Move is one of three new initiatives covering education, skills and data-driven innovation
LEAF has unveiled three new initiatives designed to accelerate the transition to more sustainable farming, spanning education, skills and data-driven innovation.
The announcements, made at LEAF’s annual conference in London, include the launch of the LEAF Regen Academy as a global, farm-led knowledge exchange focused on the practical application of regenerative principles in differing farm contexts.
Also new is the development of land-based college courses that will drive scaled and systemic engagement with Integrated Farm Management at its core, and pioneering research into the use of AI to support farmers in the drive to adopting more sustainable practices.
In his opening address to farmers, educators, researchers and industry partners, LEAF chair Philip Wynn told delegates the sector is undergoing profound transformation, at a scale and speed that is unprecedented. “At LEAF, our mission is to facilitate how farmers navigate this shift through collaboration and innovation that will help build a resilient, sustainable food system for generations to come,” he added.
Regenerative transition
The first panel session, Regenerative Farming – Revolution, Evolution or Cultural Transition – focused on regenerative practices and how farmers can be supported to navigate changing approaches with confidence.
LEAF trustee and farmer Johnny Wake explained the ambition behind the creation of the LEAF Regen Academy: “We are building a community-led platform focused on application, evidence and learning – rather than advocacy – helping farmers explore regenerative practices in ways that work for their businesses.”
The development of the global academy will involve input from LEAF members and the wider agricultural community, ensuring that resources reflect real-world farming systems rather than prescriptive models,” he said.
Embedding sustainability in education
The second panel discussion explored the Role of Public Engagement in Farming, Food and Health. As well as looking ahead to the 20th anniversary of Open Farm Sunday this summer, the session also emphasised the importance of accessible education and training.
In partnership with Lantra, LEAF will co-develop integrated farm management courses that equip the next generation with the skills to drive more resilient and sustainable farming systems, meeting both student and employer needs.
Harnessing data
During the final session, Beautiful Data – Capacity, Culture & Change, panellists considered the growing role of data and technology in supporting better decision-making on farm.
It saw LEAF announce a three-year, industry-focused research project with Hutchinsons. Working in partnership with academic specialists at the University of Cambridge, the project will focus on improving agricultural performance through AI-driven advice to deliver profitable, productive and environmentally restorative farming systems.
LEAF chief executive David Webster said he believes the three new initiatives reinforce LEAF’s mission to drive systemic change by aligning education, innovation, data and public engagement.
“The future of farming is driven by collaboration,” he added. ”By working with trusted partners across education, technology and industry, we can help turn the shared ambition to make sustainability integral to farming systems worldwide into practical, effective action.”
