"Food security – in the UK and abroad – is completely dependent on a transition to a food and farming system that reduces reliance on fossil fuels and does not offshore environmental impacts." - Dr Jim Scown, FFCC

In the face of dire warnings about the inadequacy of current international climate pledges, our evidence shows that a transition to agroecology in the UK can reduce carbon emissions, restore nature and meet the nation's food security needs.

That’s why in the run up to this year’s COP27, we’re supporting the first ever Food Systems Pavilion at the UN Climate Change Conference, putting food on the table during these crucial talks.

We're also showcasing the stories of farmers and citizens who are finding pathways to nurture and protect the needs of people, and planet - part of our Field Guide for the Future.

Nic and Reno were conventional farmers through and through, until they realised that they could produce plentiful, healthy food and care for nature too.

“You know, farming can solve a lot of the climate crisis. We can lock down a lot of carbon – much, much more than what we're doing already - if we adopt regenerative practices. At the moment people are talking about setting aside land for nature, but with regenerative agriculture you can do both. You can be producing amazing nutrient-dense food, at an affordable price. And you can have the birds, bees and butterflies too. It’s not either-or.”

Graham started to track his carbon footprint on the farm because it made business sense - now he recognises the benefits for the farm's wildlife, and workers, too.

“The only way we can mitigate climate change and carbon emissions and implement an environmental system is if everyone is on board and in agreement. We need to produce food. We also care about our environment. Decision makers should recognise that farmers have a deep knowledge that is virtually untapped.”

Bryce is pioneering climate-friendly dairy through innovations like cutting-edge pasteurisation techniques, milk vending machines and electric transportation.

His work caught the attention of East Ayshire council - together, they revolutionised the school milk service, drastically reducing its carbon footprint. It’s a brilliant example of how public policy can support innovative, climate-friendly farming.

“I honestly didn't think that it would be possible to be sustainable and run a viable business at the same time – but it is.”

Agroecology is a whole-system change offering a suite of practices, pathways and technologies for a fair and sustainable transition to net zero.