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Biomass Connect Demo: Miscanthus: Unlocking Opportunities for Carbon Sequestration and Biodiversity Enhancement
October 9 @ 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
You are invited to join us for an afternoon Demo Event: “Miscanthus: Unlocking Opportunities for Carbon Sequestration and Biodiversity Enhancement”.
This gathering brings together experts and stakeholders to explore the multifaceted benefits of growing Miscanthus. The event will delve into the economic opportunities, the latest innovations in breeding and agronomy, and the role of carbon capture in our fight against climate change.
The event will be hosted by Bishop Burton College near Beverley. Please go to reception on arrival and you will be directed to follow the signs to the Insitute of Technology building.
Introductory talks
1pm: meet for refreshments.
1.30: Introduction to the work of the college, followed by an introdution to the Biomass Connect project and highlighting the information resources available.
We will then have 3 flash talks
Why Grow Miscanthus: Terravesta will discuss the markets and economics of Miscanthus cultivation, detailing the financial and environmental benefits.
Miscanthus research and practical application: Researchers will share some of the work underpinning how Miscanthus is grown today, and consider what research advances will mean for on-farm practice in the future.
Perennial biomass crops and carbon: Researchers from UKCEH and PBC4GGR will discuss how incorporating biomass crops into farming sytems can contribute to decarbonising agriculture.
Field visit
At 2.30 we will head out to the field to look at the Miscanthus crop and the willow & Miscanthus plot trials and consider:
- Soil carbon: how soil cores for carbon measurement are taken, and some typical findings.
- Biodiversity: Rebecca Rowe (UKCEH) will explain the importance of biodiversity and on farm techniques to measure biodiversity in perennial biomass crop plantations.
- Carbon balances: UKCEH staff will discuss how eddy covariance towers and weather data are used in conjunction with crop measurements to determine carbon balances.
- Researchers and industry experts will also be on hand to discuss Miscanthus as livestock bedding, willow breeding and agronomy, and the practicalities of perennial biomass crops.