New industry group to tackle environmental risks in outdoor pig production

We’ve brought together producers and industry partners in a new stakeholder group focused on addressing the environmental challenges facing outdoor pig production in the East of England.

The first meeting, held in September and chaired by AHDB’s Zanita Markham, marked the evolution of the ‘Swaffham group’ into a more formal industry forum – the Outdoor Pig Environmental Risk Reduction Programme – with a broader remit and stronger structure.

At the meeting, the group, which includes representatives from major pork businesses, the National Pig Association (NPA) and AHDB, discussed the need for a coordinated, evidence-based approach to managing environmental risks and opportunities.

Explaining the importance of this collaboration, Zanita said:

“A key focus of the group will be generating practical evidence and insight that can be used to inform discussions with government agencies and policymakers over the coming months and years.

“The initiative is expected to become a significant area of work for the sector, helping producers navigate emerging environmental requirements while ensuring the industry's voice is heard.”

The group will also help build trust and engagement with organisations such as the Environment Agency and Natural England.

Further meetings are planned, and we’re developing briefing materials, training proposals and practical templates to support wider industry engagement and collaboration.

If you’d like more information about the group, get in touch with Zanita.

Collaborative group – background

The Outdoor Pig Environmental Risk Reduction Programme, formally referred to as the 'Swaffham project' began in 2016, with the intention of safeguarding the outdoor pig industry.

An increase in incidents related to outdoor pig rearing and their potential impact on water sources, both above and below ground, prompted us to facilitate the bringing together of producers and water stakeholder groups.

The goal was to find solutions to help reduce the environmental impact of outdoor pig farming. 

Some of the areas previously discussed included outdoor enterprises and arable rotations, emerging environmental schemes, and the use of grass swards and cover crops.