18th December 2024
Bicton College has officially showcased its ground-breaking Environmental Space Living Lab (ESLL), in collaboration with Satellite Applications Catapult, the lead of the ESLL project.
This transformative facility poised to revolutionise the farming industry and propel sustainable practices to new heights through cutting-edge technologies.
The ESLL is a pioneering facility, based at Bicton College’s University Centre, designed to be a hub for research, experimentation and education.
It is a space where academics, students, teachers and researchers can collaborate seamlessly with industry, government and the community to tackle the pressing issues of our time, including the environmental emergency, climate change and food security.
By co-designing, testing and developing innovative solutions, the lab aims to ensure that land-based practices are not only sustainable but also contribute to a thriving future for all. 
In addition, the college’s parkland and farmland offer an opportunity for researchers and innovators to integrate robotics, remote sensing and 5G technologies to tackle the most pressing challenges in agriculture and environmental management.
“As the farming industry rapidly evolves, we are excited to future-proof our learning resources for generations to come. This lab is a game-changer for testing and applying sustainable practices to real-world problems,” said Ed Parrish, director of land-based operations at Bicton College.
The launch event celebrated innovation and collaboration, featuring an esteemed line-up of speakers and contributors.
Highlights included a ceremonial ribbon-cutting by David Fursdon, Lord Lieutenant of Devon, officially marking the facility’s opening, calling it “an exciting time for the future of farmers and agriculturists.”
Other notable attendees included John Varley OBE TD, Chief Executive of Clinton Devon Estates, and Charles Courtenay, partner at Michelmores, owner and steward of the Powderham Estate, and the 19th Earl of Devon.
Representatives from The Great South West and the Satellite Applications Catapult were also present to explore the facility’s capabilities and witness first-hand how the Lab will shape the future of farming and sustainability.
Joel Freedman, Head of Innovation Services at Satellite Application Catapult, addressed attendees during the grand opening to elaborate how like-minded businesses and organisations in Devon, and further afield, will benefit from the technologies available at the centre.
“The Environmental Space Living Lab is more than a facility, it’s a vision for the future. It is an approach to world changing innovation with collaboration at its core,” Joel explained.
To find out more about Environmental Space Living Lab, visit the website.
To find out more about courses available at Bicton College, visit the website.
