Published by AMTEC on 08th Apr 2025

AMTEC’s 2025 Report Insights on Sustainability Factors Influence on Farmers Machinery Choices

Home > Blog > AMTEC’s 2025 Report Insights on Sustainability Factors Influence on Farmers Machinery Choices

As sustainability becomes an increasingly prominent topic across industries, agriculture is no exception.

As sustainability becomes an increasingly prominent topic across industries, agriculture is no exception. Farmers face mounting pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices, and machinery plays a crucial role in reducing environmental impact. Newer models often come equipped with technology designed to lower emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and minimise soil disturbance. However, the financial realities of farming mean that many must weigh these benefits against cost, practicality, and long-term viability.

To better understand how sustainability influences machinery purchasing decisions, AMTEC surveyed UK farmers in 2024. The results reveal a landscape of divided opinions, where economic pressures often outweigh environmental considerations.

The Sustainability Factor and Its Influence on New vs. Used Machinery

One of the key advantages of new farm machinery is its improved environmental performance. Manufacturers are continuously innovating to meet stricter emissions regulations, enhance fuel efficiency, and integrate alternative energy sources such as electric or hybrid power. Compared to older models, new machinery often produces lower carbon emissions and offers advanced precision farming technologies that optimise input use and reduce waste.

However, while these features contribute to sustainability, they come at a cost. Many farmers argue that investing in new machinery is simply not financially feasible, especially when well-maintained used models can still perform the necessary tasks. Older machines may not match the latest environmental standards, but they can be fitted with upgrades enabling more efficient application of inputs and better soil management which can all help towards sustainability targets.

Are Farmers Divided on Sustainable Farming?

Despite a broader societal shift toward sustainability, the survey data suggests that environmental concerns are not a primary motivator for most farmers when purchasing machinery. Instead, farmers remain divided on the role of sustainability in their decision-making process.

Several factors contribute to this split:

Profitability Concerns – Many farmers question whether sustainable machinery investments will yield enough financial benefits to justify the higher upfront costs.
Knowledge Barriers – Some farmers are uncertain about the tangible impact of sustainable machinery and lack access to clear, actionable information.
Market Demand – With the cost-of-living crisis affecting both farmers and consumers, many argue that their priority must be immediate financial stability rather than long-term environmental goals.
Policy and Subsidy Uncertainty – UK government policies on agricultural sustainability continue to evolve, leaving many hesitant to invest in green technology without clear incentives or financial support.

A Limited Influence on Purchasing Decisions

The survey results reveal a strong trend toward minimal consideration of sustainability when buying farm machinery. A significant 65% of respondents stated that carbon footprint is their least concern when making purchasing decisions. This suggests that while sustainability may be an aspirational goal, it is not yet a defining factor in real-world buying behaviour.

Further analysis of the data indicates that over 75% of respondents held a neutral stance (slightly or moderately influenced) regarding environmental factors in their decision-making. This neutrality suggests that while sustainability is on the radar, it does not yet hold enough weight to drive the majority of purchasing decisions. Farmers appear to be more focused on reliability, affordability, and resale value when selecting machinery.

Balancing Sustainability with Practicality

While the data suggests that sustainability is not a priority for most farmers, it does not mean they are indifferent to environmental concerns. Instead, the challenge lies in balancing sustainability with the practical realities of running a farm. Many farmers acknowledge the benefits of greener machinery but struggle to justify the investment amid economic pressures.

For sustainability to become a stronger factor in purchasing decisions, several changes may be needed:

Financial Incentives – Increased subsidies or tax relief for purchasing eco-friendly machinery could encourage greater adoption.
Education and Awareness – Providing farmers with clear information on the long-term economic benefits of sustainable equipment could help shift attitudes.
Technological Advancements in Used Machinery – Making sustainability retrofits more accessible for older models may provide a viable middle ground for farmers who cannot afford brand-new machinery.

Conclusion

The debate over sustainability in farm machinery purchasing decisions is far from settled. While new models offer improved environmental benefits, the financial realities of farming mean that cost and reliability often take precedence over sustainability considerations.

For farming to have a sustainable future it must have a balance of profitability along with environmental goals. Long term planning and proper management of farmland will in itself be beneficial for the environment but must be coupled with long term financial viability of the farming enterprise. (A bit of insight for you!)

The survey results highlight a significant divide, with many farmers remaining neutral about carbon footprints when selecting machinery. If sustainability is to become a more influential factor in purchasing decisions, industry stakeholders—including manufacturers, policymakers, and financial institutions—must work to bridge the gap between environmental aspirations and economic feasibility.

For now, while sustainability is part of the conversation, it is clear that economic factors remain the driving force behind machinery investment decisions.

Back

AMTEC’s 2025 Report Insights on Sustainability Factors Influence on Farmers Machinery Choices

The Sustainability Factor and Its Influence on New vs. Used Machinery

Are Farmers Divided on Sustainable Farming?

A Limited Influence on Purchasing Decisions

Balancing Sustainability with Practicality

Conclusion

You might also be interested in

AMTEC’s 2025 Report Insights on Financial Effects on Farmers Machinery Choices

Latest Blog Posts

Contact us

Contact

Farm Machinery

Farm Machinery

Hire Agricultural Machinery

Hire Agricultural Machinery

Buyers Guides

Buyers Guides

About AMTEC

About AMTEC

Used Farm Machinery

Used Farm Machinery

Future of Farming

Subscribe for updates

Subscribe for updates