With its origins in the 2011 AD Strategy and Action Plan, this document was proposed to capture and ‘signpost’ sources of guidance for growers of crop feedstocks. Government ministers and officials have sought reassurance that any additional environmental risks from growing crops for AD can be managed and mitigated through a code of good practice.
Despite significant delays in drafting and approval, as well as shifts in the policy context and political purpose of the guidelines, there has been universal agreement about the value of advocating practices which address possible risks in the production of maize, beet, triticale and other AD crops, drawing upon existing good farming guidance.
The NFU acknowledges the perseverance of the Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Association (ADBA) in finalising and publishing the document.
Formally endorsing the guidelines, Defra minister Dan Rogerson MP wrote: “I very much welcome the Code of Practice on the use of crops in AD. The Government wants to see a greater use of waste in AD but where these systems use crops, the code provides a good start in order to highlight best growing practice and takes on board environmental concerns.”
Dr. Jonathan Scurlock, NFU Chief Adviser on Renewable Energy, added: “We are very pleased to see the publication of this cross-industry guidance. Over the past couple of years, the NFU has been closely involved in the development of this useful document, which sets high standards for this emerging new industry and addresses many of the concerns that have been raised by the government and other stakeholders."
The NFU recognises that AD can help to deliver multiple environmental benefits, including low-carbon energy, avoidance of methane emissions, improved nutrient and soil management, and effective crop rotations to manage pests, weeds and diseases. However, we continue to monitor a broad range of farmers' opinions about AD and to discuss our policy position with the NFU’s membership.
The document can be downloaded below, and is also available on the ADBA web site along with a press release.