Llanelwedd, Wales – July 21st–24th, 2025
Biomass Connect was present as part of the IBERS (Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences) stand at the Royal Welsh Show 2025, contributing to a vibrant showcase of science-led solutions for resilient and sustainable agriculture.
With over 240,000 visitors and 1,000 exhibitors, the event was once again a key fixture in the UK’s rural calendar. The IBERS stand—shared by the Biomass Connect team—attracted considerable attention from farmers, policymakers, advisors, researchers and commercial stakeholders, offering the ideal platform to raise awareness about the opportunities and challenges in biomass crop production.
Miscanthus and the Future of Biomass
One of the main talking points was a large Heston bale of Miscanthus, generously supplied by IBERS, presented with the prompt:
“Have you considered Miscanthus as livestock bedding?”
This simple but eye-catching display opened the door to a wide range of conversations around biomass production. Visitors were curious not only about bedding, but also about energy uses, soil health benefits, biodiversity gains, and carbon savings associated with perennial crops like Miscanthus and willow.
IBERS/Biomass Connect at the RWAS 2025
The team engaged with farmers and advisors on practical topics such as:
- Establishing biomass crops on grassland
- Harvesting and processing challenges
- New market opportunities
- The role of biochar in reducing ammonia in poultry units
- Perennial biomass as a route to climate-smart farming
These discussions aligned closely with ongoing themes in Welsh agricultural policy—particularly the development of the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), which is exploring how land use change and carbon reduction strategies can be integrated into future farm support.
Translating Research into Practice
As part of the broader IBERS offering, the stand also featured research on resilient crop systems, biorefining, and low-carbon farming innovations—all of which have relevance for the biomass sector. The conversations at the show reinforced the value of co-development between researchers, farmers, and industry in accelerating the adoption of sustainable practices.
The presence of Biomass Connect at the show was a clear demonstration of our commitment to supporting land managers with practical, independent information about biomass crops, and to facilitating knowledge exchange across the UK through our network of demonstration sites, case studies and factsheets.
Looking Ahead
The warm reception at the Royal Welsh Show underlined the growing interest in biomass as part of a resilient agricultural future. With long-term policy direction focusing on climate resilience, biodiversity, and diversification, perennial energy crops are increasingly being recognised as part of the solution.
Biomass Connect will continue to work alongside farmers and researchers to ensure these crops are not only viable but valuable—economically, environmentally, and practically.
