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At a recent two-day potato event in Lincolnshire, innovative techniques were showcased to help reduce soil movement, lower growing costs, and measure emissions in potato production. The Transformative Reduced Input Potatoes (Trip) programme trial plots demonstrated how integrating a variety and integrated pest management (IPM) package alongside methods to reduce fertiliser use and soil preparation could enhance the environmental sustainability of potato growing.

Dr. Christine Jones of Dyson Research highlighted the various ways to decrease inputs in potato crops, aiming to shift the system towards a low input and low disturbance approach. Techniques such as attracting hoverflies for biocontrol of aphids and breeding late blight-resistant varieties to reduce fungicide use were explored. In-field greenhouse gas monitors were also utilized to measure nitrous oxide emissions and fine-tune fertiliser applications for better soil management.

Mark Willcox, agronomy director of Branston, discussed the potential for growers to halve the carbon footprint of potato crops by implementing changes in farm practices such as using low-carbon fertilisers, adopting low-energy cold storage, and exploring fossil fuel alternatives. Branston is actively investigating low nitrogen varieties, reduced cultivations, new fuels, and other strategies to move towards net-zero potatoes.

Additionally, Fibe, a material science company, introduced a sustainable yarn made from fibres extracted from potato harvest waste as an eco-friendly alternative for the fashion and textile industries. The company aims to utilize untapped resources like potato haulm to develop climate-friendly textile fibres with reduced water usage and carbon emissions compared to traditional materials.

Dyson Farming, host of the Potato Days event, emphasized its commitment to a long-term regenerative farming model that prioritizes producing high-quality food with minimal environmental impact. With a focus on continuously improving crop production with low inputs, the company integrates research findings to make informed decisions and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

Overall, the event showcased a range of innovative approaches and technologies aimed at reducing environmental impact, improving sustainability, and moving towards net-zero potato production. By adopting these practices and collaboration across the supply chain, the industry can work towards achieving a more sustainable future for potato farming.

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