The Source

Intercropping has demonstrated an ability to provide more resilience on farms, particularly in low input systems. It can produce higher total yields, higher quality products and more crop protein than monocrops. It can potentially increase resilience and reduce risk. 

The more intensive tillage methods tested (rotary tiller, disc harrow, stubble harrow) did not provide significantly better perennial weed control than the horizontal root cutter. Treatments with the vertical root cutter had 40% less E. repens and 22% less S. arvensis shoot biomass than treatments without the vertical root cutter.

Over 1961 to 2021, we find that Total Factor Productivity growth—which captures the sector’s ability to produce more output per unit of measured input—has consistently remained one of the main sources of GHG emission reduction within farms.

Short lying bouts, incomplete bouts, and memory were tested as pain indicators. Band and surgical castration were used as pain sources. Total lying bouts did not differ between castration methods.

This report, funded by the Agile Initiative, presents insights from a year of engagement with UK food system stakeholders and experts to unpick the ambiguity of Regenerative Agriculture (Regen Ag). It considers if, how, and to what extent Regen Ag could support the pursuit of local, national and international goals for the UK food system, and what policy interventions might facilitate this role and help to avoid the potential pitfalls associated with this contested concept.

Livestock environment specialist, Galebreaker and Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) have released insights from their two-year research project, CEVEC (Cost Effective Ventilated Environment for Calves).  Focused on enhancing calf outcomes, the project shows daily live weight gains of up to 150g for youngstock housed in the purpose-built calf rearing shed at High Skeog Farm in Dumfries and Galloway. 

Over 1961 to 2021, we find that Total Factor Productivity growth—which captures the sector’s ability to produce more output per unit of measured input—has consistently remained one of the main sources of GHG emission reduction within farms.

Updated standards aim to give cattle more space, additional pasture access, and better welfare at every stage of life. The new revised standards will come into effect from April 20, 2026 and are designed to support better welfare outcomes, while remaining practical for farms to deliver. They feature a wide range of improvements based on best practice and the latest science and advice from vets, farmers, and welfare experts.

Faced with exploding global demand for protein and the growing environmental impact of animal farming, insects are emerging as an attractive alternative: they are rich in nutrients, resource-efficient and have already been tested by researchers, businesses and chefs. But behind all the hype, one question remains: is eating insects really a sustainable and safe solution for feeding the planet?

Alongside pulses and energy crops, fibre crops could be considered as an emerging third pathway for diversified arable rotations. With rising interest in natural fibres for bedding, biocomposites and manufacturing, flax and hemp offer soil-improving properties and new market opportunities—though not without challenges.

Tests have been carried out to establish the levels of methane being emitted by sheep living off a natural forage diet in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The Forage for CH4nge project – funded by Innovate UK – is bringing together farmers and scientists to better understand how traditional breeds and different pastures can help reduce the environmental impact of sheep farming.

Between 6% and 10% of calves are lost on dairy farms in the UK, with scours and pneumonia accounting for three-quarters of the deaths.  Calves are not born with immunity to any of the diseases around them. The only way a calf can pick up any immunity is through colostrum.  Farms with good colostrum management will make more sales, regardless of what nutritional programme is implemented next.