The Duchy of Lancaster has joined leading figures from across farming, land management, government and business at the Conference on Food & National Security in London, exploring how the UK can build a more resilient and sustainable food system.
Alastair Martin CVO, Chief Executive and Clerk of the Council at the Duchy of Lancaster, took part in a panel discussion examining the role that major landowners and food supply chains can play in supporting regenerative agriculture and strengthening national resilience.
Against a backdrop of climate change, geopolitical uncertainty and pressure on food supply chains, the Duchy believes the long-term resilience of British farming has never been more important. Food production, environmental stewardship and thriving rural communities are closely interconnected, with successful and resilient farm businesses at their heart.
Across its rural estates, the Duchy is working closely with its tenant farmers to support more sustainable and regenerative approaches to farming, helping businesses remain productive and resilient while protecting and enhancing the natural environment.
A recent Duchy tenant survey found that 85% of tenants consider regenerative farming important for environmental sustainability and land health.
The Duchy is also working with organisations including the Soil Association and Regenified to provide farmers with practical support and expertise as they develop more regenerative approaches.
This includes longer-term Sustainable Farm Business Tenancies, which incorporate environmental plans developed jointly between the Duchy and its tenants, giving farmers greater confidence to invest and plan for the future while supporting long-term farming and environmental outcomes.
Alastair Martin, Chief Executive of the Duchy of Lancaster, said:
“The long-term resilience of British farming has never been more important. Our approach is guided by the principles championed by His Majesty The King throughout his life: that successful farming and environmental stewardship should go hand in hand.”
“By working closely with our tenants and partners, we want to help create resilient farming businesses that produce nutrient-rich food, contributing to the UK’s food security while protecting the natural resources on which farming depends.”
The Duchy’s work to support regenerative farming forms part of its wider commitment to responsible, long-term stewardship, balancing productive land management with environmental responsibility and creating lasting value for tenants, communities and future generations.