Episode details

Radio 4,30 Sep 2026,14 mins
30/09/26 Nitrogen in soil, organic veg scheme, student bursaries.
Farming TodayAvailable for 29 days
New research shows that improving the nitrogen-cycle in the soil can significantly reduce emissions. The study took in evidence from around the world - the international research team analysed 2,235 comparisons from 210 experimental sites. We speak to one of the report's authors Professor Simon Willcock director of sustainable farming systems at the University of Reading. A project in Cardiff has been helping low income households buy organic fruit and veg. Around 120 shoppers received a Planet Card - which gave them £11 a week to spend with organic veg producers. The pilot scheme cost around £19,000 and was funded by an alliance of charities and not-for-profit organisations - led by Food Sense Wales and Sustain. All week we've been exploring the different ways young people can get into farming. For those who want to take up a degree in agriculture it can be daunting to find the right route, especially if you're not from a farming background. The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association has linked up with the John Innes Foundation bursary award, to give students a helping hand to take up agriculture at degree level; not only funding 50% of tutition fees, but also contributing to rent and living expenses. Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney
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