ANDREWS ASIAN ADVENTURE
From the South West of England to Okinawa, Japan, my journey delved into the world of Effective Microorganisms (EM) and Japanese agriculture. Despite missing the cherry blossoms, the trip was filled with enriching experiences. A standout was my visit to Miyazakien, a Japanese Tea Garden, where I met Atsushi Umemura, a testament to dedication and business excellence. Join me in my Asian Adventures as I share insights and inspirations from this unforgettable journey. Enjoy the read!
SOIL THE HAPPY DRUG
The pharmaceutical and food industries have led many to believe they hold the secret to happiness and health. But guess what? There are other solutions right under our noses and feet!
What to put in your bokashi bin
WRAP estimates that the UK discards 9.5 million tonnes of food waste yearly, a substantial portion of which was initially fit for consumption. This contributes to over 25 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually.
To combat this, Bokashi fermentation offers a solution. Unlike traditional composting, Bokashi doesn't emit foul odors. It efficiently breaks down various organic waste items, such as fruit and vegetable peelings, meat, dairy, and even paper products.
ENSURING POND HEALTH
As spring breathes life into the garden, the pond demands attention. The gardener meticulously tends to equipment, cleanses the pond, and reintroduces its inhabitants. Nutrient-rich fertilisers and beneficial bacteria ensure a thriving ecosystem. In summer's warmth, algae pose a challenge, but the gardener confronts them with natural remedies. Autumn prompts preparation for winter, adjusting fish diets and pruning plants. As winter descends, the pond enters dormancy, its caretaker ensuring a peaceful retreat until spring's return.
Social Farms & Gardens
Recap of Social Farms & Gardens sold-out members' session special on Bokashi composting
Bish Bash BOKASHI
Discover the revolution in waste management with FINANCIAL TIMES! Are you tired of traditional composting methods? Say hello to bokashi composting! Transform your kitchen scraps into extraordinary fermented compost with ease. No more worries about stench or rats—just sweet pickle-like aroma and nutrient-rich compost for your soil. Developed by Professor Teruo Higa in Japan, bokashi utilizes a special bran filled with beneficial microorganisms. Join the movement towards sustainable living and healthier soil with Agriton. Whether for domestic use or municipal projects, bokashi offers a simple solution with profound environmental benefits. Take control of your waste and contribute to a greener future.
Harnessing the Power of Effective Microorganisms (EM) Silage Additives
Effective Microorganisms (EM) have revolutionized farming since 1982. In Europe, Agriton's EM Silage, powered by Saccharomyces cerevisiae, sets the standard. This yeast enhances fermentation, boosts energy content, and acts as a potent preservative. With Agriton's support, EM Silage ensures top-notch quality and sustainability in silage production
BEE POSITIVE
In a world increasingly aware of the urgent need for environmental action, the call to embrace a 'nature positive' mindset resonates louder than ever. With vast expanses of private gardens spanning the UK, comprising an area nearly twice the size of Somerset, individuals hold significant power in shaping ecosystems. As cities devote nearly 30% of their domestic space to gardens, the potential for positive change becomes apparent. Amidst climate and biodiversity crises, the imperative to transition towards a nature-positive approach by 2030, as highlighted in a recent report involving the UK’s statutory nature agencies, becomes paramount. But what exactly does 'nature positive' entail? It goes beyond mere mitigation efforts; it demands proactive measures to enhance the planet and its biodiversity. As Francesca Osowska, chief executive of NatureScot, asserts, it is the collective responsibility of all to adopt this ethos. Amidst these challenges, the plight of bees emerges as a focal point. Their crucial role in pollination underscores the significance of creating bee-friendly habitats within our gardens. With innovative solutions like Actiferm and BeeWellness®, opportunities arise to not only support biodiversity but also foster healthier ecosystems. Embracing such alternatives represents a tangible step towards a more sustainable and nature-positive future.
Bokashi v Compost
The agricultural sector in the UK is facing increased scrutiny for its greenhouse emissions, prompting governments worldwide to introduce ambitious targets and new legislation. The Environmental Land Management scheme (ELMs), replacing the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), emphasises public funding for public goods, prioritising landscape management, watercourse protection, and emissions reduction. This shift towards environmental stewardship has led to a resurgence of traditional farming methods and a focus on soil regeneration and carbon sequestration. Bokashi, a fermented organic matter, emerges as a promising solution, demonstrated in trials to increase soil organic matter, improve nutrient content, boost crop yields, and reduce carbon loss compared to traditional composting methods. These findings align with ELMs objectives, highlighting the potential of regenerative agriculture to address environmental challenges while ensuring agricultural sustainability and food security.