Farmers wanted to test-drive new GHG emissions-saving app

Arable and mixed farmers are being sought to help shape a new mobile phone app that could help them tackle on-farm greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

During a workshop at Glensaugh research farm near Laurencekirk, researchers from The James Hutton Institute will demonstrate the app prototype, which, alongside on-farm sensors, will estimate GHG emissions and point to ways to reduce and even help store more carbon in arable and mixed systems.

There will also be a discussion about the drivers and challenges of reducing emissions, a tour of Glensaugh, including the institute’s Climate-Positive Farming Initiative, and a talk about cutting carbon in arable farming from leading plant physiologist and soil scientist Professor Tim George.

The event is on November 9, from morning to early afternoon and includes lunch. Farmers registering for the event will be paid travel expenses and compensated for their time.

Project leader Dr Jagadeesh Yeluripati says, “Our goal is to give farmers a way to identify practices that may effectively reduce their GHGs and also use their soil to store more carbon. This workshop is a unique opportunity to shape and improve this innovative technology. Together, we can identify the driving forces behind emissions, enhance usability and maximise its impact.”

The workshop is part of the Scottish government funded TRANSITION project. Farmers interested in attending should contact Carol Kyle at carol.kyle@hutton.ac.uk or 0344 928 5428.