Michael Lee, Vice Chancellor, Harper Adams University explains why you should attend this conference here.

Embark on a transformative journey with an event that transcends conventional narratives to illuminate the multifaceted roles of livestock in shaping a sustainable future. Explore how responsible livestock management practices foster biodiversity conservation, harmonising ecosystems and safeguarding endangered species. Discover the transformative power of a circular bioeconomy, spotlighting livestock's pivotal role in creating value, minimising waste, and promoting sustainability. Delve into diverse economies, from biomethane production to sustainable phosphorus extraction, pharmaceutical development, and the utilisation of livestock-derived ingredients in clothing and cosmetics industries. Join us as we foster dialogue, innovation, and collaboration towards a more sustainable future powered by the untapped potential of livestock.

 

Attendees

This event caters to a broad audience interested in sustainability, agriculture, and innovation. Farmers and agricultural practitioners seeking sustainable livestock management techniques will find practical solutions. Researchers exploring biodiversity conservation, circular bioeconomy, and resource recovery will discover cutting-edge advancements. Professionals in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, clothing and renewable energy will learn about livestock-derived applications. Policymakers and environmental advocates can gain insights into shaping sustainable agricultural policies. Ultimately, this event welcomes all who wish to explore the transformative potential of livestock beyond food systems and contribute to a sustainable future.

For further information and prices, please email conferences@soci.org.

 

Programme - see speaker profile below.

10:00   Registration and refreshments

10.30    FAO's Livestock Agenda for ecosystem services and circular bioeconomy 

Prof Michael Lee, Harper Adams University, FAO’s Livestock Environmental Assessment and Performance (LEAP) technical advisory group

Session 1: Livestock as partners in ecosystem health and resilience

10:45    Promoting healthy and resilient livestock systems: A holistic perspective - Dr Lisa Norton, UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology 

11:00   The multidimensional role of livestock in supporting ecosystem services and biodiversity - Prof Davy McCracken, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) 

11:15   A policy-based view on the role of livestock on nature-friendly food production

11:30   Panel discussion

11:50   Refreshment break 

Session 2: Unlocking the hidden potential: Transforming livestock slurry into valuable resource

12:15   The place of biogas from slurry in the future role of bioenergy in the UK - Lucy Hopwood, National Non-Food Crops Centre (NNFCC)

12:30   Biomethane solutions for nutrient management - Dr Chris Johnston, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI)

12:45   Microanaerobic solutions for small livestock farmers - Dr Ilan Adler, University College London & EcoNomad Solutions

13:00   Panel discussion

13:20   Lunch, posters and exhibition

 

Session 3: From waste to wealth: Exploring bio-based products from livestock  

 

14:15   The role of animal by-products in bio-based industries and circular economy - Dr Stephen Woodgate, Beacon Consulting

14:30   Unlocking the vital role of animals in biopolymer pharmaceuticals - Prof Vitaliy Khutoryanskiy, University of Reading

14:45   Fabulous Fibre: Returning Value To The UK Wool Industry - Frank Langrish, Farmer, partner in Langrish Farmers

15:00   Panel discussion

15:30   Close