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Prince William Engages in Sustainable Practices at Herefordshire Farm
During a recent trip to Lower Blakemere Farm in Herefordshire, the Prince of Wales enthusiastically participated in sustainability efforts, even picking up worms from a bucket of compost.
The visit, which lasted around an hour, was focused on understanding the farm’s initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Lower Blakemere Farm is part of the Duchy of Cornwall estate.
Prince William expressed his amazement at the composting setup, exclaiming, “Oh my goodness, look at that – that’s amazing!” His hands-on approach included climbing onto a seed drill and inspecting solar panels installed on the farm.
Farm tenants Phil and Heather Gorringe shared insights about the Japanese bokashi composting method, which utilizes unique fermentation techniques. This method inspired them to launch their business, Wiggly Wigglers, from their kitchen table, providing composting kits to promote eco-friendly practices.
Following the demonstration, Mrs. Gorringe remarked, “He got right in there. He was eager to understand how the bokashi method works, which he had not encountered before. His interest extended to whether such a system could be scaled for broader agricultural use.”
She later described the Prince as a “gentle nice guy” and noted that he was “miles taller than I ever imagined.”
Lower Blakemere Farm has been designated as one of seven “focus farms” by the Duchy to innovate greener food production methods and disseminate best practices throughout the agricultural community.
Set up in the early 1980s as a specialist seed grower, the farm is home to a herd of South Devon cattle and emphasizes enhancing soil health while promoting biodiversity.
Mrs. Gorringe noted the significance of the visit, stating, “We feel fortunate to have this opportunity. It’s uplifting for our team and reinforces that we’re contributing positively, especially as a focus farm for the Duchy.”
She highlighted the challenges faced by farmers in transitioning to regenerative practices. “Many of us dispose of kitchen waste in landfills or centralized composting facilities. By utilizing that waste at home, we can cut down on carbon emissions, minimize transport, and repurpose what would otherwise be discarded.”
Prince William inherited the Duchy, a significant estate and property portfolio, following the passing of his grandmother, Elizabeth II, in September 2022. For the financial year 2023-24, the Duchy reported profits of £23.6 million.
During his visit, the Prince observed a new grain store and various regenerative farming tools in action, including a large seed drill.
He is gradually implementing changes that reflect his commitment to sustainability and is focused on achieving “expansive transformation” within the Duchy. His ambition includes reaching net-zero emissions by 2032, a goal initially set forth by his father, the King, during his tenure as Prince of Wales.
In response to the greenhouse gas emissions attributed to its operations, the Duchy established a Future Farming team. According to its latest annual report, published last June, the focus farms are already seen as “beacons of best practice” in sustainable agriculture.
Source
www.yahoo.com