Awebsiteaimed at reducing the UK'scarbon emissionsby connecting
consumers with local farmers is beginning to gain momentum with 250
members and thousands of visitors since its launch in
June.
The FarmsDirect website, which is effectively a directory of
farm shops, was the brainchild of Somerset couple David and Sue
Tucker. They decided to use their IT background to tackle the
problem of climate change and falling revenues for farmers.
"We put the website together very quickly, and begun building
the database of farmers to enable consumers to source food that is
local, traceable, natural, fresh and eco-friendly with a negligible
carbon footprint," said David Tucker.
For an annual fee of £12, farmers will be listed in the online
farm shop director as well as receive assistance with promotional
text that differentiates the product.
"This is not about making money. We are semi-retired and so are
in a position to be able to give our time, and some investment,
into something that will hopefully benefit the environment and an
industry that so deserves everyone's support," said Tucker.
Mark Tutton, a producer of free-range pork products near
Kingsbury Episcopi in Somerset, said FarmsDirect was an excellent
idea for helping producers to consolidate their local market. "We
have seen additional trade and interest, but it would be impossible
to know how much at this early stage," he said.