Dialogue with stakeholders is an important part of the CircAgric-GHG project. Project partner Bangor University have arranged two online workshops with industry and policy representatives, and interviews (online and on-farm) with farmers. Opportunities and barriers to adopting circular practices in UK agriculture were explored, and key factors influencing farmers’ decision-making towards adoption were revealed. Stakeholders shared a positive perception and clear understanding of the concept of circularity, but awareness of the term was lacking. Targeted and trusted advisory support was desired by farmers, whilst they saw incentivisation through future government payment schemes as a key enabler. Regulation was perceived as a major barrier, such as limits on the quantity and timing of manure application, planning permission for renewable energy projects, and use of alternative feed ingredients (e.g., food waste streams). Nevertheless, positive reframing of government policy to include circularity as a major net zero strategy, whilst raising awareness and communicating the benefits of circular practices, will likely enhance its adoption. PhD Researcher Ffion Evans made this figure to summarize the findings.

Read more about the UK workshops in this brief research summary report.