where we're working we don't have um internal drainage we don't have um internal drainage we don't have um internal drainage boards but obviously they exist in other boards but obviously they exist in other boards but obviously they exist in other parts of the country. So that poses parts of the country. So that poses parts of the country. So that poses different opportunities and challenges different opportunities and challenges different opportunities and challenges for for each each region. But I imagine for for each each region. But I imagine for for each each region. But I imagine we face a lot of the same questions. So we face a lot of the same questions. So we face a lot of the same questions. So which have been very valid questions which have been very valid questions which have been very valid questions when we've brought people out to our when we've brought people out to our when we've brought people out to our trial site. So you know how will I not trial site. So you know how will I not trial site. So you know how will I not uh flood my neighbors land. That was one uh flood my neighbors land. That was one uh flood my neighbors land. That was one of the key things. So trying to de of the key things. So trying to de of the key things. So trying to de demonstrate how what we've done in terms demonstrate how what we've done in terms demonstrate how what we've done in terms of ground preparation in order to be of ground preparation in order to be of ground preparation in order to be able to prevent any sort of flooding on able to prevent any sort of flooding on able to prevent any sort of flooding on neighbors land. And then we had the neighbors land. And then we had the neighbors land. And then we had the question about but what about food question about but what about food question about but what about food security? So that's why in another of security? So that's why in another of security? So that's why in another of our trials we said okay let's look at our trials we said okay let's look at our trials we said okay let's look at what food crops can be grown. So those what food crops can be grown. So those what food crops can be grown. So those conversations, even if they're conversations, even if they're conversations, even if they're challenging ones, are really good. But challenging ones, are really good. But challenging ones, are really good. But the bottom line will be demonstrating the bottom line will be demonstrating the bottom line will be demonstrating the financial opportunities for West the financial opportunities for West the financial opportunities for West Army if we really want it to be scaled Army if we really want it to be scaled Army if we really want it to be scaled up and rolled out further. And that will up and rolled out further. And that will up and rolled out further. And that will come through both support through for come through both support through for come through both support through for example um DERA and environmental example um DERA and environmental example um DERA and environmental stewardship payments, but also stewardship payments, but also stewardship payments, but also demonstrating how this can fit within demonstrating how this can fit within demonstrating how this can fit within sort of green finance, blended finance sort of green finance, blended finance sort of green finance, blended finance options through carbon. a fascinating conversation today. Uh I'm a fascinating conversation today. Uh I'm a fascinating conversation today. Uh I'm sure that listeners will have many other sure that listeners will have many other sure that listeners will have many other questions going through their minds. Um questions going through their minds. Um questions going through their minds. Um if a farmer or land owner or anyone else if a farmer or land owner or anyone else if a farmer or land owner or anyone else for that matter is interesting is is for that matter is interesting is is for that matter is interesting is is listening to this and is interested in listening to this and is interested in listening to this and is interested in wetter farming, where can they go to wetter farming, where can they go to wetter farming, where can they go to find out more information or support? Is find out more information or support? Is find out more information or support? Is there anything you can signpost them to? there anything you can signpost them to? there anything you can signpost them to? One of the great places you can go to is One of the great places you can go to is One of the great places you can go to is just um our website. So that's just um our website. So that's just um our website. So that's lxswt.org. org.uk. Um you can email us lxswt.org. org.uk. Um you can email us lxswt.org. org.uk. Um you can email us as well which is just info@langswt.org.uk. Um there's also info@langswt.org.uk. Um there's also info@langswt.org.uk. Um there's also another really nice website um called another really nice website um called another really nice website um called polludiculture.org.uk and that's got polludiculture.org.uk and that's got polludiculture.org.uk and that's got details of like all the different details of like all the different details of like all the different trials, all the different sort of trials, all the different sort of trials, all the different sort of organizations who are involved and organizations who are involved and organizations who are involved and contact details on there as well. And contact details on there as well. And contact details on there as well. And yeah, basically you know we're always yeah, basically you know we're always yeah, basically you know we're always really happy to talk. We're always really happy to talk. We're always really happy to talk. We're always really keen to talk to people, to answer really keen to talk to people, to answer really keen to talk to people, to answer questions, to be challenged. So, yeah, questions, to be challenged. So, yeah, questions, to be challenged. So, yeah, get in touch. Give us a shout. We'd love get in touch. Give us a shout. We'd love get in touch. Give us a shout. We'd love to hear from you. Brilliant. Well, we to hear from you. Brilliant. Well, we to hear from you. Brilliant. Well, we will leave it there. But, um, Jenny and will leave it there. But, um, Jenny and will leave it there. But, um, Jenny and Sarah, thank you so much for coming on Sarah, thank you so much for coming on Sarah, thank you so much for coming on the show. Um, it's definitely it's a new the show. Um, it's definitely it's a new the show. Um, it's definitely it's a new a new subject for me um and a new a new subject for me um and a new a new subject for me um and a new subject, I'm sure, for many of our subject, I'm sure, for many of our subject, I'm sure, for many of our listeners. So, it will have got brains listeners. So, it will have got brains listeners. So, it will have got brains thinking for sure. Um, but thank you so thinking for sure. Um, but thank you so thinking for sure. Um, but thank you so much for your time and for coming on the much for your time and for coming on the much for your time and for coming on the podcast. and thank you for having us on podcast. and thank you for having us on podcast. and thank you for having us on too. That is it for today. We will leave too. That is it for today. We will leave too. That is it for today. We will leave it there. Um, a big thank you to my it there. Um, a big thank you to my it there. Um, a big thank you to my guests Jenny Benyan and Sarah Johnson guests Jenny Benyan and Sarah Johnson guests Jenny Benyan and Sarah Johnson for coming on the show and thank you for coming on the show and thank you for coming on the show and thank you very much for listening. Um, I hope you very much for listening. Um, I hope you very much for listening. Um, I hope you can join me next time, but for now I'm can join me next time, but for now I'm can join me next time, but for now I'm Ben Eagle. This has been Meet the Ben Eagle. This has been Meet the Ben Eagle. This has been Meet the Farmers and thank you very much for Farmers and thank you very much for Farmers and thank you very much for listening.
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Zoom into Soil: Green and Sustainable Remediation of Contaminated Sites

2026-05-29T14:07:29Z

Bertrand Gorge: Maintenance script update: Ajoute les transcriptions YouTube aux pages vidéo qui n'en ont pas - See https://github.com/neayi/tripleperformance/issues/435

{{vidéo
| Titre = Zoom into Soil: Green and Sustainable Remediation of Contaminated Sites
| Producteur = British Society of Soil Science
| Vignette = Thumbnail_youtube_TZ-rdgbQ_qY.jpg
| Date de mise en ligne = 2023-10-05
| Durée = 61 minutes
| Production =
| Vidéo = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZ-rdgbQ_qY
| Intervenants 0 = Deyi Hou
| Intervenants 1 = Paul Nathanail
| Mots-clés = NBSOIL
}}

In this webinar, Deyi Hou, Editor of the Soil Use and Management journal, and Paul Nathanail, Director at Land Quality Management Ltd, discuss Green and Sustainable Remediation of Contaminated Sites.

Prof. Deyi Hou is the Head of Soil and Groundwater Division at Tsinghua University. He is also serving as the Vice Chair of the UN-FAO International Network of Soil Pollution (INSOP). His research has focused on contaminant transport and distribution in soil and groundwater, synthesis of innovative environmental functional materials, green and sustainable remediation. Prof. Hou has conducted numerous projects involving soil and groundwater pollution at site-level, regional-level, and national level. He has published 5 books and over 200 journal papers on top journals including Nature, Science, Nature Climate Change, Nature Sustainability, Nature Review Earth & Environment, etc. Prof. Deyi Hou is currently serving as the Editor-in-Chief for Soil Use and Management, and Associate Editor for Science of the Total Environment.

Dr Paul Nathanail is a Specialist in Land Condition (SiLC), Suitably Qualified Person under the NQMS and a Chartered Geologist. He is Director at Land Quality Management Ltd that offers specialist services in the assessment and remediation of contaminated sites. Dr Nathanail has a long standing interest in improving professional standards in land contamination risk management and sustainable brownfield regeneration. He has consulted on and provided expert evidence for many landfill redevelopment projects. He also led the team that wrote the ISO on sustainable remediation.

The British Society of Soil Science is an established international membership organisation and charity committed to the study of soil in its widest aspects.

Keep up to date with our events and training - https://soils.org.uk/events/

Check out our Annual Conference - https://members.soils.org.uk/event-5055572

#landremediation #sustainableremediation #britishsocietyofsoilscience #soilscience #soil #remediation

{{Pages liées}}

{{Transcription
| transcription = hello there welcome to the webinar I'm hello there welcome to the webinar I'm hello there welcome to the webinar I'm Jack Hannon I'm president of the British Jack Hannon I'm president of the British Jack Hannon I'm president of the British Society of soil science and I'm really Society of soil science and I'm really Society of soil science and I'm really delighted to welcome you to our seventh delighted to welcome you to our seventh delighted to welcome you to our seventh webinar this year um before I welcome webinar this year um before I welcome webinar this year um before I welcome our presenters I'd just like to our presenters I'd just like to our presenters I'd just like to introduce the British Society of soil introduce the British Society of soil introduce the British Society of soil science so we're host of today's webinar science so we're host of today's webinar science so we're host of today's webinar and we're an established membership and we're an established membership and we're an established membership organization and charity and we're organization and charity and we're organization and charity and we're committed to the study of the soil in committed to the study of the soil in committed to the study of the soil in its widest aspects and and we bring its widest aspects and and we bring its widest aspects and and we bring together those working in Academia and together those working in Academia and together those working in Academia and we've got a really big growing we've got a really big growing we've got a really big growing membership amongst practitioners who are membership amongst practitioners who are membership amongst practitioners who are implementing soil science in implementing soil science in implementing soil science in industry and we also obviously welcome industry and we also obviously welcome industry and we also obviously welcome anybody that has a keen interest in anybody that has a keen interest in anybody that has a keen interest in soils to join the society too um we'll soils to join the society too um we'll soils to join the society too um we'll be hosting eight webinars during 2023 so be hosting eight webinars during 2023 so be hosting eight webinars during 2023 so keep an eye out for our last one uh on keep an eye out for our last one uh on keep an eye out for our last one uh on the website for further the website for further the website for further details and just before we details and just before we details and just before we begin uh just a bit of basic begin uh just a bit of basic begin uh just a bit of basic housekeeping we've got a lot of you uh housekeeping we've got a lot of you uh housekeeping we've got a lot of you uh on the call um your microphones have on the call um your microphones have on the call um your microphones have been been been muted um we will take questions right at muted um we will take questions right at muted um we will take questions right at the end of both the end of both the end of both presentations um and we'll be monitoring presentations um and we'll be monitoring presentations um and we'll be monitoring those throughout the webinar so do pop those throughout the webinar so do pop those throughout the webinar so do pop your questions as we go along in the your questions as we go along in the your questions as we go along in the questions box and just try and do that questions box and just try and do that questions box and just try and do that by by by 1250 and that'll allow us to get through 1250 and that'll allow us to get through 1250 and that'll allow us to get through as many we as we can after the two as many we as we can after the two as many we as we can after the two presentations at the presentations at the presentations at the end U you might have noticed there is a end U you might have noticed there is a end U you might have noticed there is a your hand button but we're not going to your hand button but we're not going to your hand button but we're not going to use that uh during the webinar unless use that uh during the webinar unless use that uh during the webinar unless the presenter specifically ask for a the presenter specifically ask for a the presenter specifically ask for a show of hands during their show of hands during their show of hands during their presentation um today's uh webinar has presentation um today's uh webinar has presentation um today's uh webinar has been awarded both basis and NRS so CPD been awarded both basis and NRS so CPD been awarded both basis and NRS so CPD points so if you're registered with points so if you're registered with points so if you're registered with either of those please do please do either of those please do please do either of those please do please do contact us after the event so that you contact us after the event so that you contact us after the event so that you can be awarded your CPD points for the can be awarded your CPD points for the can be awarded your CPD points for the webinar and just to make you aware um we webinar and just to make you aware um we webinar and just to make you aware um we are recording today's presentation it are recording today's presentation it are recording today's presentation it will be available on our YouTube channel will be available on our YouTube channel will be available on our YouTube channel uh after the uh after the uh after the webinar so enough for me um I'd really webinar so enough for me um I'd really webinar so enough for me um I'd really like to welcome our first like to welcome our first like to welcome our first presenter um this is Professor de who presenter um this is Professor de who presenter um this is Professor de who and he's head of the soul and and he's head of the soul and and he's head of the soul and groundwater division at chingad groundwater division at chingad groundwater division at chingad University and he's serving as the vice University and he's serving as the vice University and he's serving as the vice chair of the UN FAO International chair of the UN FAO International chair of the UN FAO International Network on soil Network on soil Network on soil pollution and his re research is focused pollution and his re research is focused pollution and his re research is focused on contaminate transport and on contaminate transport and on contaminate transport and distribution both in soils and distribution both in soils and distribution both in soils and groundw synthesis of innovative groundw synthesis of innovative groundw synthesis of innovative environmental functions and materials environmental functions and materials environmental functions and materials and green and sustainable and green and sustainable and green and sustainable remediation he's conducted numerous remediation he's conducted numerous remediation he's conducted numerous projects involving soil and groundwater projects involving soil and groundwater projects involving soil and groundwater pollution both at site Regional and pollution both at site Regional and pollution both at site Regional and National level um he's published over National level um he's published over National level um