Farming can contribute to sustainable agenda says NFU

Local food and using renewable fuel and energy are achievable ways of encouraging sustainable consumption in the UK, according to the NFU.

The comment comes in response to the recommendations of the Sustainable Consumption Round Table report launched today.

The report, by members of the National Consumer Council and the Sustainable Development Commission, recommends that the Government takes the lead in encouraging consumers to lead a green lifestyle. The report suggests it starts by investing in carbon neutral buildings and transport.

Peter Kendall, NFU president, said: "The NFU has been championing the role farming can play in contributing to sustainable energy sources in the UK. We have already secured a Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation for transport fuel – we need this to be built on and the same arrangement introduced to encourage local energy generation through biomass.

"These kind of things need to be demand-led. Consumers need incentives and reasons to change their lifestyles. We need the UK government to lead from the front on issues like this."

Local food is another area where British farmers can help consumers to make sustainable choices.

Mr Kendall said: "The majority of consumers do their food shopping in supermarkets, but they should be offered more choice in terms of locally produced food.

"It should be easier and cost effective for hospitals, schools and other public bodies to source local foods for their needs too. This is work the NFU has been involved in for the past ten years but we are not gaining momentum. Again, government should take the lead here."