Scottish farmers reportedly produce around a quarter of the soft fruit that is consumed in the UK (with a fairly low carbon footprint). In these days of Covid-19, there was apparently real concern that it would all go to waste without the usual influx of low-paid pickers (there was even talk of flying them in) of blueberries, raspberries and strawberries that traditionally came from Eastern Europe (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/05/scottish-fruit-farmers-recruit-thousands-locals-save-harvest). Most of the current emergency appears to have been solved by the recruitment of local students (whose courses have been halted) and bar/restaurant staff (whose establishments have closed). What this will do for 'social isolation' and viral spread, however, remains to be seen. I suspect that the fruit farms will not find such ready replacements, if and when, the economy returns to normal.
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Tuesday, 7 April 2020
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