YOUNG farmers in Cumbria have been urged to take part in an industry virtual net zero video challenge.

The new virtual challenge is to encourage positive climate change action with the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (NFYFC) asking young farmers to share their solutions for achieving net zero emissions by 2040.

Supported by Defra and working with industry partners, including the National Farmers Union (NFU) and Championing the Farmed Environment (CFE), the competition aims to help YFC members and next generation farmers take charge of their futures by becoming climate change advocates for UK agriculture.

The challenge will involve sharing ideas or practical examples on topics such as on-farm applications for carbon capture and storing and renewable energy, in an effort to aid the NFU’s net zero ambition.

NFYFC’s YFC agriculture chairman George Baxter said: “By taking part in the video challenge, YFC members and next generation farmers can play an active part in helping to achieve the net zero ambition, share ideas and most importantly, have their voices heard in high places.

"As we emerge from the current Covid-19 restrictions, you could be representing the voice of UK young farmers at home and internationally.”

The Government has set a target of reaching net zero emissions by 2050 but the NFU’s ambitious goal for agriculture, in particular, is set for 2040.

Stuart Roberts, the deputy president of the NFU, said:“Our young farmers are going to be crucial in helping to steer the industry and the country towards a net zero future.

"More than ever we need new ideas and we need to create an environment for everyone’s voice to be heard.”