he's published over five books uh 200 Journal papers in top five books uh 200 Journal papers in top five books uh 200 Journal papers in top journals including nature nature science journals including nature nature science journals including nature nature science nature climate change nature nature climate change nature nature climate change nature sustainability nature review amongst sustainability nature review amongst sustainability nature review amongst others um and we're really delighted others um and we're really delighted others um and we're really delighted that um da is currently serving as the that um da is currently serving as the that um da is currently serving as the editor and chief for one of our journals editor and chief for one of our journals editor and chief for one of our journals saw uson management and he's also an saw uson management and he's also an saw uson management and he's also an associate editor for science of the associate editor for science of the associate editor for science of the total total total environment so I'm really excited to environment so I'm really excited to environment so I'm really excited to hear what you've got to say um da so uh hear what you've got to say um da so uh hear what you've got to say um da so uh it's over to you to do your presentation it's over to you to do your presentation it's over to you to do your presentation thank you Jack um do you see my screen thank you Jack um do you see my screen thank you Jack um do you see my screen now yeah that's absolutely perfect yep now yeah that's absolutely perfect yep now yeah that's absolutely perfect yep go ahead okay great thanks great uh good go ahead okay great thanks great uh good go ahead okay great thanks great uh good morning ladies and gentlemen um my morning ladies and gentlemen um my morning ladies and gentlemen um my friends um it's a great pleasure uh to friends um it's a great pleasure uh to friends um it's a great pleasure uh to talk at this seminar talk at this seminar talk at this seminar series um and uh today I'm going to talk series um and uh today I'm going to talk series um and uh today I'm going to talk about the green and the sustainable about the green and the sustainable about the green and the sustainable remediation of contaminated sites um I remediation of contaminated sites um I remediation of contaminated sites um I have been studying uh sustainable have been studying uh sustainable have been studying uh sustainable remediation uh since I did my PhD um remediation uh since I did my PhD um remediation uh since I did my PhD um over a decade ago at University of over a decade ago at University of over a decade ago at University of Cambridge uh and uh it's it's great job Cambridge uh and uh it's it's great job Cambridge uh and uh it's it's great job joy to talk to our friends uh in the UK joy to talk to our friends uh in the UK joy to talk to our friends uh in the UK about this about this about this topic um first I want to give a short topic um first I want to give a short topic um first I want to give a short introduction introduction introduction um you probably are all are familiar um you probably are all are familiar um you probably are all are familiar with um soil and uh the United Nations with um soil and uh the United Nations with um soil and uh the United Nations sustainable development goals and uh if sustainable development goals and uh if sustainable development goals and uh if we look at this chart um we can see that we look at this chart um we can see that we look at this chart um we can see that soil pollution can affect another of SGS soil pollution can affect another of SGS soil pollution can affect another of SGS ranging from uh no poverty zero hunger ranging from uh no poverty zero hunger ranging from uh no poverty zero hunger to climate action and B diversity and so to climate action and B diversity and so to climate action and B diversity and so on um Brownfield side POS a particular on um Brownfield side POS a particular on um Brownfield side POS a particular challenge to um soil pollution challenge to um soil pollution challenge to um soil pollution prevention um and prevention um and prevention um and mitigation um globally um based on the mitigation um globally um based on the mitigation um globally um based on the existing data and some regression existing data and some regression existing data and some regression analysis we estimated that there are analysis we estimated that there are analysis we estimated that there are over 5 million br fides um in China over 5 million br fides um in China over 5 million br fides um in China alone uh we estimate there is over 1 alone uh we estimate there is over 1 alone uh we estimate there is over 1 million potential contamin sites um the remediation of uh sites um the remediation of uh sites um the remediation of uh contaminate sites um has started uh contaminate sites um has started uh contaminate sites um has started uh since the last century um the since the last century um the since the last century um the the the primarily um begin with um a few the the primarily um begin with um a few the the primarily um begin with um a few Pro high-profile cases in the US and the Pro high-profile cases in the US and the Pro high-profile cases in the US and the L L L um one of the most famous one is the L um one of the most famous one is the L um one of the most famous one is the L canal inent and and because of those canal inent and and because of those canal inent and and because of those high profile cases and the public high profile cases and the public high profile cases and the public pressure during the early days um the pressure during the early days um the pressure during the early days um the remediation industry uh mostly take a remediation industry uh mostly take a remediation industry uh mostly take a removal oil removal oil removal oil approach um which means that uh um the approach um which means that uh um the approach um which means that uh um the public um and The Regulators want the public um and The Regulators want the public um and The Regulators want the the polluters and the remediation party the polluters and the remediation party the polluters and the remediation party is to remove all contaminated media is to remove all contaminated media is to remove all contaminated media including soil and ground water which including soil and ground water which including soil and ground water which was found later to be um unfeasible um was found later to be um unfeasible um was found later to be um unfeasible um one example is um for groundwater one example is um for groundwater one example is um for groundwater remediation um it's extremely difficult remediation um it's extremely difficult remediation um it's extremely difficult to reach the maximum cleanup level um in to reach the maximum cleanup level um in to reach the maximum cleanup level um in the um the MCL um in the US is a the um the MCL um in the US is a the um the MCL um in the US is a drinking water standard um so um in the drinking water standard um so um in the drinking water standard um so um in the 1990s and 2000s um the risk based clean 1990s and 2000s um the risk based clean 1990s and 2000s um the risk based clean approach um is increasingly approach um is increasingly approach um is increasingly adopted and um it also aligns with an adopted and um it also aligns with an adopted and um it also aligns with an initiative Initiative for sustainable initiative Initiative for sustainable initiative Initiative for sustainable Land Land Land Management um more recently um the Management um more recently um the Management um more recently um the remediation industry um are increasingly remediation industry um are increasingly remediation industry um are increasingly looking at sustainable looking at sustainable looking at sustainable remediation remediation remediation um so if we look at this chart we can um so if we look at this chart we can um so if we look at this chart we can see uh scientific literature related to see uh scientific literature related to see uh scientific literature related to green and sustainable remediation has green and sustainable remediation has green and sustainable remediation has grown rapidly over the last uh decade or grown rapidly over the last uh decade or grown rapidly over the last uh decade or so um it's pretty much in exponential so um it's pretty much in exponential so um it's pretty much in exponential growth and during this period we can see growth and during this period we can see growth and during this period we can see uh in the early days uh life cycle uh in the early days uh life cycle uh in the early days uh life cycle analysis paved the way for better analysis paved the way for better analysis paved the way for better understanding of what sustainability understanding of what sustainability understanding of what sustainability means for the remediation industry and means for the remediation industry and means for the remediation industry and uh in 2006 um the sustainable remedi uh in 2006 um the sustainable remedi uh in 2006 um the sustainable remedi Forum was first founded in the US um and Forum was first founded in the US um and Forum was first founded in the US um and uh um also um USP and many other uh um also um USP and many other uh um also um USP and many other governments all around the world are governments all around the world are governments all around the world are establishing um policies and um establishing um policies and um establishing um policies and um regulatory requirements around regulatory requirements around regulatory requirements around sustainable remediation uh there are sustainable remediation uh there are sustainable remediation uh there are also a few International standards uh also a few International standards uh also a few International standards uh including the iso standard um which I'm including the iso standard um which I'm including the iso standard um which I'm sure Co will talk um in the uh next next presentation um next I want to talk presentation um next I want to talk presentation um next I want to talk about the life cycle net benefit of about the life cycle net benefit of about the life cycle net benefit of remediation first let's look at the remediation first let's look at the remediation first let's look at the definition of sustainable remediation definition of sustainable remediation definition of sustainable remediation and green remediation um sustainable and green remediation um sustainable and green remediation um sustainable remediation is more broadly U adopted um remediation is more broadly U adopted um remediation is more broadly U adopted um in the remediation industry around the in the remediation industry around the in the remediation industry around the world and uh um its main message is to world and uh um its main message is to world and uh um its main message is to maximize the overall environment Al maximize the overall environment Al maximize the overall environment Al social and economic benefits of social and economic benefits of social and economic benefits of remediation green remediation was more remediation green remediation was more remediation green remediation was more widely um adopted in the US and uh um it widely um adopted in the US and uh um it widely um adopted in the US and uh um it is uh mainly looking at the is uh mainly looking at the is uh mainly looking at the environmental uh benefit more specific environmental uh benefit more specific environmental uh benefit more specific the net environment benefit of remediation so to support um green and remediation so to support um green and remediation so to support um green and sustainable remediation it's um sustainable remediation it's um sustainable remediation it's um essential to conduct some sort of essential to conduct some sort of essential to conduct some sort of sustainability assessment either sustainability assessment either sustainability assessment either quantitative or semi quantitative or quantitative or semi quantitative or quantitative or semi quantitative or quantitative and a um core value of quantitative and a um core value of quantitative and a um core value of sustainability assessment is to capture sustainability assessment is to capture sustainability assessment is to capture the the the externalities that are not included in externalities that are not included in externalities that are not included in the traditional decision making the traditional decision making the traditional decision making framework for example uh when we talk framework for example uh when we talk framework for example uh when we talk about uh uh remediation um we RAR talk about uh uh remediation um we RAR talk about uh uh remediation um we RAR talk about carbon emission or so about carbon emission or so about carbon emission or so biodiversity um all air pollution biodiversity um all air pollution biodiversity um all air pollution associated with the manufacturer of the associated with the manufacturer of the associated with the manufacturer of the equipment of the materials used in equipment of the materials used in equipment of the materials used in remediation and all these are considered remediation and all these are considered remediation and all these are considered the externality um that are part of the the externality um that are part of the the externality um that are part of the remediation uh life cycle remediation uh life cycle remediation uh life cycle processes in the um ongoing movement of processes in the um ongoing movement of processes in the um ongoing movement of sustainable remediation and we ought to sustainable remediation and we ought to sustainable remediation and we ought to uh capture these um additional um uh capture these um additional um uh capture these um additional um factors this is a chart take from taken from an this is a chart take from taken from an this is a chart take from taken from an USP publication it shows three levels of USP publication it shows three levels of USP publication it shows three levels of considerations around remediation level considerations around remediation level considerations around remediation level one is at the middle uh of the um of the one is at the middle uh of the um of the one is at the middle uh of the um of the chart it shows uh the processes chart it shows uh the processes chart it shows uh the processes occurring at the contaminant site and occurring at the contaminant site and occurring at the contaminant site and level two is the transport process um level two is the transport process um level two is the transport process um associated with the materials that are associated with the materials that are associated with the materials that are used at the site and the thir level is used at the site and the thir level is used at the site and the thir level is the um process in which people make the the um process in which people make the the um process in which people make the raw material and Equipment um this this raw material and Equipment um this this raw material and Equipment um this this level three activities may occur level three activities may occur level three activities may occur thousands of kilometers away from the thousands of kilometers away from the thousands of kilometers away from the contaminate s in order to do a holistic s in order to do a holistic s in order to do a holistic sustainability assessment we need to go sustainability assessment we need to go sustainability assessment we need to go beyond uh some existing boundaries in beyond uh some existing boundaries in beyond uh some existing boundaries in traditional decision making processes traditional decision making processes traditional decision making processes one is on the spatial scale while one is on the spatial scale while one is on the spatial scale while traditionally we mainly look at the traditionally we mainly look at the traditionally we mainly look at the onside processes um for sustainability onside processes um for sustainability onside processes um for sustainability assessment we need to look at U Regional assessment we need to look at U Regional assessment we need to look at U Regional even Global um impacts for example the even Global um impacts for example the even Global um impacts for example the green high gas emission and global green high gas emission and global green high gas emission and global warming warming warming potentials uh on the temporal scale um potentials uh on the temporal scale um potentials uh on the temporal scale um we needed to not only look at the we needed to not only look at the we needed to not only look at the current St use but also the Futures that current St use but also the Futures that current St use but also the Futures that are use and also when it comes to the are use and also when it comes to the are use and also when it comes to the impact category we need to look at the impact category we need to look at the impact category we need to look at the environmental but also social and environmental but also social and environmental but also social and economic economic economic impacts and there are also three levels impacts and there are also three levels impacts and there are also three levels of uh impact the primary impact of uh impact the primary impact of uh impact the primary impact secondary impact and tertiary impact secondary impact and tertiary impact secondary impact and tertiary impact these are um special terms that we are these are um special terms that we are these are um special terms that we are using in the using in the using in the remediation uh research Community remediation uh research Community remediation uh research Community primary impact fact refers to the impact primary impact fact refers to the impact primary impact fact refers to the impact associated with uh the physical state um associated with uh the physical state um associated with uh the physical state um of the site and quite often we can use of the site and quite often we can use of the site and quite often