Mayo native explores net zero opportunities for farmers at Nuffield Ireland conference

DAIRY farmer David Dolan, from Garrymore, Claremorris, will present the findings of his Nuffield Ireland Scholarship at the annual Nuffield Ireland conference which takes place in the Mount Wolseley Hotel, Tullow, Co. Carlow, on Friday, November 10.

David began his study into Net zero carbon emissions - challenges and opportunities for farmers and co-ops in 2022. This research aimed to compare what is achievable for farmers in today’s policy environment and accounting mechanism versus what could be possible in an ideal world.

The research found that organisations can purchase carbon credits through an accreditation scheme to achieve net zero with limited oversight on the organisation issuing the credits.

According to David, these practices erode trust and confidence in legitimate sustainability initiatives, making it harder for consumers to make informed choices.

To maintain the integrity of Irish agricultural sustainability claims, David believes it is important that robust frameworks are put in place that include life cycle analysis of all farm inputs.

The conference will be officially opened by Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Pippa Hackett, and will hear presentations from four returning Nuffield Ireland Scholars, including David Dolan.

The theme for this year’s conference is 'Finding Common Ground' between consumers and the farming community which will be discussed by agri-communicator and keynote speaker Amy Jackson, director of Oxtale and Nuffield UK 2012 Scholar.

One of the presenting scholars will also be the inaugural recipient of a new award in honour of the late agri-leader and Nuffield Scholar, Padraig Walshe, who passed away last February.

Speaking about the inaugural Padraig Walshe Award, Joe Leonard, Nuffield Ireland chairperson, said: “This award will be given annually to the best presentation by a returning scholar, as voted on by the conference attendees. The award will include a beautiful perpetual trophy, which is Ronan Halpin’s Queen Maebh’s Bull, and a ticket to a major international agricultural conference or event.

“Our 2022 Scholars will be the first to compete for the Nuffield Ireland Padraig Walshe Award. This award will honour Padraig’s memory and legacy into the future.”