In this week’s episode, we were thrilled to speak with Bryce Cunningham, the passionate founder and Managing Director of Mossgiel Organic Farm. Bryce’s journey is one of innovation, sustainability, and resilience, and it’s a story that resonates deeply with those looking to make areal difference in the agricultural and food industries.
Bryce’s path into organic farming wasn’t a straightforward one. After his family’s dairy farm faced bankruptcy in 2015 due to a collapsing milk price, the death of his father, and the loss of their milk buyer, Bryce found himself at a crossroads. Instead of giving up, he chose to reinvent his family’s farm and venture into organic farming. With a clear vision to challenge the dominance of large-scale industrial dairy, Mossgiel Farm was born with a commitment to sustainability.
At Mossgiel Organic Farm, sustainability is at the core of everything they do. From the way they produce milk to how they package and deliver it, every step is designed with the planet in mind. Bryce and his team have slashed packaging by 95% and reduced carbon emissions by 87%, setting new standards for the industry.
The farm operates on a circular model, working in collaboration with five other organic farms to produce rich compost using coffee waste from their coffee shop and chocolate husks from local chocolate makers. This compost not only enriches the soil but helps foster biodiversity and enhances the farm’s sustainability. And speaking of chocolate, Bryce’s innovative spirit has even led to the creation of a delicious chocolate milk made from leftover chocolate husks—transforming a waste product into a fantastic new offering!
One of the most innovative aspects of Mossgiel’s operations is their “Cow with Calf” farming method, which is a rare approach in Scotland. This system allows cows and calves to remain together, fostering better animal welfare and a more natural approach to dairy farming. While this method may reduce milk production, Bryce sees it as a vital step towards challenging conventional practices and promoting a more humane, ethical way of farming.
Despite the challenges of growing a small-scale organic farm, Mossgiel’s commitment to sustainability and ethical farming is paying off. They now supply milk to over 100 schools and nurseries, and large companies are recognising the value of their waste-free, organic approach. The farm’s goal is to continue growing responsibly, with plans to expand their capacity, improve technology, and even explore new products.
Bryce is also keen to support the next generation of farmers. He encourages young people interested in farming to engage with the industry, debunking the outdated stereotype of farming as a grumpy, traditional occupation. He notes the shift in attitude, particularly with social media, and how it’s creating exciting opportunities for those passionate about food sustainability and innovation.
Looking ahead, Bryce and his team are focused on expanding Mossgiel’s reach and impact. With new dairy facilities in the works, a growing herd, and exciting new products on the horizon, the future is bright for Mossgiel Organic Farm. As Bryce says, their mission is to prove that small-scale farming can be just as sustainable, if not more so, than large industrial operations.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in our upcoming episodes. Until then, keep supporting local, sustainable, and innovative food producers like Mossgiel Organic Farm!
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Environmental News Updates 🌍
Panic and Terror as Fire Hits Scotland Battery Recycler
A recent fire at a battery recycling facility in Kilwinning has raised alarms, marking another devastating incident nearly a year after the previous blaze. The fire, which required a large-scale emergency response, highlights ongoing safety concerns in the battery recycling industry. Jane and Alasdair reflect on the importance of better risk management and safety measures as we move towards more sustainable waste processing.
The Green Fuel Debate: Is HVO Diesel Really Green?
The BBC recently uncovered a worrying issue with HVO (Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil) diesel, potentially being fraudulently made from virgin palm oil instead of waste oils. Alasdair discusses the implications of greenwashing in the biofuel industry and how some companies may be misleading consumers about the sustainability of their products. Meanwhile, Jane emphasises the complexity of green fuels and the need for transparency in environmental claims.
Celebrating 50 Years of Environmental Legislation
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first Control of Pollution Act, which set the groundwork for today’s environmental protection laws. Jane and Alasdair reminisce about how far the waste management industry has come, from the original COPA to the Environment Protection Act 1990, and how new legislation continues to evolve. The focus is now on improving performance reporting and ensuring that businesses adhere to their environmental responsibilities.
SEPA’s New Consultation on Environmental Performance Reporting
SEPA has launched a new consultation on the Environmental Performance Assessment Scheme, which aims to offer a fairer way for businesses to report their environmental practices. Alasdair highlights the importance of this initiative, especially as businesses look for clearer guidelines on how to meet their sustainability targets. Jane sees this as a crucial step towards enhancing accountability and transparency in the sector.
Make sure your voice is heard and share your views here.
Scottish Government Considers Extending Landfill
Ban Exemptions
The Scottish Government is considering changes to the upcoming ban on landfill for biodegradable municipal waste, particularly focusing on the rural food waste exemption. Jane and Alasdair delve into the issue, discussing the ongoing challenges in rural areas and the potential for expanding food waste collections across Scotland. The consultation on this matter closes on June17th. Find out more about the consultation here
Struggles with Commercial Waste and Incineration Capacity
As the landfill ban looms, Alasdair raises concerns about the growing pressure on incineration capacity for commercial waste, particularly for materials containing persistent organic pollutants (POPs). He discusses the increasing difficulties faced by commercial operators in securing incineration space and the need for long-term solutions.
The Mystery of GDPR and Reporting in Waste Management
Alasdair and Jane explore a curious issue within waste management reporting, where GDPR rules seem to prohibit the inclusion of names on official reports. They discuss the practical implications for businesses and how this could affect the transparency of waste management operations.
Albion News
Alasdair Meets Royalty During Exciting Visit to North-East Farm
Alasdair had the honour of meeting Princess Anne during a visit to Charles Gray’s composting facility in Port Soy. The innovative farm uses satellite technology to monitor soil health and optimise fertilisation, revolutionising the farming process. The visit highlighted how technology is reshaping agriculture.
Jane’s Rant: A Frustrating Visit to the Local Recycling Centre
Jane shares her frustrations after a disappointing visit to her local waste recycling centre, citing a lack of clear signage and poor organisation. She urges that proper signage and better facilities are essential to make recycling easier for the public. Alasdair agrees, stressing that basic infrastructure improvements could greatly enhance recycling efforts.
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Rubbish Talk Strava Club: The Challenge Continues
The Rubbish Talk Strava Club is a fun, supportive community where we celebrate every mile, minute, and movement – no matter your pace. Whether you’re walking the dog, running marathons, or hopping on the bike for a spin, every activity counts. With weekly shout-outs, monthly challenges, and the perfect podcast to keep you company while you move, it’s a great way to stay motivated and connect with like-minded legends.
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