A brand new short documentary by filmmaker, Ruth Garrett of Kittiwake Productions uncovers how farming can support the environment as well as food production.
“All we’re doing is turning solar power into summat to eat…”
In the film Yorkshire Dales farmer and former Trustee of Friends of the Dales, Anthony Bradley shares a candid and at times humorous insight into some of the science behind grazing cattle in a traditional, rotational way − a methodology that makes economic sense as well as being carbon neutral.
“The best part for me… was getting to know subject of my film… just listening to (Anthony) talk about these issues and to be able to hear the passion he has for his way of life and farming was incredible,” said Ruth, the recipient of one of 10 New Perspective bursaries from Campaign for National Parks; a scheme aimed at 18–35-year-olds from a diverse range of backgrounds with a story to tell about the National Parks in England and Wales.
In the 5.5 minute film entitled Cultivating Carbon and Cows, Anthony explains how his farming methods are at the forefront of changing how farmers can mitigate the climate breakdown.
Chief Executive of Campaign for National Parks, Rose O’Neill said: “Farming is at the heart of our National Parks, and farmers are absolutely key to offering solutions in tackling the climate and nature crises in these landscapes. That’s why we are calling for governments in England and Wales to commit to new legislation to prioritise nature recovery across National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
“We also want to see enhanced, sustained and long term payments for farmers to deliver nature recovery at a landscape scale, creating ambitious opportunities for climate action and public access.”
In the film, Anthony tells Ruth: “Sometimes the science is the most interesting bit of farming. If I measure stuff and that helps me spend less money, that’s a good thing, but that doesn’t mean I’m uninterested in the ‘bunny hugger’ stuff. Even the most soulless amongst farmers still like to see the wildlife.
“There are multiple benefits for my livestock as well as for the environment; I get a huge amount of pleasure from being able to do both things at once – to tick boxes for what farmers might call the bunny huggers, but I’m helping myself as well – It’s not pure altruism at all.”
To find out more about the other New Perspective finalists visit: https://www.cnp.org.uk/news