we can use risk assessment uh to uh evaluate some risk assessment uh to uh evaluate some risk assessment uh to uh evaluate some of those uh impacts the secondary impact of those uh impacts the secondary impact of those uh impacts the secondary impact is the life cycle impact associated with is the life cycle impact associated with is the life cycle impact associated with the remediation processes um which the remediation processes um which the remediation processes um which reflect the the CH that I showed earlier reflect the the CH that I showed earlier reflect the the CH that I showed earlier which was taken from the USP I which was taken from the USP I which was taken from the USP I different levels of for um secondary different levels of for um secondary different levels of for um secondary impact and S the level which still not impact and S the level which still not impact and S the level which still not widely done uh refers to tertiary impact widely done uh refers to tertiary impact widely done uh refers to tertiary impact is a consequential impact of remediation is a consequential impact of remediation is a consequential impact of remediation um it matters uh due to the change of s um it matters uh due to the change of s um it matters uh due to the change of s of use so that's why it is a of use so that's why it is a of use so that's why it is a consequential consequential consequential impact uh the next challenge um I want impact uh the next challenge um I want impact uh the next challenge um I want to talk about to talk about to talk about um is is is um I want to show the reason um is is is um I want to show the reason um is is is um I want to show the reason of um talking about the green of um talking about the green of um talking about the green sustainable remediation um and sustainable remediation um and sustainable remediation um and sustainable assessment traditionally we sustainable assessment traditionally we sustainable assessment traditionally we use the health risk assessment um now use the health risk assessment um now use the health risk assessment um now more than a few decades but there are more than a few decades but there are more than a few decades but there are some shortcomings for example um it some shortcomings for example um it some shortcomings for example um it doesn't relate the risk of contaminant doesn't relate the risk of contaminant doesn't relate the risk of contaminant level with the volume of contaminated level with the volume of contaminated level with the volume of contaminated media as I show on this um the two media as I show on this um the two media as I show on this um the two figures below um for sat a um and S B figures below um for sat a um and S B figures below um for sat a um and S B the the marginal benefit the the marginal benefit the the marginal benefit uh differs greatly so um in theory we uh differs greatly so um in theory we uh differs greatly so um in theory we should allocate different levels of should allocate different levels of should allocate different levels of resource for the remediation of the two resource for the remediation of the two resource for the remediation of the two sites um to achieve uh different goals sites um to achieve uh different goals sites um to achieve uh different goals but in reality we often only look at in but in reality we often only look at in but in reality we often only look at in arbitrarily set levels for example in arbitrarily set levels for example in arbitrarily set levels for example in China we always look at the 10p minus 6 China we always look at the 10p minus 6 China we always look at the 10p minus 6 um which is not necessarily um the best um which is not necessarily um the best um which is not necessarily um the best of value for the whole of value for the whole of value for the whole society um and in another Factor is um society um and in another Factor is um society um and in another Factor is um the level of efforts quickly increase as the level of efforts quickly increase as the level of efforts quickly increase as a remediation standard becomes more a remediation standard becomes more a remediation standard becomes more stringent especially on the lower end so stringent especially on the lower end so stringent especially on the lower end so combining these two efforts um we can combining these two efforts um we can combining these two efforts um we can see that the difference between uh the see that the difference between uh the see that the difference between uh the benefit of the remediation and the benefit of the remediation and the benefit of the remediation and the environmental cost of the remediation is environmental cost of the remediation is environmental cost of the remediation is the net environmental benefit and this the net environmental benefit and this the net environmental benefit and this net environment benefit um needs to be net environment benefit um needs to be net environment benefit um needs to be maximized during um the sustainable maximized during um the sustainable maximized during um the sustainable remediation decision- making remediation decision- making remediation decision- making process and here uh we're showing a process and here uh we're showing a process and here uh we're showing a study that we did which showed that on study that we did which showed that on study that we did which showed that on the different C levels the uh net the different C levels the uh net the different C levels the uh net environment benefit uh can maximize at a environment benefit uh can maximize at a environment benefit uh can maximize at a certain level um it's not necessarily uh certain level um it's not necessarily uh certain level um it's not necessarily uh the B with a lower or more stringent K the B with a lower or more stringent K the B with a lower or more stringent K level now I want to talk about a case level now I want to talk about a case level now I want to talk about a case study about the primary secondary and study about the primary secondary and study about the primary secondary and tertiary impacts um again I already talked about impacts um again I already talked about impacts um again I already talked about the definition of primary secondary the definition of primary secondary the definition of primary secondary impact uh so I'll uh skip this impact uh so I'll uh skip this impact uh so I'll uh skip this slide um so we did this study um for slide um so we did this study um for slide um so we did this study um for City level assessment uh we chose San City level assessment uh we chose San City level assessment uh we chose San Francisco um as the case study site um Francisco um as the case study site um Francisco um as the case study site um and um for uh the primary and um for uh the primary and um for uh the primary we look at the the contaminate we look at the the contaminate we look at the the contaminate degradation landscape a change for the degradation landscape a change for the degradation landscape a change for the secondary impact we look at the onsite secondary impact we look at the onsite secondary impact we look at the onsite and the offsite remediation uh disposal and the offsite remediation uh disposal and the offsite remediation uh disposal transportation and etc for the teral transportation and etc for the teral transportation and etc for the teral impact uh we look at the um C impact uh we look at the um C impact uh we look at the um C preparation mity rework uh energy preparation mity rework uh energy preparation mity rework uh energy intensity in the intensity in the intensity in the operation uh in order to capture the ter operation uh in order to capture the ter operation uh in order to capture the ter impact we have to have a um a comparable impact we have to have a um a comparable impact we have to have a um a comparable uh Baseline and um in this case we uh Baseline and um in this case we uh Baseline and um in this case we choose um Green Field sites uh to as a choose um Green Field sites uh to as a choose um Green Field sites uh to as a supplement of contamin Remediation in supplement of contamin Remediation in supplement of contamin Remediation in order to get the net uh greenhouse gas order to get the net uh greenhouse gas order to get the net uh greenhouse gas emission um we we also use the the the emission um we we also use the the the emission um we we also use the the the geot tracker database which by the way geot tracker database which by the way geot tracker database which by the way is a very good database in the US which is a very good database in the US which is a very good database in the US which um through which we can search for um um through which we can search for um um through which we can search for um data for all the contam sites in data for all the contam sites in data for all the contam sites in California so we used that to get data California so we used that to get data California so we used that to get data for the city of San for the city of San for the city of San Francisco um and we also obtained a Francisco um and we also obtained a Francisco um and we also obtained a number of parameters for electricity number of parameters for electricity number of parameters for electricity natural gas usage and fuel usage and so natural gas usage and fuel usage and so natural gas usage and fuel usage and so on uh this uh figure shows um the the on uh this uh figure shows um the the on uh this uh figure shows um the the estimate for individual estimate for individual estimate for individual sites um and this shows the combined sites um and this shows the combined sites um and this shows the combined results as we can see here um results as we can see here um results as we can see here um for this city level assessment what we for this city level assessment what we for this city level assessment what we found was that um the secondary impact found was that um the secondary impact found was that um the secondary impact was quite significant more way more was quite significant more way more was quite significant more way more significant than the primary impact significant than the primary impact significant than the primary impact however um however um however um a surprising result I mean to ourselves a surprising result I mean to ourselves a surprising result I mean to ourselves is that the tertial impact was over one is that the tertial impact was over one is that the tertial impact was over one order of magnitud higher which really order of magnitud higher which really order of magnitud higher which really shows the importance of including the shows the importance of including the shows the importance of including the consequential impact uh of remediation consequential impact uh of remediation consequential impact uh of remediation uh some summary of the findings um the uh some summary of the findings um the uh some summary of the findings um the secondary impact is significant uh secondary impact is significant uh secondary impact is significant uh tertiary impact is even higher um most tertiary impact is even higher um most tertiary impact is even higher um most importantly we found the climate change importantly we found the climate change importantly we found the climate change mitigation potential by doing this mitigation potential by doing this mitigation potential by doing this sustainable remediation operation at the sustainable remediation operation at the sustainable remediation operation at the CT level can reduce the annual emission CT level can reduce the annual emission CT level can reduce the annual emission of greenhouse gas emission by 14% for 70 of greenhouse gas emission by 14% for 70 of greenhouse gas emission by 14% for 70 years which can be really pivotal for years which can be really pivotal for years which can be really pivotal for realizing the the zero emission goal of realizing the the zero emission goal of realizing the the zero emission goal of the city of San Francisco next I want to talk about uh Francisco next I want to talk about uh Francisco next I want to talk about uh um in sustainability assessment for in um in sustainability assessment for in um in sustainability assessment for in individual individual individual s um this we did this study for Mega s um this we did this study for Mega s um this we did this study for Mega site uh in China and uh um we build the site uh in China and uh um we build the site uh in China and uh um we build the sustainability indicator framework um sustainability indicator framework um sustainability indicator framework um with both International uh consensus on with both International uh consensus on with both International uh consensus on various sustainability various sustainability various sustainability considerations but also we included um considerations but also we included um considerations but also we included um country specific considerations in China um we established a system China um we established a system China um we established a system boundary for two different Alternatives boundary for two different Alternatives boundary for two different Alternatives one is soil washing and other is one is soil washing and other is one is soil washing and other is excavation and oversight disposal and and this uh this chart disposal and and this uh this chart disposal and and this uh this chart shows the uh inventory results um here um we are showing uh the results um here um we are showing uh the results um here um we are showing uh the process contribution um as we can see process contribution um as we can see process contribution um as we can see for the different for the different for the different Alternatives um excavation um and Alternatives um excavation um and Alternatives um excavation um and offside disposal um excavation uh um offside disposal um excavation uh um offside disposal um excavation uh um accounts for a accounts for a accounts for a um significant um significant um significant um portion but I mean the majority is um portion but I mean the majority is um portion but I mean the majority is attributed to Hazard with attributed to Hazard with attributed to Hazard with disposal uh for excavation offside disposal uh for excavation offside disposal uh for excavation offside disposal u in this case because some of disposal u in this case because some of disposal u in this case because some of the contaminants uh were removed in so the contaminants uh were removed in so the contaminants uh were removed in so washing and some other were removed in washing and some other were removed in washing and some other were removed in thermodesorption uh we can see the thermodesorption uh we can see the thermodesorption uh we can see the energy consumption uh in Thal dsorption energy consumption uh in Thal dsorption energy consumption uh in Thal dsorption caused a um a a a a big um portion of caused a um a a a a big um portion of caused a um a a a a big um portion of the overall environmental cost of this the overall environmental cost of this the overall environmental cost of this alternative so by doing this um we can alternative so by doing this um we can alternative so by doing this um we can um come up with better Solutions I mean um come up with better Solutions I mean um come up with better Solutions I mean first of all is to select the optimum first of all is to select the optimum first of all is to select the optimum between different Alternatives in other between different Alternatives in other between different Alternatives in other is I mean more recently we are seeing is I mean more recently we are seeing is I mean more recently we are seeing increasing interest in nature based increasing interest in nature based increasing interest in nature based solution um and these B Solutions can solution um and these B Solutions can solution um and these B Solutions can offer uh great social economic and offer uh great social economic and offer uh great social economic and environmental environmental environmental benefits just to give a few examples P benefits just to give a few examples P benefits just to give a few examples P um here in this case um practitioner um here in this case um practitioner um here in this case um practitioner used the constructed weatherland to used the constructed weatherland to used the constructed weatherland to treat the contaminated water at a broni treat the contaminated water at a broni treat the contaminated water at a broni site and in this case uh people are site and in this case uh people are site and in this case uh people are combining landscape design with phal combining landscape design with phal combining landscape design with phal remediation uh and in this case um remediation uh and in this case um remediation uh and in this case um practitioners develop bronfield uh and practitioners develop bronfield uh and practitioners develop bronfield uh and converted into industrial Heritage Park converted into industrial Heritage Park converted into industrial Heritage Park um so these nature based Solutions um so these nature based Solutions um so these nature based Solutions um really offer a lot of benefits but on really offer a lot of benefits but on really offer a lot of benefits but on the other hand uh we also need to look the other hand uh we also need to look the other hand uh we also need to look at the resilience of um different at the resilience of um different at the resilience of um different remedial Alternatives including nature remedial Alternatives including nature remedial Alternatives including nature based Solutions uh we did one study for based Solutions uh we did one study for based Solutions uh we did one study for a um study site in in the San Francisco a um study site in in the San Francisco a um study site in in the San Francisco Bay area and U what we did was to Bay area and U what we did was to Bay area and U what we did was to evaluate a phal remediation system along evaluate a phal remediation system along evaluate a phal remediation system along the coast line it sa a huge cost for the the coast line it