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Guinness launches regenerative agriculture pilot in Ireland

01 March 2022 By Eloise Feilden

Ireland has been selected by Guinness as the location for a three-year barley pilot which aims to drive positive outcomes for the planet and farmer livelihoods.

Barley grown during the pilot scheme will be used to brew Guinness.

In the first phase in 2022, the programme will begin with at least 40 farms across spring and winter barley sowing. They will be joined by a number of other farmers as the pilot develops.

John Kennedy, Diageo Europe president, commented: “This pilot is the first such programme being implemented by Diageo and the outcomes will help inform other potential opportunities, not just in Ireland, but in other countries where we source raw materials.”

Results from the pilot programme will be shared by the brewer for other farms to develop similar practices.

The three-year farming programme intends to explore methods of reducing the carbon emissions of barley production. Key outcomes intended for the scheme include:

Improvements in soil health and its carbon sequestration potential
Enhanced biodiversity
Reduction in synthetic fertiliser use
Enhanced water quality
Improved farmer livelihoods

Guinness will work in collaboration with Irish farmers and suppliers including, Boortmalt, Glanbia and Comex McKinnon, to understand the most effective regenerative practices, adapted to the local context and the specific needs of Irish barley production.

Walter Furlong Junior, one of the farmers involved in the pilot commented: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Guinness on this programme.

“The great thing about regenerative agriculture is the simplicity of the approach. It’s not a complicated process – it works in harmony with nature whilst providing a commercial benefit for farmers. We already use regenerative agricultural practices and have seen a marked improvement in the quality of the soil on our farm. It is a highly effective approach that leads to much better outcomes”.

The Minister for Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD, commented: “On behalf of the Government, I welcome the pilot announced by Guinness.

“This pilot shows the importance of sectors working together to reduce emissions. It is welcome that one of Ireland’s most iconic brands is taking a strong leadership position on farming and the environment, as we all work towards reducing carbon emissions and meeting our ambitious but necessary climate change targets.”

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