The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) has been introduced as one of the environmental schemes under the Agricultural Transition Plan. This supports farmers in managing their land in environmentally sustainable ways, whilst simultaneously boosting food production. Farmers under the scheme will be paid to provide benefits to the public. For example improved water quality, biodiversity and animal health and welfare. Defra is scheduled to announce further information about the six new standards which have been added to the scheme, in a push by the Government to ensure the environment is at the centre of farming.
The details of the six new standards within the SFI will be announced by Defra this month (June 2023). However the official announcement date has not been confirmed as of yet. The way in which farmers are able to use the SFI scheme will also be announced. This should provide farmers with a broader use for their land. The six new standards allow farmers to carry out activities in a more environmentally sustainable way. To produce food as well as goods and services. The six new standards are nutrient management, integrated pest management, hedgerows, arable and horticulture land, improved grassland, and no/low input grassland, all building on the existing three standards; arable and horticulture soils, improved grassland soils and the moorland standard.
Replacing EU Subsidies
The Sustainable Farming Incentive is aimed to replace the EU subsidies which were available to farmers and are now being replaced following Brexit. The scheme ultimately rewards farmers for environmentally friendly work, from protecting wildlife to enhancing countryside landscapes. The payments available for the six new standards still require further information. However, they will allow farmers to obtain these rewards for their positive environmental impacts. Farmers have also been encouraged to apply to the SFI as quickly as possible when it is available to do so. This will in turn provide further security for their businesses.
The acknowledgement of the importance of farmers by Thérèse Coffey is the key driving factor for the incentive. The establishment of upcoming farming schemes like the Sustainable Farming Incentive supports farmers financially. They also encourage the overall protection of the environment and a boost of food production in the UK.
The Government has highlighted how it is possible to leave the scheme early if desired, without a penalty if the land you have entered into the scheme is lost unpredictably. The scheme aims to reduce the cost of farming activities and actions. Thus improving the overall efficiency and productivity of farms across the UK whilst improving the environment.
SFI Applications
Applications for the SFI are open. There is currently no deadline meaning farmers can apply whenever they are prepared to do so. Eligibility to the scheme must be checked before applying. Further information of which can be found at Sustainable Farming Incentive guidance – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). The application process is completely online, in the Rural Payments service where applicants sign in using their existing details.
Are you a farmer or landowner, and would like further information about the scheme or advice with your application? Our team can help. Please contact your local office on:
Atherstone: 01827 718021
Ashby-de-la-Zouch: 01530 877977
Rugby: 01788 564666
Towcester: 01327 353575
