Evolving Practices in Irish Agriculture: Embracing Change for a Sustainable Future

Irish agriculture is at a crossroads. The need to balance productivity with sustainability is more pressing than ever and farmers are now exploring new methods to ensure a greener future.

Adopting Modern Techniques

Farmers in Ireland are increasingly adopting modern techniques. These methods not only boost productivity but also reduce environmental impact. Precision farming, for instance, uses a variety of technological tools and systems such as; GPS mapping, satellite imagery, and sensors, to monitor and manage farm operations with high accuracy. This technology enables farmers to gain detailed insights into soil health, moisture levels, and crop growth patterns. By analysing this data, farmers can make informed decisions about the application of fertilisers, water, and pesticides, ensuring that these inputs are used only where they are needed and in the appropriate quantities. Currently, more than 50% of Irish farm(ers) are using some form of precision technology and 80% of Irish farm(ers) are now incorporating various forms of AgriTech into their operations.

To add, renewable energy is also rapidly becoming a central component of agricultural practices on Irish farms. As awareness of environmental issues grows and the push for sustainability intensifies, many farmers across Ireland are taking proactive steps to integrate renewable energy sources into their operations. A notable number of these farmers are investing in solar panels and wind turbines, harnessing the abundant natural resources of sunlight and wind that are readily available throughout the country. Today, about 10% of Irish farmers are using solar energy but this is set to increase in the comming years as various grant schemes are becoming more available, such as the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS). 

Promoting Biodiversity

Biodiversity is essential for sustainable agriculture, and farmers are embracing this by creating wildlife habitats on their land. They are planting hedgerows and maintaining wetlands, which support various species and bring multiple benefits.

Hedgerows provide homes and food for birds, insects, and small mammals, helping them move safely across the landscape. Hedgerows can be found on a whopping 90 % of Irish farms. Wetlands support a rich array of plants and animals, improve water quality, and help control floods.

These practices also enhance soil health by promoting natural nutrient cycling and pest control, reducing the need for chemical inputs. Additionally, they ensure cleaner water and make farms more resilient to climate change and extreme weather. By fostering biodiversity, farmers are building healthier, more sustainable farms that can thrive for generations to come.

Reducing>

Waste reduction is a major focus for Irish farmers, who are adopting sustainable practices like composting and recycling. These efforts help return nutrients to the soil and reduce landfill waste. Beyond these methods, farmers are getting creative in repurposing waste products.

One innovative approach is turning agricultural waste into bioenergy. By converting crop residues and manure into biogas, farmers generate renewable energy for their operations. For instance, 590,000 tonnes of waste was treated at composting and anaerobic digestion facilities in 2021 alone. This not only cuts down on waste but also provides an extra income source. This process captures methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and uses it to produce electricity, heat, or fuel, benefiting the environment.

Additionally, the byproducts of biogas production, called digestate, make excellent organic fertilisers, reducing the need for synthetic ones and further improving soil health. Some farmers are also turning waste into animal feed or creating new products like biodegradable packaging.

Collaborative Efforts

Collaboration is key to the success of sustainable farming practices. Farmers, researchers, and policymakers are joining forces to share knowledge and resources. This teamwork helps bring the latest scientific advances directly to the fields, ensuring practical and effective solutions.

Farmers provide crucial insights from their hands-on experience, while researchers offer innovative techniques and technologies. Policymakers create supportive regulations and make sure farmers have access to the latest information and tools. 

Government support is essential in this collaboration. Grants and subsidies help farmers afford new technologies and sustainable practices, reducing financial barriers. Training programs and extension services funded by the government provide farmers with the skills they need to implement these practices effectively. Examples of such include; Green, Low-Carbon, Agri-Environment Scheme (GLAS), The European Innovation Partnership (EIP-AGRI), and The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Grants. Public-private partnerships also play a role, with companies working alongside farmers and researchers to develop and deploy cutting-edge solutions.

In summary, the success of sustainable farming depends on strong collaboration among farmers, researchers, and policymakers, with significant support from the government. By working together, they can promote practices that benefit both the environment and the farming community.

As these practices evolve, they will help ensure that Irish agriculture remains productive and sustainable. Farmers will continue to adapt, finding new ways to balance their needs with those of the environment.

*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.