NFUS met the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) in a roundtable discussion involving members of the Combinable Crop Committee and representatives from the SWA’s Net Zero Working Group.
Focusing on ways to collaborate for a sustainable and profitable future for all, the meeting brought together two ends of the supply chain for a grain-to-glass dialogue.
In an open and frank discussion, NFUS members outlined the challenges faced by growers, whilst the SWA discussed the Scotch Whisky industry’s net zero targets in their own operations and supply chains, and the challenges and opportunities for emission reductions. Overall, in a very positive meeting, there were areas identified where there are mutual policy overlaps and key areas where collaboration can take place.
Jack Stevenson, Chair of the Combinable Crops Committee said, ‘Overall, we welcome positive engagement like this in the supply chain where sustainability involves both profitability, as well as the environmental benefits. Having a shared understanding of the challenges being faced by both sides and a constructive solution focussed dialogue can only be of benefit. This is an encouraging start, and we look forwards towards continuing to build upon this valuable relationship.’
Peter Nelson, Chair of the SWA Net Zero Working Group said “We committed to getting closer to our farming supply base, and we are putting that into action. Last month's open round table discussion was informative and enlightening, and hearing first-hand the concerns and issues of the farming community was crucial to both of our sectors continuing to collaborate and achieving our shared aspirations of safeguarding our futures in a sustainable way.”