Sustainability at Meon Springs

At Meon Springs, recently, we have undertaken two significant projects that have helped towards supporting sustainability within our farm.

Solar Panels on Our Dairy Parlour

Last winter, we discovered several leaks in the roof of our barn where we milk our herd of four hundred cows. Knowing the roof needed replacing, we decided to install solar panels on the new roof. The electricity generated is sold back to the grid, and we can monitor energy uptake through our app. During the summer months, the power required for afternoon milking sessions was covered by the solar panels. We project that the installation costs will be recouped in seven years, which is relatively quick in farming terms.

This is the milking parlour roof from drone footage

Our happy 400 cows, munching on grass, they provide milk for Sainsburys

Bulrush Heads – A Surprising Use

We have been enhancing our Wetland Project to improve local biodiversity, water quality, and support sustainable farming practices at Whitewool Farm. As part of this initiative, we harvested half a tonne of bulrush heads from Meon Springs Wetland and sent them to Ponda Bio in Bristol. They process these bulrush heads into BioPuff™, a plant-based alternative to down or polyester fillers used in Stella McCartney's fashion range. This innovative use of bulrush heads has made them the highest value crop we have ever grown at Meon Springs. If this technology gains traction, it could lead to the creation of more wetland habitats across the UK.

Our Wetland Project aligns with the farm's broader sustainability goals, fostering a balanced, healthy environment for both farming and wildlife.

If you have any questions about our sustainable practices, feel free to ask Jamie or Greg during your next visit.

Who would have thought these could be used to make a warm coat!