sa a huge cost for the the coast line it sa a huge cost for the set owner we estimated that the F remed set owner we estimated that the F remed set owner we estimated that the F remed system can save uh over 90% of the cost system can save uh over 90% of the cost system can save uh over 90% of the cost in comparison with um bio remediation or in comparison with um bio remediation or in comparison with um bio remediation or insute chemical insute chemical insute chemical Foundation however um we also uh want to Foundation however um we also uh want to Foundation however um we also uh want to look at uh the scenario of global change look at uh the scenario of global change look at uh the scenario of global change most specifically uh the rising sea most specifically uh the rising sea most specifically uh the rising sea level uh because the F remediation uh level uh because the F remediation uh level uh because the F remediation uh system in this case case is a long-term system in this case case is a long-term system in this case case is a long-term risk management uh system and what we risk management uh system and what we risk management uh system and what we found was that under uh low or more found was that under uh low or more found was that under uh low or more moderate level of sea level rise um the moderate level of sea level rise um the moderate level of sea level rise um the system has good resilience but under system has good resilience but under system has good resilience but under high sea level rise scenario uh the high sea level rise scenario uh the high sea level rise scenario uh the system can um pass in the tpping point system can um pass in the tpping point system can um pass in the tpping point and fail abruptly uh toward the end I I want to abruptly uh toward the end I I want to abruptly uh toward the end I I want to talk a little bit about the adoption of talk a little bit about the adoption of talk a little bit about the adoption of Greenland remediation both globally and Greenland remediation both globally and Greenland remediation both globally and in in in China um here um I'm showing a um survey China um here um I'm showing a um survey China um here um I'm showing a um survey study that we did um several years ago study that we did um several years ago study that we did um several years ago what we found was that um in developed what we found was that um in developed what we found was that um in developed countries the adoption rate is relative countries the adoption rate is relative countries the adoption rate is relative high and in developing countries is high and in developing countries is high and in developing countries is still relatively still relatively still relatively low um we also did a um survey in China low um we also did a um survey in China low um we also did a um survey in China uh we found that um people um have heard uh we found that um people um have heard uh we found that um people um have heard of or know some thing about the graen of or know some thing about the graen of or know some thing about the graen and sustain liation uh and nearly all and sustain liation uh and nearly all and sustain liation uh and nearly all the um survey participants we survey the the um survey participants we survey the the um survey participants we survey the nearly 300 participants um remediation nearly 300 participants um remediation nearly 300 participants um remediation practitioners in China we found that practitioners in China we found that practitioners in China we found that nearly all of them consider nearly all of them consider nearly all of them consider sustainability necessary uh in becoming sustainability necessary uh in becoming sustainability necessary uh in becoming a criteria in choosing remedies um however um it's not remedies um however um it's not remedies um however um it's not effective uh it's not effectively uh effective uh it's not effectively uh effective uh it's not effectively uh being adopted in China and uh with that being adopted in China and uh with that being adopted in China and uh with that in mind um I led a team um in China to in mind um I led a team um in China to in mind um I led a team um in China to develop the first green and sustainable develop the first green and sustainable develop the first green and sustainable remediation technal standard we started remediation technal standard we started remediation technal standard we started uh to work on it in 2016 uh after four uh to work on it in 2016 uh after four uh to work on it in 2016 uh after four years we were able to uh publish it in years we were able to uh publish it in years we were able to uh publish it in 2020 and this is a screenshot of the 2020 and this is a screenshot of the 2020 and this is a screenshot of the final uh technal standard um so for the future um to in standard um so for the future um to in standard um so for the future um to in order to promote green and sustainable order to promote green and sustainable order to promote green and sustainable remediation we think we need to educate remediation we think we need to educate remediation we think we need to educate um both college students and um both college students and um both college students and professionals and the general professionals and the general professionals and the general public and as for technology development public and as for technology development public and as for technology development we needed to conduct more research on we needed to conduct more research on we needed to conduct more research on Institute remediation which tended to Institute remediation which tended to Institute remediation which tended to have a smaller environment for the print have a smaller environment for the print have a smaller environment for the print we need to minimize energy and material we need to minimize energy and material we need to minimize energy and material consumption develop Innovative green consumption develop Innovative green consumption develop Innovative green remediate materials and probably uh we remediate materials and probably uh we remediate materials and probably uh we also need to promote the adoption of also need to promote the adoption of also need to promote the adoption of monit natural tation techniques uh I think I probably have techniques uh I think I probably have techniques uh I think I probably have like one minute left I want to give a like one minute left I want to give a like one minute left I want to give a short introduction of inap the short introduction of inap the short introduction of inap the international Network on soil pollution international Network on soil pollution international Network on soil pollution um inap um aims to um facilitate the um inap um aims to um facilitate the um inap um aims to um facilitate the global agenda on stoping soil pollution global agenda on stoping soil pollution global agenda on stoping soil pollution and achieving the global goal of zero and achieving the global goal of zero and achieving the global goal of zero pollution uh we want to work with our pollution uh we want to work with our pollution uh we want to work with our members to improve knowledge on the full members to improve knowledge on the full members to improve knowledge on the full cycle of soil pollution for assessment cycle of soil pollution for assessment cycle of soil pollution for assessment to remediation as well as on the effect to remediation as well as on the effect to remediation as well as on the effect on environmental and human health and on environmental and human health and on environmental and human health and the provision of so ecosystem functions the provision of so ecosystem functions the provision of so ecosystem functions and services we aim to strengthen and services we aim to strengthen and services we aim to strengthen technical capacities and the legislative technical capacities and the legislative technical capacities and the legislative framework for the prevention of framework for the prevention of framework for the prevention of pollution and to promote the exchange of pollution and to promote the exchange of pollution and to promote the exchange of experiences and Technologies for experiences and Technologies for experiences and Technologies for sustainable management and Remediation sustainable management and Remediation sustainable management and Remediation of poed soil and on this uh slide I also of poed soil and on this uh slide I also of poed soil and on this uh slide I also have a barcode um you're welcome to scan have a barcode um you're welcome to scan have a barcode um you're welcome to scan the QR code um to join inside but the QR code um to join inside but the QR code um to join inside but there's a very short survey form um once there's a very short survey form um once there's a very short survey form um once you submit that survey form you will um you submit that survey form you will um you submit that survey form you will um automatically become a member of insa automatically become a member of insa automatically become a member of insa you will receive regular update on insa you will receive regular update on insa you will receive regular update on insa activities and also we send out newars activities and also we send out newars activities and also we send out newars about global um activities on soil about global um activities on soil about global um activities on soil pollution um and also we regularly pollution um and also we regularly pollution um and also we regularly organiz organiz organiz seminars conferences and we also have seminars conferences and we also have seminars conferences and we also have seven working groups which we plan to seven working groups which we plan to seven working groups which we plan to work on a number of uh technical work on a number of uh technical work on a number of uh technical guidelines standard operating procedures guidelines standard operating procedures guidelines standard operating procedures and Etc uh you're welcome to join inap and Etc uh you're welcome to join inap and Etc uh you're welcome to join inap and join our working groups to and join our working groups to and join our working groups to contribute to This Global effort thank contribute to This Global effort thank contribute to This Global effort thank you very you very you very much well no thanks very much thanks to much well no thanks very much thanks to much well no thanks very much thanks to you Dave for absolutely fascinating talk you Dave for absolutely fascinating talk you Dave for absolutely fascinating talk particularly introducing um the concepts particularly introducing um the concepts particularly introducing um the concepts of sustainable and green remediation of sustainable and green remediation of sustainable and green remediation I've learned quite a lot actually doing I've learned quite a lot actually doing I've learned quite a lot actually doing that and really great to see all those that and really great to see all those that and really great to see all those case studies and you know particularly case studies and you know particularly case studies and you know particularly those sort of tertiary impacts as well those sort of tertiary impacts as well those sort of tertiary impacts as well doing the life cycle analysis you don't doing the life cycle analysis you don't doing the life cycle analysis you don't you know I tend to think at the site you know I tend to think at the site you know I tend to think at the site level but actually looking beyond that level but actually looking beyond that level but actually looking beyond that it's really really fascinating so uh it's really really fascinating so uh it's really really fascinating so uh yeah thanks very much um and so i' just yeah thanks very much um and so i' just yeah thanks very much um and so i' just like to remind you all that we'll be um like to remind you all that we'll be um like to remind you all that we'll be um uh be able to ask questions at the end uh be able to ask questions at the end uh be able to ask questions at the end so after Paul's talk so if You' got any so after Paul's talk so if You' got any so after Paul's talk so if You' got any questions for da please type them in the questions for da please type them in the questions for da please type them in the question box and I'll come back to them question box and I'll come back to them question box and I'll come back to them um at the end after Paul has finished um at the end after Paul has finished um at the end after Paul has finished his talk so on to our next speaker um his talk so on to our next speaker um his talk so on to our next speaker um who's Dr Paul nathanel and he's a who's Dr Paul nathanel and he's a who's Dr Paul nathanel and he's a specialist in land condition and a suit specialist in land condition and a suit specialist in land condition and a suit to be qualified person under the nqms to be qualified person under the nqms to be qualified person under the nqms and he's also a chartered and he's also a chartered and he's also a chartered geologist he's director at the land geologist he's director at the land geologist he's director at the land quality management limited and this quality management limited and this quality management limited and this company offers a specialist services in company offers a specialist services in company offers a specialist services in the assessment and Remediation of the assessment and Remediation of the assessment and Remediation of contaminated sites contaminated sites contaminated sites um he's got a long-standing interest in um he's got a long-standing interest in um he's got a long-standing interest in improving Professional Standards so that improving Professional Standards so that improving Professional Standards so that links quite nicely today's uh last slide links quite nicely today's uh last slide links quite nicely today's uh last slide on education but also particularly on education but also particularly on education but also particularly Professional Standards in in Professional Standards in in Professional Standards in in specifically in land contamination risk specifically in land contamination risk specifically in land contamination risk management and sustainable Brownfield management and sustainable Brownfield management and sustainable Brownfield regeneration uh he's consulted on and regeneration uh he's consulted on and regeneration uh he's consulted on and provided expert evidence for many provided expert evidence for many provided expert evidence for many landfill Redevelopment projects and landfill Redevelopment projects and landfill Redevelopment projects and finally he'd led the team who write finally he'd led the team who write finally he'd led the team who write wrote the iso standard um on sustainable wrote the iso standard um on sustainable wrote the iso standard um on sustainable remediation so really uh delighted to remediation so really uh delighted to remediation so really uh delighted to welcome you Paul and over to you thanks welcome you Paul and over to you thanks welcome you Paul and over to you thanks very much thank you very much indeed um very much thank you very much indeed um very much thank you very much indeed um I think we're going to go from the I think we're going to go from the I think we're going to go from the global and the city scale down to the global and the city scale down to the global and the city scale down to the site scale in what I'm going to talk site scale in what I'm going to talk site scale in what I'm going to talk about uh thank you very much for the about uh thank you very much for the about uh thank you very much for the invitation uh I'm delighted that as a invitation uh I'm delighted that as a invitation uh I'm delighted that as a member of the society uh to see soil and member of the society uh to see soil and member of the society uh to see soil and Remediation being given the the kind of Remediation being given the the kind of Remediation being given the the kind of profile uh that this webinar is giving profile uh that this webinar is giving profile uh that this webinar is giving it um I have a broad background um spent 20 um I have a broad background um spent 20 um I have a broad background um spent 20 25 years as an academic um ending up as 25 years as an academic um ending up as 25 years as an academic um ending up as the professor of engineering geology at the professor of engineering geology at the professor of engineering geology at the University of Nottingham um working the University of Nottingham um working the University of Nottingham um working with the Geological Survey I run a with the Geological Survey I run a with the Geological Survey I run a European Brownfield Network called cavan European Brownfield Network called cavan European Brownfield Network called cavan and next week I am in Melbourne giving and next week I am in Melbourne giving and next week I am in Melbourne giving the closing pler at the Eco Forum sustr the closing pler at the Eco Forum sustr the closing pler at the Eco Forum sustr the international sustainable the international sustainable the international sustainable remediation conference uh in Melbourne remediation conference uh in Melbourne remediation conference uh in Melbourne on Thursday evening Australia austa time on Thursday evening Australia austa time on Thursday evening Australia austa time um that's lqm we do all kind of cool um that's lqm we do all kind of cool um that's lqm we do all kind of cool stuff that's not what you're here to stuff that's not what you're here to stuff that's not what you're here to listen to the process of land listen to the process of land listen to the process of land contamination risk contamination risk contamination risk management involves an initial stage of management involves an initial stage of management involves an initial stage of risk assessment a diagnosis if you will risk assessment a diagnosis if you will risk assessment a diagnosis if you will Houston we have a problem stage two is Houston we have a