Sustainable Production
Sheep are grazing animals – not only do they produce meat, milk and wool but they also ensure the protection of rural areas, the maintenance of landscapes, and the conservation of biodiversity.
Nature has given Ireland fertile soils, diverse landscapes, temperate climate and warming waters from the Gulf of Mexico to northern Europe resulting in a longer growing season making green pasturelands the mainstay of Irish agriculture. The Irish countryside has always been a haven for wildlife and Ireland’s hedgerow system, which has remained virtually unchanged for centuries, provides a vast network of habitats for mammals such as rabbits, hares, badgers and hedgehogs, as well as supporting bee and songbird populations with its wildflowers and berries. Over 80% of sheep farmers in Ireland have been members of environmental protection programmes which direct farmers to farm in an environmentally friendly manner and to work consistently towards environmental improvement. Irish farmers have embraced their roles as environmental stewards and are committed to supporting the diversity and abundance of Irish plant and animal wildlife.
