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Baselining, the latest environmental trend, focuses on analyzing emissions and carbon stores on individual farms to establish a starting point for measuring progress. This approach can also be scaled up to provide industry-wide averages and inform environmental policies.

Various organizations, including banks, levy boards, and government departments, have initiated baselining schemes to gather data and drive change. The AHDB recently launched a pilot scheme with over 500 applications, selecting 170 farm businesses for the program. The initiative involves aerial scanning, soil carbon measurements, and carbon audit and action plans to assess Environmental Impact.

The results of baselining projects have the potential to influence future government policies by providing accurate UK-specific data. For example, it may lead to adjustments in on-farm tree planting targets in Wales, as soil carbon has been found to be a significant factor in carbon sequestration.

Industry-funded baselining projects, such as the Soil Association Exchange, have already yielded valuable insights on soil organic carbon levels across different farming enterprises. Livestock farming has been highlighted as a key contributor to emissions, but also plays a crucial role in soil health, biodiversity, and rural communities.

To reduce emissions and improve environmental Sustainability, farmers can consider strategies like reducing fertiliser use, implementing soil Nutrient Management plans, tree planting, and adjusting crop rotations. These measures can help enhance soil quality and support long-term Sustainability.

In Northern Ireland, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has launched a comprehensive baselining project to assess soil health and nutrient levels on a large scale. Participating farms receive valuable information to optimize Nutrient Management and reduce their environmental footprint.

Regarding water quality, baselining efforts are underway to establish a baseline for assessing the impact of agriculture on water resources. The NFU is involved in baselining work focusing on water quality and collaborating with other organizations to empower farmers to collect and utilize their own data for continuous improvement.

The ownership and management of farm data are critical issues, with initiatives like Farm Data Principles aiming to establish guidelines and protect farmers’ data rights. Good data governance is essential for building trust and ensuring farmers benefit from the data revolution while safeguarding their interests.

Overall, baselining is a crucial tool for assessing Environmental Impact, driving sustainable practices, and informing policy decisions in the agricultural sector. By leveraging data and collaborating effectively, the industry can work towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

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