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Why a blog?
The Farming Futures blog is for farmers, land managers and their advisers to discuss and debate the issue of climate change and sustainability in agriculture.
We’re interested in how you think we can produce more food for a growing population in the context of Government targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, hotter, drier summers, higher energy and input prices, and the increased consumer interest in 'low carbon' food.
This is your place to take part in the debate. Find out why we think a blog is important by clicking here.
Blogs marked with our weak signals logo explore ideas, trends, technologies or behaviour changes that are as yet unrecognised by the mainstream farming industry. They might have a big impact on future farm practices or they might disappear. They help us to challenge assumptions about the future, navigate risk and seize new opportunities. If you spot a weak signal, get in touch and we'll get it on the site.
Want to contribute? Contact Farming Futures at farmingfutures@niab.com or phone 01223 342313.
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Making more moo-lah from your milk
A material produced from cow milk protein that is strong enough for commercial use, yet biodegradable, could replace traditional Styrofoam packaging say US scientists.
The casein protein found in milk is already used to make adhesives or paper coatings, but on its own is not very strong and is water sensitive. Adding clay and a reactive molecule, the scientists from Case Western Reserve University have created a product that could challenge traditional foam plastics.
The scientists are now looking to work with a dairy school to use their products directly.
Given concerns over plastics going into landfill and the oil used in their creation, this option could be an exciting prospect and offer dairy farmers a new market for their produce.
Weak signals posts explore ideas, trends, technologies or behaviour changes that are as yet unrecognised by the mainstream farming industry. They might have a big impact on future farm practices or they might disappear. They help us to challenge assumptions about the future, navigate risk and seize new opportunities. If you spot a weak signal, get in touch and we'll get it on the site.
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