AgriCulture Live Episode 9 with guest Owen Atkinson - "Are Cows Ruining the Planet?"

04/16/24 • 36 min

Join us as we explore the transformative landscape of dairy farming with Owen Atkinson, the mastermind behind Dairy Veterinary Consultancy Limited. Owen, a dairy vet with a knack for innovation, shares his journey from a farm-bred scientist to an RCVS specialist, and how this path has fuelled his commitment to revolutionizing dairy cattle health. With a love for cows, he brings to the table a wealth of knowledge, highlighting the critical shift from reactive treatments to proactive disease prevention, a change that promises to redefine the industry's future.
Venture into the world of cows and climate with Owen, whose global perspective as a Nuffield Scholar unravels the historical significance of these gentle giants and their contentious role in today's environmental debates. We tackle the intricate balance of global warming and livestock, debunking myths while addressing genuine concerns about methane emissions. Owen's insights into regenerative agriculture offer a glimpse into the potential harmony between farming practices and ecological sustainability, challenging us to re-evaluate the narratives we've been told about agriculture's environmental footprint.
Wrapping up our enlightening discussion, we focus on improving cow welfare and the ongoing quest to attract fresh talent into the sacred art of farming. Owen's passion for the welfare of these creatures shines through as we contemplate innovative strategies for elevating their quality of life. Furthermore, we contemplate the regenerative agriculture movement's promise to rejuvenate the bond between land, farmer and society. This episode is not just a dialogue but a call to action, inviting listeners to witness the evolution of an industry and animals at the heart of human civilisation.

Previous Episode

AgriCulture Live Episode 8 with guest Jack Potter from Wild Capital - "Biodiversity, Net Gain and Nutrient Neutrality"

AgriCulture Live Episode 8 with guest Jack Potter from Wild Capital - "Biodiversity, Net Gain and Nutrient Neutrality"
Embark on an enlightening journey with Jack Potter from Wild Capital, where we navigate the verdant pathways of biodiversity, net gain, and nutrient neutrality. Jack's transition from his roots in farming to a beacon of conservation in the private sector illuminates a fascinating narrative that is both personal and profound. Our conversation stands as a testament to Wild Capital's innovative land acquisition strategies and unyielding dedication to safeguarding our natural heritage. It's a riveting tale that underscores the critical need for a steadfast commitment to environmental preservation, offering a glimpse into how they're pioneering the charge towards a sustainable future.
The world of biodiversity conservation is not just a treasure trove of natural wonders—it's also brimming with career opportunities for those eager to make a difference. We showcase the intersection of nature's intrinsic value with its growing economic recognition, painting a vivid picture of how services like pollination and water purification are finally getting their due. Jack and I dissect the plethora of career trajectories available within this expanding sphere, from accessible entry points to niche expertise roles that are in high demand. Listeners poised at the cusp of their professional lives will find pearls of wisdom here, along with actionable guidance to springboard into impactful careers in conservation.
Finally, we scrutinize the intricate balance of environmental conservation against the backdrop of urban development. By deciphering the complexities of biodiversity metrics and nutrient neutrality, we illuminate the strategies that reconcile progress with the planet's well-being. We confront the challenges of offsetting environmental impacts and the ephemeral nature of current nutrient neutrality measures, while also anticipating a promising future where urban planning harmonizes with environmental integrity. This episode is a deep dive into the future of conservation, agriculture, and the burgeoning role of private investment in fostering a greener tomorrow.

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AgriCulture Live Episode 10 with John Giles of Promar International - "Issues Affecting the UK Agri-Food Market"

Venture into the dynamic world of agri-food markets with the guidance of John Giles, a seasoned expert at Promar International. Our latest episode brings to light the transformative shifts in UK agriculture through John's lens, as he draws upon his rich experiences across 60 nations and deep involvement in agricultural commodities. From the omnipresent specter of climate change to the burgeoning realm of sustainable and low-carbon practices, we navigate the intricate pathways that are redefining the essence of farming and food production not only within the British Isles but on a global scale.
The second segment of our conversation pivots to the gritty realities of supply chain management – a veritable battlefield where businesses wage war against inflation, soaring labour costs, and the capricious tide of global logistics. But it's not just about survival; it's a nuanced debate over the equity of food pricing. Listen closely as we dissect the seismic impact that supermarket giants and discount retailers are having on the industry, altering consumer expectations and revolutionizing the market before our very eyes. John's expertise illuminates the myriad of strategies companies deploy to stay afloat amidst the challenges of an ever-changing economic landscape.
As we cast our gaze toward the horizon, the future of the agri-food workforce unfurls with promise and potential. The episode's closing act scrutinizes how the current geopolitical maelstrom and climate quandaries are not merely hurdles but spurs to innovation and change, reshaping not just the supply chain but the very careers within it. The expanding mosaic of talent and expertise required in this sector spotlights the emergence of diverse roles, from sustainability directors to tech-savvy farmers. For those ignited by this dialogue, we open the doors to continued discourse and networking, beckoning our audience to join the critical exchange on the trajectory of agri-food markets.

AgriCulture Live - AgriCulture Live Episode 9 with guest Owen Atkinson - "Are Cows Ruining the Planet?"

Transcript

Rebekah00:00:01.864

Hello and welcome to Agriculture Live . My name is Rebekah Shields , I'm from Agricultural Recruitment Specialists and today joining me we've got Owen Atkinson . He's an owner and director at Dairy Veterinary Consultancy Limited . He's also a Nuffield Scholar , a Cow Signals Trainer and an RCVS Specialist Dairy . That is all a mouthful , there , isn't it ? Owen Yeah , morning Rebekah I th