problem stage two is Houston we have a problem stage two is the process of prescribing a solution so the process of prescribing a solution so the process of prescribing a solution so identifying feasible options evaluating identifying feasible options evaluating identifying feasible options evaluating them choosing and then stage three is them choosing and then stage three is them choosing and then stage three is the actual remediation itself it's the the actual remediation itself it's the the actual remediation itself it's the operation or The Taking of the medicine operation or The Taking of the medicine operation or The Taking of the medicine where you develop a remediation strategy where you develop a remediation strategy where you develop a remediation strategy implement it and provide a verification implement it and provide a verification implement it and provide a verification report that everything went hunky dorly report that everything went hunky dorly report that everything went hunky dorly the structure is the structure of the structure is the structure of the structure is the structure of guidance that is followed in the United guidance that is followed in the United guidance that is followed in the United Kingdom um and the link to that is at Kingdom um and the link to that is at Kingdom um and the link to that is at the bottom of my the bottom of my the bottom of my slide I've highlighted a um in Gold slide I've highlighted a um in Gold slide I've highlighted a um in Gold where sustainable remediation comes in where sustainable remediation comes in where sustainable remediation comes in and in green where Greening your and in green where Greening your and in green where Greening your remediation comes in so we've already remediation comes in so we've already remediation comes in so we've already established that there is a problem the established that there is a problem the established that there is a problem the risk assessment tells you that there is risk assessment tells you that there is risk assessment tells you that there is a need to a need to a need to remediate how am I going to remediate remediate how am I going to remediate remediate how am I going to remediate well I have to have a feasible option well I have to have a feasible option well I have to have a feasible option and then I can choose how I'm going to and then I can choose how I'm going to and then I can choose how I'm going to evaluate my short list of options evaluate my short list of options evaluate my short list of options I might look at the cheapest the I might look at the cheapest the I might look at the cheapest the quickest or I can look at the most U quickest or I can look at the most U quickest or I can look at the most U most sustainable of my um shortlisted most sustainable of my um shortlisted most sustainable of my um shortlisted options and then I need to choose that options and then I need to choose that options and then I need to choose that option having chosen that option you option having chosen that option you option having chosen that option you then enter into a process of Designing then enter into a process of Designing then enter into a process of Designing what you're going to do getting the what you're going to do getting the what you're going to do getting the permits and everything else and at that permits and everything else and at that permits and everything else and at that point you can look at Greening your point you can look at Greening your point you can look at Greening your remediation strategy and there's some remediation strategy and there's some remediation strategy and there's some excellent guidance from the US excellent guidance from the US excellent guidance from the US Environmental Protection Agency on how Environmental Protection Agency on how Environmental Protection Agency on how to green your remediation strategy along to green your remediation strategy along to green your remediation strategy along side that you can also value engineer it side that you can also value engineer it side that you can also value engineer it you can look at where the money is being you can look at where the money is being you can look at where the money is being spent and when it is being spent and see spent and when it is being spent and see spent and when it is being spent and see if you can achieve the same thing but if you can achieve the same thing but if you can achieve the same thing but without spending that level of money so without spending that level of money so without spending that level of money so I'm drawing a very big difference I'm drawing a very big difference I'm drawing a very big difference between sustainable remediation at the between sustainable remediation at the between sustainable remediation at the options appraisal stage and then options appraisal stage and then options appraisal stage and then Greening The Chosen option at the Greening The Chosen option at the Greening The Chosen option at the detailed development and design detailed development and design detailed development and design stage the international um standards stage the international um standards stage the international um standards organization definition um involves organization definition um involves organization definition um involves recognizing the need to manage your risk recognizing the need to manage your risk recognizing the need to manage your risk demonstrably breaking that Source demonstrably breaking that Source demonstrably breaking that Source pathway receptor pathway receptor pathway receptor relationship and the way that we relationship and the way that we relationship and the way that we describe that as sustainable remediation describe that as sustainable remediation describe that as sustainable remediation I seem to there we go um is by managing I seem to there we go um is by managing I seem to there we go um is by managing that risk by either eliminating ating or that risk by either eliminating ating or that risk by either eliminating ating or controlling controlling controlling it in a safe and timely manner that's it in a safe and timely manner that's it in a safe and timely manner that's just good just good just good remediation what makes it sustainable is remediation what makes it sustainable is remediation what makes it sustainable is balancing the environmental the social balancing the environmental the social balancing the environmental the social and the economic value of the work you and the economic value of the work you and the economic value of the work you cannot maximize all three that's cannot maximize all three that's cannot maximize all three that's impossible um but you're looking for a impossible um but you're looking for a impossible um but you're looking for a sweet sweet sweet spot and the definition of unacceptable spot and the definition of unacceptable spot and the definition of unacceptable risk is a matter for the law the risk is a matter for the law the risk is a matter for the law the government the jurisdiction of the area government the jurisdiction of the area government the jurisdiction of the area that your site sits that your site sits that your site sits in the international standard which has in the international standard which has in the international standard which has also been adopted as a British and also been adopted as a British and also been adopted as a British and Australian standard now provides a Australian standard now provides a Australian standard now provides a standard methodology for identifying the standard methodology for identifying the standard methodology for identifying the most sustainable option and defines most sustainable option and defines most sustainable option and defines words so everybody means the same thing words so everybody means the same thing words so everybody means the same thing when they use a particular when they use a particular when they use a particular word in philosophical terms we're word in philosophical terms we're word in philosophical terms we're looking at the relative sustainability looking at the relative sustainability looking at the relative sustainability of different courses of action of of different courses of action of of different courses of action of different remediation different remediation different remediation strategies and we recognize the strategies and we recognize the strategies and we recognize the importance of promoting sustainable importance of promoting sustainable importance of promoting sustainable remediation early in the planning and uh remediation early in the planning and uh remediation early in the planning and uh stage of a project and then later on in stage of a project and then later on in stage of a project and then later on in the implementation stage as the implementation stage as the implementation stage as well what the standard does not seek to well what the standard does not seek to well what the standard does not seek to do is tell you how you must do the do is tell you how you must do the do is tell you how you must do the assessment assessment assessment life cycle analysis is a really life cycle analysis is a really life cycle analysis is a really sophisticated and expensive way of sophisticated and expensive way of sophisticated and expensive way of looking at things and if you need to do looking at things and if you need to do looking at things and if you need to do that then great but do it as simply as that then great but do it as simply as that then great but do it as simply as possible famous English monk oam talked possible famous English monk oam talked possible famous English monk oam talked about if you've got two alternative about if you've got two alternative about if you've got two alternative courses of action or two alternative courses of action or two alternative courses of action or two alternative Solutions choose the simpler Solutions choose the simpler Solutions choose the simpler one it doesn't tell you what indicators one it doesn't tell you what indicators one it doesn't tell you what indicators you must use or how to measure them you must use or how to measure them you must use or how to measure them and it doesn't delve into the green or and it doesn't delve into the green or and it doesn't delve into the green or green and sustainable remediation um green and sustainable remediation um green and sustainable remediation um domain for the reason that I've shown on domain for the reason that I've shown on domain for the reason that I've shown on the previous the previous the previous slide slide slide so where does the iso come in it follows so where does the iso come in it follows so where does the iso come in it follows on from risk assessment the risk on from risk assessment the risk on from risk assessment the risk assessment says we need to do assessment says we need to do assessment says we need to do something it provides a standard something it provides a standard something it provides a standard methodology and it provides advice on methodology and it provides advice on methodology and it provides advice on identifying the relative sustainability identifying the relative sustainability identifying the relative sustainability of different of different of different options it does not mean you do less options it does not mean you do less options it does not mean you do less remediation it does not prescribe it remediation it does not prescribe it remediation it does not prescribe it advises and advises and advises and encourages so the sustainable encourages so the sustainable encourages so the sustainable remediation Triathlon in the year before remediation Triathlon in the year before remediation Triathlon in the year before of the next Olympics in Paris um there of the next Olympics in Paris um there of the next Olympics in Paris um there are three competitions three events are three competitions three events are three competitions three events going on at the same time for going on at the same time for going on at the same time for sustainability to have any meaning you sustainability to have any meaning you sustainability to have any meaning you need to look at the Environmental the need to look at the Environmental the need to look at the Environmental the economic and the economic and the economic and the social pillars so what you're looking social pillars so what you're looking social pillars so what you're looking for is greener for is greener for is greener remediation cheaper remediation cheaper remediation cheaper remediation and more socially acceptable remediation and more socially acceptable remediation and more socially acceptable more popular and I know that's not how more popular and I know that's not how more popular and I know that's not how you spell it which is why I put my e in you spell it which is why I put my e in you spell it which is why I put my e in italics but I wanted to be poetic and italics but I wanted to be poetic and italics but I wanted to be poetic and what we're looking for is to be here what we're looking for is to be here what we're looking for is to be here that's The Sweet Spot and you can see that's The Sweet Spot and you can see that's The Sweet Spot and you can see that there is a compromise there is an that there is a compromise there is an that there is a compromise there is an optimization across those three optimization across those three optimization across those three domains now I'm a big fan of Humpty domains now I'm a big fan of Humpty domains now I'm a big fan of Humpty Dumpty leis Carrol in through the Dumpty leis Carrol in through the Dumpty leis Carrol in through the Looking Glass quotes Humpty Dumpty who Looking Glass quotes Humpty Dumpty who Looking Glass quotes Humpty Dumpty who says when I use a word it means just says when I use a word it means just says when I use a word it means just what I choose it to mean neither more what I choose it to mean neither more what I choose it to mean neither more nor less the question is which is to be nor less the question is which is to be nor less the question is which is to be Master that's all and in this space Master that's all and in this space Master that's all and in this space words really matter because if we use words really matter because if we use words really matter because if we use the the same word but mean different the the same word but mean different the the same word but mean different things by it we will not be things by it we will not be things by it we will not be communicating very communicating very communicating very well so I want to draw the difference well so I want to draw the difference well so I want to draw the difference between between between sustainability and sustainable and I'm sustainability and sustainable and I'm sustainability and sustainable and I'm talking today about sustainable talking today about sustainable talking today about sustainable remediation sustainability is a noun remediation sustainability is a noun remediation sustainability is a noun it's in the ability to be maintained at it's in the ability to be maintained at it's in the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or a certain rate or a certain rate or level in Natural Earth system science level in Natural Earth system science level in Natural Earth system science type of thinking it's about avoiding the type of thinking it's about avoiding the type of thinking it's about avoiding the depletion of natural resources and the depletion of natural resources and the depletion of natural resources and the balance we're trying to maintain is an balance we're trying to maintain is an balance we're trying to maintain is an ecological ecological ecological balance IT addresses the concept of the balance IT addresses the concept of the balance IT addresses the concept of the ongoing capability of the planet to ongoing capability of the planet to ongoing capability of the planet to maintain life not not just human life maintain life not not just human life maintain life not not just human life but all but all but all life sustainable is an adjective it life sustainable is an adjective it life sustainable is an adjective it describes something the bruntland describes something the bruntland describes something the bruntland definition talks about sustain aable definition talks about sustain aable definition talks about sustain aable development here we are talking about development here we are talking about development here we are talking about sustainable remediation so working with the ISO remediation so working with the ISO remediation so working with the ISO definition how are we going to put that definition how are we going to put that definition how are we going to put that into operational practice to help us into operational practice to help us into operational practice to help us make make make decisions well in decisions well in decisions well in remediation what you must do is remediation what you must do is remediation what you must do is eliminate or control the risks and do eliminate or control the risks and do eliminate or control the risks and do that in a safe and timely manner that in a safe and timely manner that in a safe and timely manner what we want is to do what we want is to do what we want is to do that while looking at the environmental that while looking at the environmental that while looking at the environmental the social and the economic the social and the economic the social and the economic Dimensions so you have to do that Dimensions so you have to do that Dimensions so you have to do that otherwise it's not otherwise it's not otherwise it's not remediation and it would be good if we remediation and it would be good if we remediation and it would be good if we did it in this way sorry I got diverted by a flashing way sorry I got diverted by a flashing way sorry I got diverted by a flashing chat box chat box chat box um I want to look at what might be um I want to look at what might be um I want to look at what might be unsustainable remediation because that unsustainable remediation because that