The Lakes Free Range Egg Company has been named as an Environmental Champion in prestigious awards.
The firm, based near Penrith, won the title at the Farmers Weekly Awards, now in their 20th year.
Judges said: “Environmental delivery has strengthened their business long before it became common parlance in the corridors of Westminster.
“They’ve embraced tree planting, invested in renewable energy, devised biodiversity action plans and their egg packing station is testament to environmental commitment.
“David and Helen Brass pioneered tree planting on poultry ranges to absorb carbon, reduce flooding and promote bird health – which has now become standard industry practice.
“David is always willing to share his experience and has had a real impact on the poultry sector for the benefit of fellow producers and the wider environment.”
The top five reasons highlighted by Farmers Weekly for selecting David and Helen Brass as Environmental Champions were:
- Pioneers in the egg industry for tree planting
- Real innovators when it comes to lowering their environmental impact, with lower shed emissions and enhanced biodiversity
- Great communicators and influencers, setting an example and sharing knowledge
- Visible benefits to the rural landscape at macro and micro level
- Passionate about the environment, their business and the whole egg sector, with numerous industry roles and exemplary public engagement
David, chief executive officer, said: “The Farmers Weekly Environmental Champion Award shortlist was selected from all the category finalists, all of whom are leaders in their sector. This made being shortlisted for this award very special.
“Being recognised as the Environmental Champion is a great achievement for The Lakes team and we are very proud to receive it.
“In terms of sustainable development, we have reduced our Scope 3 carbon by 35%, but there is still more to do to reduce our Scope 3 GHG emissions further.
“We have invested £2 million in data technology to improve efficiencies that help lower our emissions, and we have carbon assessments in place for all our producers.
“Across the board, we are constantly innovating, working as a team on numerous other projects that will further reduce the impact we have on the environment and improve our sustainability. What we do can be replicated across the agricultural industry, so we are delighted to receive this environmental recognition.”
