At McCarthy's Strawberry Farm, we take pride in our commitment to sustainable farming practices that not only ensure the finest quality strawberries but also contribute to the well-being of the environment and local community. Here are some of the key sustainability practices we implement on our farm:
1. Bumble Bees as Essential Pollinators
Our strawberry crop owes much of its success to our diligent workforce – bumble bees! These fuzzy pollinators are considered the best workers on our farm. By using bumble bees for pollination, we not only enhance the efficiency of the process but also support the overall health of our ecosystem.
2. Natural Insect Predators and Innovative Pest Control
Embracing nature's balance, we employ natural insect predators to keep pest populations in check. When additional assistance is required, we use a specially formulated solution made from orange skins. This slightly sticky concoction helps slow down pests, giving our natural predators the upper hand in maintaining a healthy and thriving strawberry crop.
3. Solar Panels for Sustainable Energy
In Winter 2023, we took a significant step towards reducing our environmental footprint by installing solar panels. This eco-friendly energy source aligns perfectly with our business needs, as our peak electricity usage for fridges and water pumps occurs during the brightest months of the year (May to September). By harnessing the power of the sun, we are making strides towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
4. Transition from Peat to Coir
In 2017, we made the conscious decision to switch from growing strawberries in peat to using coir, the finely chopped outer husk of the coconut. This change ensures that coir, which was once considered waste, is repurposed effectively. After serving as a growing medium, coir is collected by local farmers and utilized as animal bedding. Once its life as bedding concludes, the coir is further recycled as fertilizer and soil conditioner. This three-stage use of coir exemplifies our commitment to the mantra – "Use, Re-use, Re-use!"
5. Recycling Onsite Materials
Every bit counts in our sustainability journey. We take great care in recycling all onsite cardboard and broken wooden pallets. By repurposing these materials, we minimize waste and contribute to a circular economy.
6. Localized Delivery Network
To further reduce our carbon footprint, all our strawberries are delivered to depots or shops within a 25km radius of our farm. Our commitment to sustainability extends to the shortest delivery distance – a mere 50 meters to our farm shop, conveniently located inside the gate of our farm.
At McCarthy's Strawberry Farm, we believe in sweetening the world while preserving its natural sweetness. Join us on our journey towards a more sustainable and delicious future!