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Sustainability-focussed Ploughing 2023 officially launched

The 2023 National Ploughing Championships (the Ploughing) have been officially launched by EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness.
Mairead McGuinness MEP; fashion stylist, Celia Holeman Lee and NPA managing director, Anna May McHugh at the National Ploughing Championships launch in Ratheniska, Co. Laois. Photo: Alf Harvey.

There are just two weeks to go until the event gets underway, and National Ploughing Association managing director, Anna May McHugh said that preparations are well underway to transform the ‘green field in the middle of Ireland into a bustling hub’. And, importantly, sustainability is a key theme with numerous green initiatives taking place over the three-day event. The NPA will be promoting the use of recyclable products, food waste will be converted into energy through an anaerobic digester, and there will also be solar panelled lighting towers, cardboard compactors, litter fines, and waste separation operations on-site.” Certa, formerly Emo Oil, will provide the electricity for the event using hydrated vegetable oil (recycled cooking oil). 

Millions of euro worth of agricultural and plant machinery will be on display featuring an extensive range of cutting-edge agricultural technology and equipment. Leading manufacturers and agents will be present with specialist sales advisors and technical experts available for free consultations. 

Visitors can take the opportunity to admire the marvellous quality livestock on display and learn about livestock management, genetics, nutrition and healthcare.  
The Ploughing is a haven for foodies, as all sectors of the food chain are represented from producer to retailer, artisan foods, craft beers, celebrity chefs, cookery competitions and much more. And in the national ploughing stakes, a particularly strong programme has attracted entries from all around the country and Northern Ireland with over 320 competitors over the three days.
Don’t miss the September issue of Irish Farmers Monthly for our special Ploughing focus!