unsustainable remediation because that might help us when we think about what might help us when we think about what might help us when we think about what might be sustainable remediation so might be sustainable remediation so might be sustainable remediation so unsustainable remediation is really unsustainable remediation is really unsustainable remediation is really expensive just costs more than we can expensive just costs more than we can expensive just costs more than we can afford it upsets people or it leaves afford it upsets people or it leaves afford it upsets people or it leaves behind a damaged environment and I can behind a damaged environment and I can behind a damaged environment and I can think of examples of all three and maybe think of examples of all three and maybe think of examples of all three and maybe in questions we can bring that out the in questions we can bring that out the in questions we can bring that out the other type of UN sustainable remediation other type of UN sustainable remediation other type of UN sustainable remediation is failed remediation that just didn't is failed remediation that just didn't is failed remediation that just didn't do the job it didn't remove or control do the job it didn't remove or control do the job it didn't remove or control the risk the risk the risk or it left behind so much or it left behind so much or it left behind so much uncertainty that we're not sure if the uncertainty that we're not sure if the uncertainty that we're not sure if the risk was managed and I would argue that risk was managed and I would argue that risk was managed and I would argue that most fighter remediation would leave most fighter remediation would leave most fighter remediation would leave behind enough residual uncertainty to behind enough residual uncertainty to behind enough residual uncertainty to question whether it succeeded or not question whether it succeeded or not question whether it succeeded or not there you go there's a challenge for there you go there's a challenge for there you go there's a challenge for discuss discussion in a minute this is discuss discussion in a minute this is discuss discussion in a minute this is the structure of the iso standard it's the structure of the iso standard it's the structure of the iso standard it's only 24 pages only 24 pages only 24 pages long its scope every standard tells you long its scope every standard tells you long its scope every standard tells you what it's what it's what it's about and it's about the about and it's about the about and it's about the relative the comparison between relative the comparison between relative the comparison between alternative remediation strategies so some very important strategies so some very important strategies so some very important definitions an indic definitions an indic definitions an indic data is a data is a data is a characteristic that allows us to compare characteristic that allows us to compare characteristic that allows us to compare two or three more alternative two or three more alternative two or three more alternative remediation strategies and say this remediation strategies and say this remediation strategies and say this strategy is better than this one on the strategy is better than this one on the strategy is better than this one on the basis of this indicator it could be basis of this indicator it could be basis of this indicator it could be carbon footprint it could be jobs carbon footprint it could be jobs carbon footprint it could be jobs created it could be the net present created it could be the net present created it could be the net present value of the overall remediation value of the overall remediation value of the overall remediation cost the metric is how you're going to cost the metric is how you're going to cost the metric is how you're going to measure that indicator so if you have something that doesn't so if you have something that doesn't so if you have something that doesn't separate out doesn't differentiate two separate out doesn't differentiate two separate out doesn't differentiate two or more options don't waste your time or more options don't waste your time or more options don't waste your time trying to measure it because it's not trying to measure it because it's not trying to measure it because it's not going to help you the governance context under which you the governance context under which you the governance context under which these decisions take place are is really these decisions take place are is really these decisions take place are is really important the legal context the important the legal context the important the legal context the legislation the law is primary you have legislation the law is primary you have legislation the law is primary you have to have remediation that complies with to have remediation that complies with to have remediation that complies with the the the law then you have institutional missions law then you have institutional missions law then you have institutional missions in commercial terms the ESG policy of an in commercial terms the ESG policy of an in commercial terms the ESG policy of an organization recognizing that what might organization recognizing that what might organization recognizing that what might work in one part of the world may not work in one part of the world may not work in one part of the world may not work in work in work in another and that the technical outcome another and that the technical outcome another and that the technical outcome has to be acceptable to public has to be acceptable to public has to be acceptable to public authorities and the authorities and the authorities and the public keep it simple and the standard public keep it simple and the standard public keep it simple and the standard says that in quite strong terms the says that in quite strong terms the says that in quite strong terms the simplest is qualitative simplest is qualitative simplest is qualitative evaluation I I'm not a very great Runner evaluation I I'm not a very great Runner evaluation I I'm not a very great Runner but I really enjoyed watching Usain Bolt but I really enjoyed watching Usain Bolt but I really enjoyed watching Usain Bolt the world's fastest man over 100 meters the world's fastest man over 100 meters the world's fastest man over 100 meters Win race after race after race you Win race after race after race you Win race after race after race you didn't need a photo finish to see that didn't need a photo finish to see that didn't need a photo finish to see that he had won the race there was enough gap he had won the race there was enough gap he had won the race there was enough gap between him and the second place person between him and the second place person between him and the second place person that you same bot was the C clear winner that you same bot was the C clear winner that you same bot was the C clear winner keep it keep it keep it simple you might need to go to a simple you might need to go to a simple you might need to go to a semi-quantitative approach using things semi-quantitative approach using things semi-quantitative approach using things like pairwise comparison and like pairwise comparison and like pairwise comparison and multicriteria multicriteria multicriteria Analysis very very rarely do you need to Analysis very very rarely do you need to Analysis very very rarely do you need to go to a fully cost benefit analysis or a go to a fully cost benefit analysis or a go to a fully cost benefit analysis or a full life cycle uh assessment those are full life cycle uh assessment those are full life cycle uh assessment those are resource intensive time consuming resource intensive time consuming resource intensive time consuming expensive steps that don't help most of expensive steps that don't help most of expensive steps that don't help most of the the the time so a simple time so a simple time so a simple example we have a heating fuel delivery example we have a heating fuel delivery example we have a heating fuel delivery to a house that went wrong and the fuel to a house that went wrong and the fuel to a house that went wrong and the fuel was spilt it's polluted the groundwater was spilt it's polluted the groundwater was spilt it's polluted the groundwater in a shallow sand and gravel aquifer the in a shallow sand and gravel aquifer the in a shallow sand and gravel aquifer the water table is 3 MERS depth and the free water table is 3 MERS depth and the free water table is 3 MERS depth and the free product has already been recovered so product has already been recovered so product has already been recovered so we're really worrying about what's we're really worrying about what's we're really worrying about what's dissolved in the ground dissolved in the ground dissolved in the ground water so the risk assessment says we've water so the risk assessment says we've water so the risk assessment says we've got contamination in the ground ground got contamination in the ground ground got contamination in the ground ground water and we need to do something about water and we need to do something about water and we need to do something about it the shortlisted feasible options are it the shortlisted feasible options are it the shortlisted feasible options are air sparing biosparging or monitored air sparing biosparging or monitored air sparing biosparging or monitored natural attenuation so we're going to natural attenuation so we're going to natural attenuation so we're going to compare those three and see which is the compare those three and see which is the compare those three and see which is the most sustainable shortlisted most sustainable shortlisted most sustainable shortlisted option so I could do pairwise comparison option so I could do pairwise comparison option so I could do pairwise comparison where I say option comparing option b where I say option comparing option b where I say option comparing option b against option A and you can say B is against option A and you can say B is against option A and you can say B is three times more cost cost effective three times more cost cost effective three times more cost cost effective than a and so on so we have a number of than a and so on so we have a number of than a and so on so we have a number of Dimensions we have cost Dimensions we have cost Dimensions we have cost Effectiveness uh we have social Effectiveness uh we have social Effectiveness uh we have social acceptability oops up here looking at four dimensions now we here looking at four dimensions now we here looking at four dimensions now we have the have the have the economic we have the economic we have the economic we have the social we have the social we have the social we have the environmental and because I've got two environmental and because I've got two environmental and because I've got two matrices with four half I had a fourth matrices with four half I had a fourth matrices with four half I had a fourth bit so over bit so over bit so over here I had the ease with which you can here I had the ease with which you can here I had the ease with which you can verify that the remediation verify that the remediation verify that the remediation worked and what we've done on here and worked and what we've done on here and worked and what we've done on here and this is an exercise I've done with this is an exercise I've done with this is an exercise I've done with groups both professionals and Master's groups both professionals and Master's groups both professionals and Master's level students we've compared those level students we've compared those level students we've compared those three shortlisted three shortlisted three shortlisted options and what we see that there is an options and what we see that there is an options and what we see that there is an obvious obvious obvious winner winner winner of those three options monitored natural of those three options monitored natural of those three options monitored natural attenuation comes out time and again as attenuation comes out time and again as attenuation comes out time and again as being better than air sparging and being better than air sparging and being better than air sparging and biosparging so under cost Effectiveness biosparging so under cost Effectiveness biosparging so under cost Effectiveness m& is the cheapest it's the most m& is the cheapest it's the most m& is the cheapest it's the most socially acceptable it has the lowest socially acceptable it has the lowest socially acceptable it has the lowest environmental impact it is however environmental impact it is however environmental impact it is however because it's a long-term process the one because it's a long-term process the one because it's a long-term process the one that would lose out on the ease of that would lose out on the ease of that would lose out on the ease of verification so we have three gold verification so we have three gold verification so we have three gold medals to m&a and one to Air sparging medals to m&a and one to Air sparging medals to m&a and one to Air sparging and therefore on that basis m&a comes and therefore on that basis m&a comes and therefore on that basis m&a comes top of the medal top of the medal top of the medal table so a table so a table so a checklist if somebody claims they are checklist if somebody claims they are checklist if somebody claims they are doing sustainable remediation and you'll doing sustainable remediation and you'll doing sustainable remediation and you'll see that in papers and advertisements see that in papers and advertisements see that in papers and advertisements and so on check have they thought about and so on check have they thought about and so on check have they thought about all three all three all three dimensions or do they simply mean dimensions or do they simply mean dimensions or do they simply mean something is quite trivial or only a something is quite trivial or only a something is quite trivial or only a partial answer partial answer partial answer answer claiming that I'm using renewable answer claiming that I'm using renewable answer claiming that I'm using renewable energy is good but it doesn't make it energy is good but it doesn't make it energy is good but it doesn't make it sustainable it's a little bit cheaper is sustainable it's a little bit cheaper is sustainable it's a little bit cheaper is good but it doesn't make it good but it doesn't make it good but it doesn't make it sustainable we reduce the number of sustainable we reduce the number of sustainable we reduce the number of times we drove to the site in a diesel times we drove to the site in a diesel times we drove to the site in a diesel powered vehicle is good but it doesn't powered vehicle is good but it doesn't powered vehicle is good but it doesn't make it sustainable we produce less make it sustainable we produce less make it sustainable we produce less waste we invited the community in for an waste we invited the community in for an waste we invited the community in for an open day to look at open day to look at open day to look at what we were doing and be transparent what we were doing and be transparent what we were doing and be transparent great idea it doesn't make it great idea it doesn't make it great idea it doesn't make it sustainable it's bio remediation and bio sustainable it's bio remediation and bio sustainable it's bio remediation and bio must be a good thing well it may be but must be a good thing well it may be but must be a good thing well it may be but it doesn't make it sustainable so this is a checklist that sustainable so this is a checklist that sustainable so this is a checklist that um the um the team in Surf Australia New um the um the team in Surf Australia New um the um the team in Surf Australia New Zealand of which I'm a member came up Zealand of which I'm a member came up Zealand of which I'm a member came up with a checklist for using the with a checklist for using the with a checklist for using the international standard which is also an international standard which is also an international standard which is also an Australian standard on a site make sure Australian standard on a site make sure Australian standard on a site make sure that you've got clear objectives you end that you've got clear objectives you end that you've got clear objectives you end up with a short list of things that up with a short list of things that up with a short list of things that could do the could do the could do the job you then agree the indicators for job you then agree the indicators for job you then agree the indicators for those Technologies at that those Technologies at that those Technologies at that site and that those indicators work for site and that those indicators work for site and that those indicators work for a combination of Technologies into a a combination of Technologies into a a combination of Technologies into a strategy you look at your three strategy you look at your three strategy you look at your three dimensions come out with your overall dimensions come out with your overall dimensions come out with your overall appraisal if there is a clear appraisal if there is a clear appraisal if there is a clear winner at a simple level winner at a simple level winner at a simple level great document the process how did you great document the process how did you great document the process how did you end up with your preferred option and end up with your preferred option and end up with your preferred option and then go on to stage three and develop then go on to stage three and develop then go on to stage three and develop the detail green your remediation value the detail green your remediation value the detail green your remediation value engineer it design it implement it engineer it design it implement it engineer it design it implement it verify it be careful be aware that no it be careful be aware that no it be careful be aware that no technology is sustainable it's a site technology is sustainable it's a site technology is sustainable it's a site specific