These pages tell you a little more about the revised NAP and its key elements. Below are the key changes in terms of the science and evidence base.
Science & evidence
You said…
The scientific basis for some proposals was unclear and that stronger evidence, transparency and alignment with farm practice are needed.
Our response…
Expert input from specialist subgroups, the NAP Review Report, and monitoring data. Some standard nutrient excretion values should be updated to reflect current production systems, with a focus on improving the accuracy of nutrient accounting.
Review phosphorus balance targets for intensive farms
You told us…
Proposed phosphorus balance targets, particularly for more intensive farms, should be reviewed to ensure they are sufficient to achieve environmental outcomes.
Our response…
Introduction of measures to reduce phosphorus surplus, including a 30% reduction in the national average surplus and requirements for higher stocking farms to reduce P balance through the Nutrient Stewardship Programme or other controls.
Source Apportionment
You told us…
The contribution of agriculture to nutrient loading in waterways was denoted at 62% and that you were concerned that contributions from wastewater were underestimated.
Our response…
Identification as an early priority for the Science Subgroup to review the available evidence on source apportionment. The Subgroup highlighted that there were limitations to the data but there is no doubt about agriculture being one of the major contributors and that NAP was a key part of reducing that sector’s contribution.