Richardson was made an OBE in honour of his years of work
LEAF founder David Richardson has passed away, the environmental farming charity has reported.
Richardson was regarded as a pioneering thought leader who left a great impression on British and global agriculture. In the 1980s and 90s – long before sustainability became a widely recognised imperative – he was boldly championing the need for farming systems that worked in harmony with nature, protected the environment, and earned the trust of the public.
As a respected Norfolk farmer, writer, and broadcaster, Richardson used his platform to challenge conventional thinking and advocate for change. He recognised early on that the future of farming relied not just on production and efficiency, but on transparency, responsibility, and public engagement.
His visionary thinking led to the founding of LEAF in 1991, and he chaired the organisation for 10 years. His role in promoting a new approach to managing the land was recognised in 2000 when he was made an OBE for services to integrated farming.
Richardson’s influence extended far beyond policy or practice, LEAF said in its tribute. He was a mentor, guide, and dear friend to many – most notably to Caroline Drummond, LEAF’s longstanding chief executive, who passed away in 2022.
He was instrumental in shaping Drummond’s early leadership and remained a trusted confidant throughout her life. She often turned to him for wisdom, encouragement, and clarity, and their shared passion for farming and the environment formed the heart of LEAF’s values and direction.
LEAF said that Richardson’s leadership helped shift perceptions at a time when sustainability was still on the fringes of agricultural debate. His ability to connect with farmers, policymakers, scientists, and the public alike made him a unique and influential voice in the sector. He inspired a generation of farmers to think differently – balancing productivity with care for the land and a commitment to future generations.
Listing achievements that form part of Richardson’s legacy, LEAF noted that LEAF Marque now operates in 52 countries, most of the leading UK retailers have adopted the certification, and Open Farm Sunday has welcomed more than three million visitors over two decades.
LEAF’s education programmes also reach tens of thousands of young people every year, and through LEAF’s growing global reach, the principles of Integrated Farm Management are now being shared and adopted by farming communities worldwide.
Philip Wynn, chairman of LEAF, said: “David’s foresight and values were truly ahead of their time. His unwavering belief in farming as a force for good laid the foundations for everything LEAF stands for today. His legacy lives on in our continued growth and in the thriving community of farmers, educators and changemakers who continue to build on his vision for a more sustainable, nature-based future.
“On behalf of the LEAF board, team, members, and wider community, we send our heartfelt condolences to David’s family and friends. We are deeply grateful for his wisdom, courage, and enduring belief in farming as a force for good.”