specific specific decision be careful of people who just decision be careful of people who just decision be careful of people who just use sustainable as a flavoring because use sustainable as a flavoring because use sustainable as a flavoring because it sounds it sounds it sounds better be careful that most of the work better be careful that most of the work better be careful that most of the work is done by people who have a science or is done by people who have a science or is done by people who have a science or an engineering background not an an engineering background not an an engineering background not an anthropology social uh type of anthropology social uh type of anthropology social uh type of background be careful that local background be careful that local background be careful that local people's views what we call the Social people's views what we call the Social people's views what we call the Social license to operate is difficult to license to operate is difficult to license to operate is difficult to obtain difficult to maintain and very obtain difficult to maintain and very obtain difficult to maintain and very easy to lose so penultimate slide before we move lose so penultimate slide before we move lose so penultimate slide before we move on to the exciting part of the webinar on to the exciting part of the webinar on to the exciting part of the webinar which is your chance to ask us questions which is your chance to ask us questions which is your chance to ask us questions um I hope I've given you an insight into um I hope I've given you an insight into um I hope I've given you an insight into how to make this how to make this how to make this operational there is more that can be operational there is more that can be operational there is more that can be done things that I'm working on at the done things that I'm working on at the done things that I'm working on at the moment are carbon footprinting different moment are carbon footprinting different moment are carbon footprinting different remediation Technologies just finished remediation Technologies just finished remediation Technologies just finished that work hopefully it'll be published that work hopefully it'll be published that work hopefully it'll be published in the next couple of months and then in the next couple of months and then in the next couple of months and then looking at both climate change and the looking at both climate change and the looking at both climate change and the extreme weather events and how they extreme weather events and how they extreme weather events and how they impact on option appraisal and on the impact on option appraisal and on the impact on option appraisal and on the implementation of remediation strategies implementation of remediation strategies implementation of remediation strategies and this is work that we've done for the and this is work that we've done for the and this is work that we've done for the environment agency here in the UK and environment agency here in the UK and environment agency here in the UK and that I'll be talking about next week in that I'll be talking about next week in that I'll be talking about next week in Melbourne in the closing plenary of the Melbourne in the closing plenary of the Melbourne in the closing plenary of the Su sustr Su sustr Su sustr conference now that's on the remediation conference now that's on the remediation conference now that's on the remediation side on the the risk assessment side if side on the the risk assessment side if side on the the risk assessment side if we knew the risks better so doing a we knew the risks better so doing a we knew the risks better so doing a better preliminary risk assessment a better preliminary risk assessment a better preliminary risk assessment a more accurate quantitative risk more accurate quantitative risk more accurate quantitative risk assessment and better constraining the assessment and better constraining the assessment and better constraining the extent and the depth of extent and the depth of extent and the depth of remediation then we would make sure that remediation then we would make sure that remediation then we would make sure that we were doing as much remediation that we were doing as much remediation that we were doing as much remediation that was needed and no was needed and no was needed and no more and we could choose the most more and we could choose the most more and we could choose the most sustainable way to do the right amount sustainable way to do the right amount sustainable way to do the right amount neither too much nor too little neither too much nor too little neither too much nor too little remediation so with that I'm going to remediation so with that I'm going to remediation so with that I'm going to thank the society again for inviting me thank the society again for inviting me thank the society again for inviting me to be part of this webinar and and back to be part of this webinar and and back to be part of this webinar and and back and hopefully get some questions from and hopefully get some questions from and hopefully get some questions from you that's really great thanks very much you that's really great thanks very much you that's really great thanks very much Paul for taking us through that um quite Paul for taking us through that um quite Paul for taking us through that um quite I'm sure it took a very long time to I'm sure it took a very long time to I'm sure it took a very long time to come up with the standard I've got a come up with the standard I've got a come up with the standard I've got a couple of questions about that um this couple of questions about that um this couple of questions about that um this obviously is the Q&A session so both um obviously is the Q&A session so both um obviously is the Q&A session so both um Paul and Dave are able to um answer your Paul and Dave are able to um answer your Paul and Dave are able to um answer your questions so do submit them uh please questions so do submit them uh please questions so do submit them uh please type them in the questions box um type them in the questions box um type them in the questions box um because you're all muted so I will read because you're all muted so I will read because you're all muted so I will read them out on your behalf um to the them out on your behalf um to the them out on your behalf um to the panelists as well um I've got one but panelists as well um I've got one but panelists as well um I've got one but maybe want a couple actually of of maybe want a couple actually of of maybe want a couple actually of of questions lots of fascinating things questions lots of fascinating things questions lots of fascinating things um uh so one for Paul first I think I um uh so one for Paul first I think I um uh so one for Paul first I think I think you alluded to it in your think you alluded to it in your think you alluded to it in your presentation but to you know can you presentation but to you know can you presentation but to you know can you give us some examples then of UN give us some examples then of UN give us some examples then of UN sustainable sustainable sustainable remediation um yes remediation um yes remediation um yes um Let Let me give a particular example um Let Let me give a particular example um Let Let me give a particular example of um very unpopular of um very unpopular of um very unpopular remediation a a site in a part of the UK remediation a a site in a part of the UK remediation a a site in a part of the UK where the the process of choosing the where the the process of choosing the where the the process of choosing the remediation option was discussed with remediation option was discussed with remediation option was discussed with the local community each step of the way the local community each step of the way the local community each step of the way was agreed and when they came up with was agreed and when they came up with was agreed and when they came up with the final answer the community suddenly the final answer the community suddenly the final answer the community suddenly decided we don't like that we want you decided we don't like that we want you decided we don't like that we want you to dig it all up put it in a lorry and to dig it all up put it in a lorry and to dig it all up put it in a lorry and drive it a long distance away and drive it a long distance away and drive it a long distance away and putting the hold in the ground in putting the hold in the ground in putting the hold in the ground in somebody else's somebody else's somebody else's Community that's what happened that's an Community that's what happened that's an Community that's what happened that's an unpopular form of unpopular form of unpopular form of Remediation in uh California Where Da Remediation in uh California Where Da Remediation in uh California Where Da was uh talking about San Francisco in a was uh talking about San Francisco in a was uh talking about San Francisco in a different different different city a in an urban setting um city a in an urban setting um city a in an urban setting um radioactive contamination was remedi radioactive contamination was remedi radioactive contamination was remedi iated by encapsulating it in a big iated by encapsulating it in a big iated by encapsulating it in a big monolith and the remediation worked monolith and the remediation worked monolith and the remediation worked really well when the surrounded really well when the surrounded really well when the surrounded community over the years changed people community over the years changed people community over the years changed people moved out and saw new people came in moved out and saw new people came in moved out and saw new people came in they realized what this lump in the they realized what this lump in the they realized what this lump in the middle of their Community was they said middle of their Community was they said middle of their Community was they said we don't want radioactivity in the we don't want radioactivity in the we don't want radioactivity in the middle of our community there was no middle of our community there was no middle of our community there was no problem no risk but the decision was problem no risk but the decision was problem no risk but the decision was taken to go in and break this monolith taken to go in and break this monolith taken to go in and break this monolith up and take it somewhere else so those up and take it somewhere else so those up and take it somewhere else so those are unsustainable forms ofation yeah are unsustainable forms ofation yeah are unsustainable forms ofation yeah please remove it from our line of sight please remove it from our line of sight please remove it from our line of sight doesn't really deal with it does it so doesn't really deal with it does it so doesn't really deal with it does it so not managing risk no exactly yeah no not managing risk no exactly yeah no not managing risk no exactly yeah no that's great thanks thanks Paul um I've that's great thanks thanks Paul um I've that's great thanks thanks Paul um I've got a question coming I've got a couple got a question coming I've got a couple got a question coming I've got a couple more but I I'll save those for later so more but I I'll save those for later so more but I I'll save those for later so um how much do you consider Nano um how much do you consider Nano um how much do you consider Nano remediation as a successful remediation as a successful remediation as a successful insitu um remediation technique for insitu um remediation technique for insitu um remediation technique for soils so any of you got any experience soils so any of you got any experience soils so any of you got any experience with Nano remediation or any with Nano remediation or any with Nano remediation or any examples we we've been involved in an EU examples we we've been involved in an EU examples we we've been involved in an EU funded project called nanor but I'll let funded project called nanor but I'll let funded project called nanor but I'll let day answer first because I know that day answer first because I know that day answer first because I know that China's doing a lot of work on nanor China's doing a lot of work on nanor China's doing a lot of work on nanor remediation yeah yeah so for for Nal remediation yeah yeah so for for Nal remediation yeah yeah so for for Nal remediation I there's a lot of research remediation I there's a lot of research remediation I there's a lot of research going on um myself my research group has going on um myself my research group has going on um myself my research group has Deva a few variant all for nanomaterials Deva a few variant all for nanomaterials Deva a few variant all for nanomaterials for remed purpose so I I I think in that for remed purpose so I I I think in that for remed purpose so I I I think in that regard I mean um it's it's highly regard I mean um it's it's highly regard I mean um it's it's highly popular um but for actual project um is popular um but for actual project um is popular um but for actual project um is still quite un limited I mean uh for still quite un limited I mean uh for still quite un limited I mean uh for example when I did one project uh in the example when I did one project uh in the example when I did one project uh in the US for um uh the the reductive um US for um uh the the reductive um US for um uh the the reductive um remediation of contam site we look at remediation of contam site we look at remediation of contam site we look at the the CVI but at the end we didn't the the CVI but at the end we didn't the the CVI but at the end we didn't choose nanoia because it was four times choose nanoia because it was four times choose nanoia because it was four times more expensive than than the the the the more expensive than than the the the the more expensive than than the the the the the the traditional the micro um CVI so the the traditional the micro um CVI so the the traditional the micro um CVI so we didn't choose it um there also T is we didn't choose it um there also T is we didn't choose it um there also T is where in China um we did we did look where in China um we did we did look where in China um we did we did look into it but I mean at the end the the into it but I mean at the end the the into it but I mean at the end the the business decision um often uh relies business decision um often uh relies business decision um often uh relies upon the cost and I think I mean right upon the cost and I think I mean right upon the cost and I think I mean right now the cost is still not favorable for now the cost is still not favorable for now the cost is still not favorable for foration quite often yeah okay so it's foration quite often yeah okay so it's foration quite often yeah okay so it's it's it's it's been proven as successful it's it's it's been proven as successful it's it's it's been proven as successful but at the moment it's the the cost but at the moment it's the the cost but at the moment it's the the cost implication that is um I think the the implication that is um I think the the implication that is um I think the the position in Europe is is a bit different position in Europe is is a bit different position in Europe is is a bit different and the position in the UK is very and the position in the UK is very and the position in the UK is very different so I'll answer the European different so I'll answer the European different so I'll answer the European one first um the EU funded a project one first um the EU funded a project one first um the EU funded a project called nanor and I'd encourage you to called nanor and I'd encourage you to called nanor and I'd encourage you to look at the website on nanm if you if look at the website on nanm if you if look at the website on nanm if you if you can't find it drop me an email um you can't find it drop me an email um you can't find it drop me an email um there are a number of bulletins looking there are a number of bulletins looking there are a number of bulletins looking at the performance of different Nano at the performance of different Nano at the performance of different Nano particles including Nano uh zero veent particles including Nano uh zero veent particles including Nano uh zero veent ions that they referred to and how ions that they referred to and how ions that they referred to and how they've performed on real sites in a they've performed on real sites in a they've performed on real sites in a number of countries in Europe and they number of countries in Europe and they number of countries in Europe and they all work they all did the job uh our all work they all did the job uh our all work they all did the job uh our role in the project uh given that this role in the project uh given that this role in the project uh given that this was the first time that they were being was the first time that they were being was the first time that they were being injected into groundwater that was injected into groundwater that was injected into groundwater that was polluted was to provide a risk polluted was to provide a risk polluted was to provide a risk assessment that showed that these nanop assessment that showed that these nanop assessment that showed that these nanop particles would not themselves yeah particles would not themselves yeah particles would not themselves yeah cause the level of adverse impact that I cause the level of adverse impact that I cause the level of adverse impact that I talked about as being unsustainable we talked about as being unsustainable we talked about as being unsustainable we did that qualitatively before it did that qualitatively before it did that qualitatively before it happened to satisfy the regulators and happened to satisfy the regulators and happened to satisfy the regulators and then quantitatively when we had results then quantitatively when we had results then quantitatively when we had results afterwards show that things were okay in afterwards show that things were okay in afterwards show that things were okay in the UK we