Nine low carbon farming projects are to share a £500k fund created by Waitrose to help British farmers transition to net zero.

It wants UK farmers it uses to be net zero by 2035 and hopes that its entire supply chain will be net zero by 2050.

More than 2,000 farmers applied for the funding, which has been handed to farm projects focusing on issues including establishing wild habitats, recycling water and converting waste into fertiliser.

A dairy farms emissions management service is also being fnded. This includes vists to farms to measure their net zero progress and trialling a farm manager platform to test and identify low carbon interventions in real time.

Among funded projects is a beef farm's introduction of an agroforestry system and wildflower planting to combat water runoff, improve biodiversity and provide shade for cattle.

Meanwhile, egg farmers are involved in planting willow trees to help tackle climate change and improve bird welfare.

Egg producer Clair Brettell is among recipients of funding. She said: "As organic egg producers, we’re always talking about improving bird welfare and encouraging biodiversity on the fields where our hens range.

“The net zero grant fund by Waitrose is a fabulous initiative to support farmers. We’re excited to be working with Waitrose on our project, to have a positive impact on the environment and lead to more sustainable practices on our farm."

In addition, egg and broccoli farms will be trailing using fertiliser made through converting poultry litter.

“We're really pleased to be able to support our farmers with projects that will not only help drive down real emissions but help them invest in their futures,” said Waitrose managing director James Bailey.

“It's a challenging time for farmers, yet we saw a real ambition from applicants to the fund to drive forward climate and nature friendly farming.

“We're excited to see the projects come to life and all the amazing benefits they will bring.”

The UK government has welcomed the funding. Minister for food security and rural affairs Daniel Zeichner said: “I’m extremely pleased to see new funds, such as Waitrose’s net zero farm fund, support the adoption of low carbon farming practices.”

“Funds such as these complement the government’s focus on ensuring farming becomes more profitable and businesses are viable for the future – delivering the long-term food security this country needs while protecting nature’s capacity to provide the stable climate, clean water and healthy soils that make farming possible.”

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