Northumberland

Putting farmers first: How tackling emissions can sustain rural life and livelihoods in Northumberland

Northumberland is tackling land-based emissions in ways that support the people and places behind them. With agriculture responsible for over 22 percent of emissions in the county, the council and Rural Design Centre have worked with more than 130 farmers to co-design support that works in practice.

Rather than engaging only with agriculture industry bodies, they have met farmers where they are, from auction marts to kitchen tables, to understand the pressures they face and the help they need. The team is showing how climate action can align with business priorities by linking sustainability with profitability.

They have created tools like the Little Green Book, a directory of trusted local services, and identified carbon-neutral farms already operating in the county. These farms show the real benefits of climate action in practice and help build confidence in what is possible elsewhere.

Find out more

If you are interested in learning how to transform your community, town or city, then read the Citizen Engagement on Net Zero report. If you would like to speak to someone about this project, contact the Net Zero Living team.