Recent changes to higher-level farm assurance schemes and certification body standards are raising the bar on important sustainable farming agendas which include enhancing biodiversity and nature conservation. As a result of these changes, a number of assurance bodies now require businesses to have documented plans in place to promote wildlife, protect the environment and enhance nature conservation.
LEAF Marque Standard
The LEAF Marque Standard is a leading global assurance system recognising more sustainably farmed products. Within these environmentally focused standards, there is a requirement for the following:
- A documented Landscape and Nature Conservation Audit (including map).
- An implemented Landscape and Nature Conservation Enhancement Plan.
- The Landscape and Nature Conservation Enhancement Plan to be an integral part of the farming system.
Arla 360
Through Arla UK 360, farmers continuously explore, develop, and practice the highest standards in dairy farming across six key areas of farm business. As part of this standard:
- Farms must have taken active steps to improve biodiversity and provision of wildlife habitats.
- Farms must have a written plan and implement five environmental features. Examples include hedgerow maintenance and installation, tree planting, bird and bat boxes, the use of cover crops, and wild bird seed mixtures.
Soil Association
Soil Association Certification is the UK’s leading organic certification body and details the obligations of organic farmers to protect the environment through its standards. Activities must benefit or contribute to high levels of biodiversity and the protection of ecologically significant habitats through conservation and enhancement. The following is outlined within the standards:
- Any ecologically significant habitats that form part of the holding or are affected by the holding must be identified.
- Any measures taken or implemented to ensure these areas and habitats are protected and / or enhanced must be described.
At CXCS we provide a service for producing bespoke biodiversity and nature conservation plans to meet the individual requirements of your assurance or certification scheme. For more information, please contact us on 01981 590514.
