How we work

We were set up to explore practical and radical solutions to the climate, nature, health and economic crises of our time. Through evidence, research, telling stories of change and much more, we seek to involve and communicate with citizens, and advocate for new ideas and new solutions.

Our partnerships with leaders across diverse sectors, disciplines and places, help us to liberate new possibilities, shift public narratives, and create the conditions for governments and businesses to propose and implement progressive policies and actions. Our distinctive approach is systems-thinking, collaborative, inclusive and evidence-led, reaching out to seldom heard voices and engaging non-traditional sectors in the work.

We aim to help shape a transformation of our food system so that:

  • Healthy food is everybody’s business, levelling the playing field for a fair food system
  • Farming is a force for change, with a transition plan for agroecology by 2030, and the resources to back that plan
  • The countryside works for everyone, with a framework for sustainable land use and nature restoration, with flourishing rural economies and thriving communities where people can afford to live and work.
  • Money flows to where it is needed to align investment with the priorities for a just transition.

A bit about us:

We started off life in November 2017 as an independent inquiry hosted by the RSA and funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation. Led by a group of influential Commissioners, we commissioned research and sought practical solutions to tackle climate, health and nature crises. This included a nation-wide bike tour which gave us a unique insight into the thoughts and concerns of people potentially most impacted by our recommendations. These recommendations formed the basis of a landmark report, Our Future in the Land, which was widely supported by ministers and welcomed on both sides of the aisle.

We became an independent charity in April 2020 thanks to the generous, continued support of the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation. Our work has focused on implementing the recommendations, first set out in Our Future in the Land, in partnership and collaboration with colleagues around the UK.