The National Farm Management Conference (NFMC) is returning this November, to provide a platform for the industry to address the ‘thornier’ questions surrounding the balance of food security and environmental needs.
Concerns for food security and net zero targets have been accelerated by recent events, says Carl Atkin, chairman of the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM).
“The war in the Black Sea region has stoked a resurgence of a focus on food security issues, which were already creeping back to the forefront due to disruptions caused by Brexit and Covid-19, said Mr Atkin. While, he adds, “farming is undoubtedly going to play a key role in reaching net zero emissions.”
Hence, with such issues mounting, the NFMC will present an environment in which the relationship between food security and environmental protection can be debated by those at the heart of the industry.
Keynote speakers at the conference will include NFU president Minette Batters; professor Tim Lang, from the Centre for Food; Lord Deben, chair of the Climate Change Committee; and Sophie Throup, head of agriculture, fisheries and sustainable sourcing at Morrisons.
“The sessions will leave no stone unturned when it comes to tackling the difficult questions which arise when debating food and environmental security,” ensures Mr Atkin.
“We’ll explore who owns natural capital and how it should be monetised, how we can undo the plateauing of agricultural productivity growth and the role of vertical farming, alternative proteins and how cultured food could strengthen food security.”
IAgrM members, and non-members, are welcome to attend the conference. Plus, for the first time, 50 free of charge places are available to students.
To book your tickets and for further information, visit the National Farm Management conference website: www.iagrm.com/conference.
