Laura McCarthy, Shandangan West, Carrigadrohid, Co Cork

Dear Sir: Like many members of the farming community, I find the Irish Farmers Journal a valuable source of information. However, it is also biased in favour of non-environmentally friendly farming practices.

We need to start engaging with nature on our farms. The Journal is a key tool in educating and influencing farmers, which is why I would like to see a section focused on the environment/sustainable agriculture. The future of small farmers will depend on diversification, targeting niche markets like organic and artisan food production, and working to protect our biodiversity.

I’m sure many readers would be interested in learning about agroforestry, permaculture, agroecology and ecosystem services. I strongly feel that the Journal could provide the knowledge and inspiration to drive Irish agriculture towards a productive, yet environmentally conscientious, farming era.