The South of England Agricultural Society has announced the 2023 Farming Conference, which will take place on the 1st of November at the South of England Showground, West Sussex.
Led by BBC Radio 4’s Farming Today presenter Charlotte Smith, the event will take a new approach. Instead of presentations, it will focus on an interview with two guests questioned on the topic of whether we can save the planet (from a farming perspective) or if it’s too late.
At the end of the interview, the conference will revert to its traditional question and answer session, as well as further input and debate from the guests.
Duncan Rawson, a Nuffield scholar sponsored by the Society, and chair of the organising committee said: “I don’t think anyone can argue that climate change isn’t making its consequences felt across the farming sector. From changing weather patterns to increasing societal demands to farm more sustainably, the impact is palpable.
“Agriculture is firmly in the sights of many as the cause of many of the problems we face when it comes to climate change and environmental loss, and to be fair, to a large extent, they’re right. We’re now reaping the impacts of decades of government policies incentivising production at the expense of the environment. However, it is often said that whilst the industry is a major contributor to climate destruction, it potentially provides many of the answers too. That by changing farming practices, and doing things differently, we can save the planet and feed an ever-demanding population to boot.
“But is that true, or is it too late? Everyone is talking about carbon zero, but is it achievable? We talk about biodiversity loss, but isn’t the damage done irreversible now? Can we shed our reliance on artificial fertilisers when we have an obligation to provide affordable food to a growing population?
“The Society firmly believes the future is bright, but we also need to be realistic, which is why this conference and debate, at this time, is so important.”
The guest speakers this year are Sue Pritchard, chief executive of the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission (FFCC), and Phil Jarvis, chair of Albanwise Farming and Environment.
The Farming Conference is free to attend, either online or in person. For more information go to www.seas.org.uk
