Intensive poultry and pig production in the UK is increasingly affecting water quality and pollution levels in Britain’s countryside.
An independent report, ‘Quantifying the Environmental Risks from Pig and Poultry Production in the UK’, commissioned by The Wildlife Trust, reveals the staggering scale of intensive production concentrated in “hotspot” areas, indicating a pressing need for a better legislative framework to manage these risks.
Waste, Feed, Fertilisers, and Pesticides
Waste generated from pig and poultry production reaches about 10.4 million cubic metres annually in the UK, equivalent to 4,160 Olympic-sized swimming pools. The high nutrient levels in this waste complicate sustainable disposal methods.
Furthermore, over one-third of the UK’s total wheat production is allocated for animal feed, leading to increased use of fertilisers and pesticides which aggravate pollution and place additional stress on local wildlife.
Concentrated Industries in the UK
The report by consultant Cumulus highlights that more than half of England’s poultry is concentrated within just 10 council areas, while pig production is even more concentrated, occurring in only 5 local authorities. This high density raises the likelihood of substantial waste accumulation in nearby rivers and environments.
Poultry Sector Overview
In England, there are 2,485 specialist poultry holdings, with 19% located in the Eastern region, 14% in the East Midlands, and notable distributions in the South West and Yorkshire and Humberside. Wales, particularly Powys, has seen poultry numbers surge from just over 1 million in 2007 to around 5 million in 2020.
Pig Sector Concentration
While pig units are spread across the UK, they are often highly concentrated. Of the 1,772 registered specialist pig holdings, 30% are located in Yorkshire and Humberside. Notably, 15% of England’s breeding pig population is situated within North Yorkshire alone. In Northern Ireland, two district councils account for 66% of the pig breeding herd.
Impact on Water and Wildlife
The unchecked release of nitrogen and phosphorus from these industries negatively impacts water quality and disrupts local ecosystems. Barnaby Coupe, senior land use policy manager at The Wildlife Trusts, noted that the research illustrates— for the first time— the extensive nature of risks associated with these practices.
“The significant effects of pig and poultry production extend beyond the farms, necessitating urgent action to mitigate environmental harm,” Coupe emphasized. He called for the implementation of nutrient management action plans and reforms in permitting regimes, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support from both the government and the agricultural sector.
Pesticides and Fertilisers in Agriculture
The report reveals that over half a million hectares are devoted to growing feedstock for pig and poultry, using a variety of pesticides and fertilisers that ultimately harm soil health and pollute nearby waterways.
The Future of Farming in England
Coupe pointed out that the government is formulating significant policies— including the Land Use Framework and Water Reform Bill. These initiatives must address the extensive environmental impact of the pig and poultry sector.
According to Coupe, the findings highlight the necessity for cooperative solutions involving both the supply chain and governmental bodies to foster a transition towards less polluting systems that preserve the integrity of rivers and comply with climate targets.
This call to action has been welcomed by advocates like River Action. Their chief executive, James Wallace, urged the government to act swiftly by providing incentives for farmers.
Contrasting Perspectives from the Farming Sector
However, the findings have been met with criticism from representatives of the British Poultry Council and the National Pig Association. They argue that the report mischaracterizes the farming practices and existing regulations, emphasizing that they are already among the most regulated within agriculture.
Richard Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Poultry Council, defended the industry’s practices, stating that they prioritize environmental considerations. Meanwhile, Lizzie Wilson, Chief Executive of the National Pig Association, noted that their sector contributes minimally to pollution incidents compared to others within agriculture.
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