Twenty-five Nuffield Scholars took to the stage in Belfast last week to share findings on a broad range of topics including consumer engagement, resource management, climate change readiness, social benefits of farming and new approaches in agriculture, forestry and horticulture.
The Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust held its annual Nuffield Farming Conference in the historic Assembly Buildings in Belfast from 19-21 November, welcoming its largest ever audience with attendance reaching more than 480 people on day one.
AHDB served as Main Sponsor of the conference with Fane Valley as Northern Ireland Principal Sponsor; the event was also supported by Visit Belfast.
The event also included addresses from HRH The Duke of Gloucester, patron of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust; Andrew Muir MLA, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs of Northern Ireland; Graham Wilkinson, CEO of AHDB; and Glenn Speer, Business Development Director for Fane Valley.
The primary aim of the conference is to amplify the voices of Nuffield Farming Scholars that have recently completed their scholarship, giving them an opportunity to share their knowledge and experiences. Through the two days of presentations, several themes emerged that spanned sectors, regions and international borders.
Of particular focus were efforts to farm more efficiently, making use of waste and sourcing alternative products. This included in-depth looks at insect protein, vertical farming, hemp, biochar, renewable energy production, feed additives, organic manure, and financial incentives for sustainability-related activity.
Best practice for improving biodiversity and the natural environment were also discussed, including how farmers and environmental groups can work together. Climate change and its impact on farming was also a common theme throughout the conference, with many Scholars sharing how farmers in every corner of the globe are taking action to make their businesses more resilient.
Solutions to challenges around sourcing and financing labour were also explored, including automation and mechanisation in fresh produce and soft fruits. The power of food and farming to have a positive impact on society through improved nutrition and community relations was shared by two Scholars who are also GPs.
It was also clear from most of the presentations that people are key to the success of businesses, programmes and supply chains. The need for investment in training, developing leadership skills and engaging stakeholders was clear if the industry is going to meet its most pressing challenges. Additionally, several presentations touched on the importance of positive engagement with consumers and the public, as well as offering strategies and examples for doing so.
Full recordings of all Scholar presentations are now available to view on Nuffield Farming’s YouTube channel.
Several awards were also presented, recognising Scholars who had done exceptional work in their reports and presentations, as well as in the years after completing their Scholarships in areas of leadership and sustainability:
• Nuffield Farming Greener Future Award, sponsored by LEAF: Lorna Davis NSch
• Steven and Gillian Bullock Award: Jonty Brunyee NSch
• Nuffield Farming Frank Arden Leadership Award: Tim Stephens NSch
• John Stewart Shield for Best Presentation: Roisin Taylor NSch & Claire Whittle NSch
• Nuffield Farming Best Report: Liz Cresswell NSch
Tom Rawson, chair of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust, said: “With a rich history of farming and food production in Northern Ireland, Belfast was a natural fit and provided some incredible venues like the Assembly Rooms and Titanic Belfast. Our organizing team were keen to showcase the best that their region has to offer, and they more than accomplished that.
“Our presenting Scholars also delivered, sharing incredible insights and learnings culminating from two years of hard work, global travel and thinking differently about our industry’s most challenging questions. The knowledge and experience they bring to the stage is what makes the Nuffield Farming Conference special – such a degree of forward-thinking and innovative ideas cannot be found at any other event.”
The 2025 Nuffield Farming Conference will be held in Aberdeen in November 2025 in partnership with the Future Farming Expo. News and updates can be found at www.NuffieldScholar.org.
Comments