IBERS Showcases Resilient Crop Research at Groundswell 2025

Location: Lannock Farm, Hertfordshire, SG4 7EE
Dates: 25–26 June 2025

The Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) was proud to represent Aberystwyth University at this year’s Groundswell Festival, the UK’s leading event for regenerative agriculture. Held at Lannock Farm in Hertfordshire, the festival brought together farmers, researchers, and environmental professionals to explore sustainable solutions for the future of farming.

A Collaborative Stand with Biomass Connect

IBERS shared a stand with the Biomass Connect project, highlighting our joint work on climate-resilient crops, sustainable land use, and carbon-smart farming systems. The stand featured:

  • Breeding programmes for drought- and pest-resilient grasses and cereals.
  • Riparian buffer solutions for water quality and biodiversity.
  • Low-input cropping systems for net-zero farming.
  • Innovation and commercialisation pathways from IBERS research.
  • Information on UK-wide biomass crop trials across 8 demonstration hubs.

Engaging the Agricultural Community

Over two days, the stand welcomed more than 70 visitors, including:

  • Farmers and landowners
  • Agronomists and consultants
  • Academic researchers
  • Environmental NGOs and commercial stakeholders

Visitors were especially interested in the practical applications of IBERS research, including the use of perennial crops in buffer zones, breeding for resilience, and the commercial potential of emerging bio-based innovations.

Key Outcomes

  • Strengthened awareness of IBERS’leadership in regenerative agriculture
  • Sparked new interest in collaborative trials and knowledge exchange
  • Opened conversations around innovation adoption and technology transfer
  • Identified new opportunities for partnerships with farmers and industry

Looking Ahead

Groundswell 2025 was a valuable opportunity to connect with the wider agricultural community and share how IBERS research is helping shape a more sustainable, resilient future for UK farming. We look forward to building on these conversations and continuing to support innovation in the sector.