Ben Macpherson MSP joins judging panel

NFU Scotland has started the search for Scotland’s climate friendly farming champion.

Hosted by NFU Scotland’s Next Generation group and supported by Royal Bank of Scotland, the competition is encouraging Scotland’s farmers and crofters to take to video to outline the steps they are taking to reduce emissions and deliver wider environmental benefits.

The panel of judges will now include Ben Macpherson MSP, newly appointed Minister for Rural Affairs and the Natural Environment; Claire Taylor, political affairs editor at the Scottish Farmer and NFU Scotland’s Next Generation Chair Peter Moss.  

Those entering NFU Scotland’s competition will have a chance to win a state-of-the-art drone with a tailored un-manned ariel vehicle (UAV) upload and satellite imagery package from SoilEssentials.

Entrants simply record a three-minute video, sharing their views on how Scottish agriculture can respond to climate change challenges, highlighting the steps they have taken on-farm to tackle climate change. We would also love to see and hear about the wider environmental benefits from taking these steps.

The closing date for the competition is Monday 1 February 2021, with the winner announced at NFU Scotland’s virtual AGM on Thursday 11 February 2021.

Orkney farmer Pete Moss said: “We know that Scotland’s farmers, crofters, and growers have already taken steps to tackle climate change.  However, we also know that in the future, we are going to need to do more to tackle the climate and biodiversity crises. That is why we want to hear from those who are already taking steps to reduce their emissions.  This video competition, in partnership with Royal Bank of Scotland and SoilEssentials, will highlight the incredible work already being done by Scotland’s farmers and crofters to reduce their emissions and protect the natural environment.”

Rural Affairs Minister, Ben Macpherson added: “I am very pleased to be confirmed as a judge of this new competition. This initiative will highlight the impressive, positive work already being done to help combat the effects of climate change and reduce emissions, by committed individuals in the Scottish farming and crofting sectors. The competition will raise awareness of the important contributions of young, dedicated farmers and crofters, as we continue to work together to help reach our world-leading climate targets.”

Notes for Editors

• The video guidelines for entrants are as follows:
  • Film in landscape and limit the video to 3 minutes maximum.  You can talk directly to camera, create a voiceover for pictures, or use animation and infographics
  • Please send a WeTransfer link (link) in an email, detailing your name and contact details, to ruth.taylor@nfus.org.uk
• Questions for entrants to consider are as follows:
  • Why do you think tackling the climate and biodiversity crises is important for Scottish agriculture?  What steps have you taken on your farm to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and restore/promote biodiversity?  What steps would you like to take in the future, and how would you like to be supported to do this (from government, training schemes, research projects, investment)?
    

Ends

Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006