Popular event hosted by NFU Scotland Member

Considerable interest was shown in Agri-renewables and their role in combatting climate change, as 225 NFUS members from across the country joined David and Val Smith on Friday (29 January), when they opened the virtual doors to their farming business in Cloffrickford, Aberdeenshire.

The guests ranged from politicians to academics, students, farmers, and crofters, and they tuned in from as far afield as Orkney and Dumfries. Throughout the evening Davie walked attendees through his high-quality beef and grain production, the renewables he has on farm, and the innovative technologies that can convert that energy into hydrogen and water cells for powering machinery.

Davie was also joined by Nigel Holmes, CEO of the Scottish Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association (SHFCA), who spoke about Scotland’s role as one of the leading locations in Europe for the deployment of hydrogen and fuel cell solutions, and its ambition to be Net Zero by 2045. Mr Holmes described how the proactive SHFCA membership, like Davie Smith - or ‘Hurricane Davie’ as he referred to him - are leading the way with a 'learning by doing' approach, and are willing to share best practice and experience with NFUS as part of their activities in the lead up to COP26 and beyond.

After the event, Davie Smith commented; “It was really encouraging to see so many people being so aware of the problems we face with climate change. Farmers are, and always will do, their utmost to reduce the effects of their actions on the climate.

“It is, of course, important that farmers are allowed to continue producing food of the highest standard for the ever-increasing population, while maintaining Scotland’s beautiful landscape.”

Andrew McCornick, NFUS President, described the event as: “a testament to the industry’s desire to lead on climate change while producing sustainable food.”

He added; “We had a real look into a future where we can, from farm level, turn our backs on hydrocarbons, feed the nation, and save the planet.”

Given its success, Davie plans to host a similar event during Climate Change Week in March, for the citizens of urban Aberdeenshire.  

Notes to editors:

• The tour was hosted by David (Davie) Smith. Speaking at the events was Nigel Holmes - CEO of the Scottish Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association (SHFCA).
• A photograph of Davie Smith is attached.
  

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Contact Ruth Oxborrow on 07823 556253