Sustainable Farming and Food

Research from farming to food and diets.

The global demand for food will continue to increase. However, the implications for biodiversity, preserving terrestrial ecosystems and climate change (agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions while also being impacted by climate change) need to be considered. At the same time, consumers want more transparency, traceability, and quality in their foods, with an increased demand for sustainable foods and diets. The Sustainable Farming and Food cluster undertakes research from farm to fork.

Areas of research

  • Food system transformation
  • Adaptation of farming and food systems in response to climate change and its impacts
  • Achieving net-zero in agriculture and food
  • Agricultural and food system policy analysis (e.g. agri-environmental schemes)
  • Soil ecosystem services
  • New agri-food actors, e.g. venture capitals, entrepreneurs, new entrant farmers
  • Re-localising food production consumption and access to food
  • Sustainable transitions and socio-technical systems (agroecology, regenerative farming, circular agriculture, digital farming)
  • Sustainable innovation, innovation systems, knowledge and learning (farmer / grower-led)
  • Participatory methods and visioning for sustainable food futures

Sustainable Development Goals

Set by the United Nations, Sustainable Development Goals address the global challenges we face, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.

  • GOAL 2: Zero Hunger
  • GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
  • GOAL 13: Climate Action

Related research projects

View current research projects related to Sustainable Farming and Food cluster.

  • Farm of the Future Climathon

    Farm of the Future Climathon

    The latest NICRE-funded Climathon recently took place at Tramway farm on the Gloucestershire-Warwickshire border.

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  • Rural businesses consider the environment in decision-making, but barriers exist

    Rural businesses consider the environment in decision-making, but barriers exist

    A major new survey from the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE) highlights barriers faced by rural businesses as they transition to net zero.

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  • Cotswold Climathon

    Cotswold Climathon

    The Cotswold Climathon took place at the end of September over two days at the Royal Agriculture University.

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