The free internet-based service allows farmers and land managers to calculate the level of greenhouse gas emissions produced by agricultural businesses.

It enables farmers to carry out a thorough review of their enterprise, and the CLA believes it will become a vital element of future carbon trading plans.

The idea of a carbon calculator was first aired earlier this year at the Oxford Farming Conference. Speaking at the event, UK Environment Secretary Hilary Benn and Sustainable Development Commission chairman Sir Jonathon Porritt claimed livestock farming was responsible for 18 per cent of emissions – totalling more than the entire transport sector including aviation.

Although the claims were countered by Food Climate Research Network, which estimates UK meat and dairy consumption at eight per cent of total UK emissions, there is still an need to reduce the impact, says CLA.

Quantified Results

Its carbon calculator, named Calm, has now been launched and is in practice at the 700 hectare – 1,730-acre – Penllyn Estate Farm, Llwynhelig, Cowbridge in Wales. The lowland agri-business is managed by CLA vice chairman John Homfray, and stocks 1,000 cattle, 600 sheep and mixed arable crops and forestry. The enterprise produces around 2,800 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent and absorbs around 1,000 tonnes.

Mr Homfray said the calculator enabled him to quantify to a high degree of accuracy the emissions, which are mainly from livestock, on his 700 hectare – 1,730-acre – lowland estate and to think about what he needs to do to sequester or absorb more carbon.

For more information and to use the CALM service visit: www.CLA

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