Sustainable inputs for UK legumes

Pests, diseases and extreme weather events are major constraints on the production of peas and beans in the UK. Current pest and disease control methods often rely on synthetic chemical pesticides which have negative impacts on the environment and human health.

This project would **transform traditional farm protein production** by providing **sustainable/climate-resistant alternatives** for UK-grown legume farmers **by identifying new products** to stimulate plant growth and/or increase tolerance to abiotic stress (biostimulants) and help manage pests and diseases (biopesticides). These products will include natural products and living microorganisms which would reduce the dependency on synthetic inputs and increase resilience.

This pre-farm gate project will have a huge impact on downstream industries such as food and feed manufacturers by intervening in an **early stage of the supply chain** to improve yield/health and quality of plant raw materials such as legumes (peas and Faba beans) that are playing a significant role in the shaping of a **healthier and more sustainable food system.**

The project is delivered by a **highly competent consortium** led by CHAP and including CABI, University of Warwick, Agrii, Fargro and Russell Bio.