How can collaboration between farmers and researchers drive real change on the ground? In this LEAF Digs Deeper session, we explore how co-designed research is helping to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical farming decisions.

We’re joined by:
- Nick Down – Farm Manager at Yattendon Estate and Head of Sustainability at Velcourt Ltd.
- Dr Alice Mauchline – Associate Professor of Agricultural Ecology and Education at the University of Reading.

Together, they discuss the power of farmer-led innovation and why involving farmers from the very beginning is key to creating research that is relevant, practical, and impactful.

In this session, we cover:
- Why farmers are best placed to identify real-world challenges and shape research priorities.
- The importance of co-designed research for practical, on-farm application.
- How collaboration between farmers, researchers, and stakeholders leads to shared learning and fresh perspectives.
- The balance between scientific rigor and real-world farm constraints.

We also introduce a new ADOPT-funded project involving LEAF, Demonstration Farmers, and an Innovation Centre. This initiative explores how cover crop data can be used to optimise nutrient management and reduce reliance on synthetic nitrogen - while maintaining crop performance.
If you're interested in sustainable farming, applied research, and innovative approaches to agriculture, this session is not to be missed.

Support the show

Our latest LEAF Digs Deeper session takes a closer look at the vital role agriplastics play in modern farming and the growing need to improve how they are recovered and recycled.

From silage wrap to crop covers, agriplastics are essential tools for productivity and efficiency. However, as their use continues, so do the challenges around responsible disposal and recycling.

In this session, we explore:
- How better on-farm sorting, storage, and handling can significantly boost recycling outcomes
- Why used agriplastics should be treated as a valuable, recoverable resource not just waste
- The practical and financial barriers farmers currently face when managing plastic waste
- The need for stronger collaboration across industry, government, and supply chains to scale effective recycling systems

A key theme throughout is the importance of practical, joined-up solutions—approaches that fit the realities of farm businesses while moving agriculture towards a more circular and sustainable future.

Support the show

Climate-Smart Dairy: LEAF Digs Deeper – Key Insights

In this LEAF Digs Deeper session, we explore how climate-smart dairy practices are being applied on the ground to improve efficiency, resilience, and environmental performance. Featuring insights from Zoe Barker (University of Reading) on the SmartDairy Project and Sven Koops (CEDAR), the discussion highlights how better use of data, precision technologies, and herd management can reduce emissions, improve animal health and longevity, and boost farm efficiency—often without major infrastructure investment. The session also explores the role of policy stability, shared risk, and clear communication with consumers. Climate-smart dairy is about practical, data-driven decisions that deliver lasting benefits for farms, supply chains, and the environment.

Support the show