currently are not allowed to the UK we currently are not allowed to the UK we currently are not allowed to use nanop particles for remediation use nanop particles for remediation use nanop particles for remediation there is a there is a there is a moratorium that's been in place for moratorium that's been in place for moratorium that's been in place for several several several years and I think that nobody has years and I think that nobody has years and I think that nobody has bothered to go back and look at the fact bothered to go back and look at the fact bothered to go back and look at the fact we now know a lot more and therefore we now know a lot more and therefore we now know a lot more and therefore that moratorium can be lifted but that that moratorium can be lifted but that that moratorium can be lifted but that that's where we are in the UK that's where we are in the UK that's where we are in the UK okay no it's really helpful thanks both okay no it's really helpful thanks both okay no it's really helpful thanks both it's really um interesting thinking it's really um interesting thinking it's really um interesting thinking about the context and again there's about the context and again there's about the context and again there's another question about other kinds of another question about other kinds of another question about other kinds of legal and institutional priorities so legal and institutional priorities so legal and institutional priorities so you mentioned this Paul in your talk as you mentioned this Paul in your talk as you mentioned this Paul in your talk as well um so this is a question well um so this is a question well um so this is a question specifically about local authorities and specifically about local authorities and specifically about local authorities and whether you um you think that they whether you um you think that they whether you um you think that they should require the should require the should require the evaluation of the sustainability of evaluation of the sustainability of evaluation of the sustainability of proposed remediations as part of the proposed remediations as part of the proposed remediations as part of the contaminated land um contaminated land um contaminated land um strategies is that a UK specific one or strategies is that a UK specific one or strategies is that a UK specific one or yeah that's a UK specific one I think um yeah that's a UK specific one I think um yeah that's a UK specific one I think um okay it mentions local we well I mean I okay it mentions local we well I mean I okay it mentions local we well I mean I guess I guess it could also be um guess I guess it could also be um guess I guess it could also be um relevant for for non-uk okay local any relevant for for non-uk okay local any relevant for for non-uk okay local any local governance I guess so I'll take local governance I guess so I'll take local governance I guess so I'll take that but I'd be interested to see how that but I'd be interested to see how that but I'd be interested to see how you think the sustainable development you think the sustainable development you think the sustainable development goals are making a difference goals are making a difference goals are making a difference worldwide um but in in England worldwide um but in in England worldwide um but in in England specifically the national planning specifically the national planning specifically the national planning policy framework requires development to policy framework requires development to policy framework requires development to be sustainable development so the local be sustainable development so the local be sustainable development so the local authorities already have a authorities already have a authorities already have a responsibility and a duty to consider a responsibility and a duty to consider a responsibility and a duty to consider a planning application to see whether it planning application to see whether it planning application to see whether it constitutes sustainable development or constitutes sustainable development or constitutes sustainable development or not they have no choice yeah most not they have no choice yeah most not they have no choice yeah most development though isn't just about the development though isn't just about the development though isn't just about the remediation it's remediation as a remediation it's remediation as a remediation it's remediation as a enabler of some else and it's the enabler of some else and it's the enabler of some else and it's the something else that has to be something else that has to be something else that has to be sustainable and the remediation is part sustainable and the remediation is part sustainable and the remediation is part of the bigger picture so that that's of the bigger picture so that that's of the bigger picture so that that's something that I've talked about something that I've talked about something that I've talked about elsewhere there's another EU project elsewhere there's another EU project elsewhere there's another EU project called ombre hombr re that looked called ombre hombr re that looked called ombre hombr re that looked exactly at that and we were greedy we exactly at that and we were greedy we exactly at that and we were greedy we wanted our remediation to deliver more wanted our remediation to deliver more wanted our remediation to deliver more than just risk reduction material reuse than just risk reduction material reuse than just risk reduction material reuse using the volume that's been created using the volume that's been created using the volume that's been created when you're Excavating that kind of when you're Excavating that kind of when you're Excavating that kind of thing so have a look at ombre if you thing so have a look at ombre if you thing so have a look at ombre if you want in the UK it has to be sustainable want in the UK it has to be sustainable want in the UK it has to be sustainable development if you're going to get plan development if you're going to get plan development if you're going to get plan commission okay yeah thanks that's commission okay yeah thanks that's commission okay yeah thanks that's really comprehensive answer to that really comprehensive answer to that really comprehensive answer to that um a couple of other questions come in um a couple of other questions come in um a couple of other questions come in sorry I'm just having a look sorry I'm just having a look sorry I'm just having a look through so there's one actually link to through so there's one actually link to through so there's one actually link to so we mentioned sdgs obviously another so we mentioned sdgs obviously another so we mentioned sdgs obviously another buzzword is soil Health at the moment so buzzword is soil Health at the moment so buzzword is soil Health at the moment so there's currently a lot of interest in there's currently a lot of interest in there's currently a lot of interest in soil Health um so does you know do you soil Health um so does you know do you soil Health um so does you know do you think sustainable remediation addresses think sustainable remediation addresses think sustainable remediation addresses restoring the health of the soil a restoring the health of the soil a restoring the health of the soil a living living living thing under that thing under that thing under that context for both of you to answer so context for both of you to answer so context for both of you to answer so um yeah I I um Paul do you want to go um yeah I I um Paul do you want to go um yeah I I um Paul do you want to go first or no no I'll let you go I was first or no no I'll let you go I was first or no no I'll let you go I was hoping I had some C in my mind hoping I had some C in my mind hoping I had some C in my mind yeah is um is becoming um a new buzz yeah is um is becoming um a new buzz yeah is um is becoming um a new buzz word I guess um um so in China um the word I guess um um so in China um the word I guess um um so in China um the ministry of Environmental Protection ministry of Environmental Protection ministry of Environmental Protection changed this name to Ministry of ecology changed this name to Ministry of ecology changed this name to Ministry of ecology and environment this chocc several years and environment this chocc several years and environment this chocc several years ago and since then people have been ago and since then people have been ago and since then people have been wondering especially the policy makers wondering especially the policy makers wondering especially the policy makers right I we are the ministry of ecology right I we are the ministry of ecology right I we are the ministry of ecology and environment what do we do about the and environment what do we do about the and environment what do we do about the ecology because in the past it's always ecology because in the past it's always ecology because in the past it's always about a pollution prevention and about a pollution prevention and about a pollution prevention and Remediation so now for the soil part um Remediation so now for the soil part um Remediation so now for the soil part um the the policy makers are increasingly the the policy makers are increasingly the the policy makers are increasingly looking at um soil health and in fact my looking at um soil health and in fact my looking at um soil health and in fact my research group has given some um pretty research group has given some um pretty research group has given some um pretty big funding recently to study soil big funding recently to study soil big funding recently to study soil health and its relevance to soil health and its relevance to soil health and its relevance to soil pollution um so I I think this is this pollution um so I I think this is this pollution um so I I think this is this is a new trend and reflect what what is a new trend and reflect what what is a new trend and reflect what what people um are looking at systems from a people um are looking at systems from a people um are looking at systems from a broader View and look at soil as a broader View and look at soil as a broader View and look at soil as a living um system rather than um just living um system rather than um just living um system rather than um just some some mineral material yeah so I some some mineral material yeah so I some some mineral material yeah so I think this has um implications for think this has um implications for think this has um implications for remediation um in the past especially in remediation um in the past especially in remediation um in the past especially in China um High um treatment on the high China um High um treatment on the high China um High um treatment on the high temperature like I mean incineration or temperature like I mean incineration or temperature like I mean incineration or or co-processing with cement or co-processing with cement or co-processing with cement manufacturing uh was very popular but manufacturing uh was very popular but manufacturing uh was very popular but that treatment inevitably destroy the um that treatment inevitably destroy the um that treatment inevitably destroy the um the biodiversity so and and change the the biodiversity so and and change the the biodiversity so and and change the the the physical chemical properties uh the the physical chemical properties uh the the physical chemical properties uh it was totally okay in the past but I it was totally okay in the past but I it was totally okay in the past but I think looking in the future this will think looking in the future this will think looking in the future this will become less favorable and my hope is become less favorable and my hope is become less favorable and my hope is that this will help to promote a more that this will help to promote a more that this will help to promote a more sustainable um Alternatives in the remed sustainable um Alternatives in the remed sustainable um Alternatives in the remed industry industry industry yeah Jack I know we're running out have yeah Jack I know we're running out have yeah Jack I know we're running out have you got a very brief you got a very brief you got a very brief comment by soil and it depends on what comment by soil and it depends on what comment by soil and it depends on what you mean by Health soil is more than you mean by Health soil is more than you mean by Health soil is more than just a living system this is probably just a living system this is probably just a living system this is probably going to get me kicked out of the going to get me kicked out of the going to get me kicked out of the society because the soil underneath my society because the soil underneath my society because the soil underneath my house is principal function is to stop house is principal function is to stop house is principal function is to stop my house my house my house collapsing and and we need to recognize collapsing and and we need to recognize collapsing and and we need to recognize that Health means different things in that Health means different things in that Health means different things in different places the soil is doing different places the soil is doing different places the soil is doing different things for us yeah yeah no different things for us yeah yeah no different things for us yeah yeah no that that well that's a great point to that that well that's a great point to that that well that's a great point to finish off on actually so um I think finish off on actually so um I think finish off on actually so um I think thinking about that kind of thinking about that kind of thinking about that kind of multifunctionality and the lens at which multifunctionality and the lens at which multifunctionality and the lens at which we look at soils is really important so we look at soils is really important so we look at soils is really important so um no but thank you both really very um no but thank you both really very um no but thank you both really very much um you know I'd like to thank you much um you know I'd like to thank you much um you know I'd like to thank you on behalf of the society um of two on behalf of the society um of two on behalf of the society um of two fantastic present is Paul and day today fantastic present is Paul and day today fantastic present is Paul and day today uh for coming along to present um and uh for coming along to present um and uh for coming along to present um and thank you everybody on the call for thank you everybody on the call for thank you everybody on the call for attending uh you find a quick feedback attending uh you find a quick feedback attending uh you find a quick feedback form when you leave the webinar so form when you leave the webinar so form when you leave the webinar so please take the time to just fill that please take the time to just fill that please take the time to just fill that in as we mentioned at the beginning a in as we mentioned at the beginning a in as we mentioned at the beginning a recording will be available after the recording will be available after the recording will be available after the event so that will be available on our event so that will be available on our event so that will be available on our YouTube channel um just want to YouTube channel um just want to YouTube channel um just want to highlight a couple of upcoming events highlight a couple of upcoming events highlight a couple of upcoming events obviously our annual conference uh is at obviously our annual conference uh is at obviously our annual conference uh is at the end of the year so this takes place the end of the year so this takes place the end of the year so this takes place on the 4th and 5th of December in on the 4th and 5th of December in on the 4th and 5th of December in Belfast we've got a brilliant program so Belfast we've got a brilliant program so Belfast we've got a brilliant program so please do um check the website there and please do um check the website there and please do um check the website there and you'll be able to register for that you'll be able to register for that you'll be able to register for that event too we really look forward to event too we really look forward to event too we really look forward to seeing you um we're also running another seeing you um we're also running another seeing you um we're also running another training course in November so this is training course in November so this is training course in November so this is an agricultural land classification an agricultural land classification an agricultural land classification course that will be based at Cranfield course that will be based at Cranfield course that will be based at Cranfield University on the 22nd and 23rd of University on the 22nd and 23rd of University on the 22nd and 23rd of November so again do check out our November so again do check out our November so again do check out our website and there's details there on how website and there's details there on how website and there's details there on how to book our next webinar which will be to book our next webinar which will be to book our next webinar which will be the final one for this year is on the final one for this year is on the final one for this year is on Wednesday the 1st of November please do Wednesday the 1st of November please do Wednesday the 1st of November please do put the date in your Diaries the topic put the date in your Diaries the topic put the date in your Diaries the topic has been to be confirmed so check the has been to be confirmed so check the has been to be confirmed so check the website um and also uh register for that website um and also uh register for that website um and also uh register for that ahead of time um and yeah just Fally I ahead of time um and yeah just Fally I ahead of time um and yeah just Fally I hope to see you all these future events hope to see you all these future events hope to see you all these future events and thanks very much for attending and and thanks very much for attending and and thanks very much for attending and goodbye
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