The Source

Drawing on insights from systems thinking, this Nuffield Farming Scholarship report proposes a participatory approach to support more inclusive and context-sensitive policy development. Rather than offering a singular solution such as a wholesale transition to agroecology, it argues that by encouraging a diversity of perspectives, valuing lived experience, recognising different forms of knowledge, the policy process could support incremental yet cumulative change across the agrifood system even in the absence of complete consensus.

Through reduction of D. plantaginea fruit damage alone, our study shows that flower strips on the headland can be a positive financial investment. If non-crop land was not available, establishment of a flower strip in the centre of an orchard, instead of the edge, could recoup opportunity costs by providing benefits to crops on both sides of the flower strip. Our study can help guide the optimal placement of flower strips and inform subsidy value for these schemes.

ncluding plantain in perennial ryegrass/white clover pasture appears to be a low-cost option to reduce N leaching and nitrous oxide emission, without any substantive negative effects on pasture production, animal production, milk quality and animal health. On the contrary, under certain situations various positive effects of plantain on all these factors have been observed.

“This report calls for British farming to be treated as a strategic national asset, supported by more stable policy and practical reform for sustainable food production in the UK. We need to remove the barriers that currently hold the sector back to create a stronger and more resilient agricultural industry.” 

The reopening of the SFI is more than a funding update, it provides a framework for farms to plan, recruit, and build a workforce capable of delivering sustainable, environmentally responsible agriculture.

A framework for measuring, verifying, and rewarding nutrient-dense food production

The PFAS story is complex from occurrence to effects; therefore, transparent and targeted communication tools and educational programs for different and diverse stakeholders are needed to generate widespread awareness and public involvement.

Feed self-sufficiency and land conservation are important, and interrelated, aspirations because they lead to better cropping and feeding practices which, in turn, improve the production efficiency of dairy crops, animals, and farms. With the staggering complexity and demands of modern dairy farming, it is difficult for farmers to unravel the manure conundrum. This will require a community effort, where resources, knowledge, and expertise can be shared and advanced.

Agriculture in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa plays a central role in livelihoods and food security. The province’s unique geography, dominated by mountains and valleys, creates both opportunities and challenges for farmers. Soil erosion, water loss, and climate variability are increasing concerns. Regenerative agriculture offers a practical way to improve productivity while restoring natural resources.

Africa’s poultry sector is undergoing a period of sustained growth, driven by rapid urbanisation, rising incomes, and increasing demand for affordable animal protein. As consumption continues to expand, structural gaps across production and distribution systems present a compelling opportunity for external partners.

Through Capital Grants in 2026, £225 million will be available to support farmers, land managers and rural businesses to deliver environmental improvements across England.

From fermentation tanks to field soils, most microbial inoculants face barriers they can’t overcome.