The Journey of Elston Farm and The Meat Box Company’s Commitment to the Environment
Greetings from Elston Farm, the heart of The Meat Box Company! It’s been 884 days since we embarked on our ambitious environmental project, and the transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.
Silvopasture: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Nestled 15 miles outside Exeter, our farm has always been more than just a source of premium meat. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to the environment and sustainable farming. Over the past couple of years, our 10.5ha (26 acres) of land has evolved into a thriving silvopasture, a harmonious blend of grazed grassland and specially selected trees.
Thanks to the relentless efforts of Andy Gray and our team of dedicated local volunteers, the landscape of Elston Farm has been adorned with 8,300 trees. These trees aren’t just an aesthetic addition; they’re the backbone of our mission to understand and harness the myriad benefits of Silvopasture. From carbon capture, enhanced biodiversity, improved water quality, flood reduction, to the enrichment of soil health, the results have been promising. Not to mention the positive impacts we’ve observed on animal behaviour and health. Every day, we uncover more about the symbiotic relationship between our livestock, the trees, and the environment.
But our journey doesn’t end there. At The Meat Box Company, we’ve always believed in staying ahead of the curve. Our farming methods at Elston Farm have undergone a significant transformation, aligning with regenerative farming practices. Our commitment to a greener future is further solidified with the installation of solar panels and wind turbines. These initiatives we started 11 years ago, not only power our operations but also play a pivotal role in offsetting our carbon footprint.
Collaborative Efforts:
Collaboration has been the cornerstone of our success. Our partnership with the Woodland Trust has ensured a steady supply of trees, while our association with Rothamsted Research, the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group, Innovative Farmers, the Organic Research Centre, and the Soil Association has provided invaluable insights and expertise.
As we look to the future, our vision remains clear: to be at the forefront of sustainable farming and to provide our customers with products that are not just delicious but also environmentally responsible. Our upcoming meat boxes, available through Farm Wilder, are a testament to this commitment. They symbolize a blend of quality, sustainability, and our promise to nurture nature and the environment.
Join us on this journey as we continue to explore, innovate, and commit to a greener, sustainable future. Your support fuels our passion, and together, we can make a difference.
Warm regards, Andy Gray and The Meat Box Company Team.