WIREDGOV

Ten new interdisciplinary projects have yesterday received a share of £3 million to improve the sustainability of UK farming. The funding was awarded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) alongside 12 industry partners.

The grants totalling £3.2 million were funded in the second round of the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Innovation Club (SARIC), which supports interdisciplinary projects to provide solutions to key challenges affecting the efficiency, productivity and sustainability of the UK crop and livestock sectors.

Among the funded research studies is work to improve the weather resilience of crops, sensing soil nitrogen, and advanced technologies for crop management. The translational studies include work to establish decision tools for slurry usage and potato cyst nematode management, devices to assess and improve the use of animal nutrients, and an assessment of the risks of pesticide run-off.

Speaking on behalf of the collaborating UK Research Councils, Dr Karen Lewis, BBSRC Interim Executive Director, Innovation and Skills, said: "The projects recommended for funding through this round of the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Innovation Club will contribute to addressing issues relevant both to sustainable intensification of farming and the agricultural industry.

"We are pleased that the projects will investigate a diverse range of topics that explore biological, environmental and social issues. in agriculture. The SARIC community is well placed to ensure the results of these studies can be translated into benefits for society."

SARIC was formed following consultation with trade associations, levy boards, policy makers and academia. The discussions identified a need to bring together researchers from the environmental, biological and social sciences with industry, to translate knowledge for the purpose of progressing towards more sustainable agricultural systems.

Industry partners pay a subscription fee to be part of SARIC and benefit from improved connectivity with the UK research base and early access to research and translation outcomes. This five year public-private partnership will result in approximately £10 million being invested to address key challenges identified by industry.

Further information

• Further information on SARIC (BBSRC website)
• Further information on the funded research projects (BBSRC website)