Unlocking a green transformation in farming

Cross-party think tank Demos has released a new report on the future of UK farming, supported by McCain Foods.

Sowing Resilience: A policy framework to expand regenerative farming argues that the practice could improve food security, help tackle climate change, advance the UK’s biodiversity and boost profits for British farmers.

The report outlines the need for ambitious new approaches to help the UK meet its food needs and its environmental commitments as increasing effects of climate change and volatile international supply chains make food supply a concern.

Consumers who expressed support also indicated they would be willing to make trade-offs, despite the ongoing pressures of the cost-of-living crisis. Over half of consumers who had a view said they would be happy to pay more for food if it led to reduced emissions (46 per cent).

Polling conducted for the report also reveals significant cross-party support for the practice, with 69 per cent of Conservative voters and 68 per cent of Labour voters in favour of its widespread adoption.

The report identifies three key barriers to expanding regenerative methods faced by farmers across the country: poor financial incentives to transition, caution about shifting methods, and difficulties in implementation.

James Young, VP of agriculture at McCain Foods GB, said: “For our part, we have committed to implementing regenerative agriculture practices across 100 per cent of our global potato acreage by 2030 and are working closely with our growers to achieve this goal. We’re providing financial support, trialling regenerative practices and facilitating knowledge sharing through our demonstration farms, and collaborating with industry through forums such as the Sustainable Markets Initiative. However, we know that to really scale regenerative agriculture and help farmers thrive, all stakeholders – including Government – must work together.”

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