OFS survey shows public backing for farmers
© Tim Scrivener New research suggests that consumers strongly support farming systems combining food production with environmental improvements, as farms prepare to open their gates to the public for Open Farm Sunday (OFS).
The survey, commissioned by Leaf (Linking Environment And Farming) and involving more than 2,000 people, found widespread recognition of the role farmers play in delivering both food security and environmental outcomes.
Some 93% of respondents said it was important for the UK to maintain strong food production capacity in an increasingly uncertain world.
See also: Duchess of Edinburgh applauds Open Farm Sunday hosts
Key findings
- 89% agree that protecting nature on farms, including healthy soils, biodiversity and natural flood management, was essential for long-term food production.
- 71% believe farmers should focus on producing food while protecting nature, rather than prioritising one over the other.
- 68% want greater funding for farming systems that help secure future food supplies while improving environmental outcomes, including soil health, water quality and wildlife habitats.
- 70% say they would be willing to pay slightly more for food produced in ways that benefit nature.
Consumer priorities
The research comes ahead of the 20th anniversary of OFS on 7 June, when farmers across the UK will welcome visitors onto their farms to learn more about food production and land management.
David Webster, chief executive of Leaf, said the results showed consumers viewed productive farming and environmental stewardship as complementary goals.
“These results clearly show that people do not see food production and nature-friendly farming as competing priorities,” he said.
“Consumers recognise that resilient food systems depend on healthy soils, thriving biodiversity and sustainable farming practices working hand-in-hand with productive agriculture.
“Supporting both together is essential for the long-term future of farming, food security and the environment.”
Engaging directly
He added that OFS offered farmers an opportunity to engage directly with the public and explain how modern farming supports both food production and environmental delivery.
The event aims to help visitors better understand the role farmers play in feeding the nation while managing the countryside.
Details of participating farms can be found on the Open Farm Sunday website.
