The Changing Landscape in Farming

What are some examples of state legislation for farming?

In England there is the Agriculture Act 2020, the Environment Act 2021 and the 25 year environment plan. There is also the Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMs). 

What are some examples of supranational incentives for farming?

Europe is in negotiations for a Green Deal, which is also focused on payments linked to environmental practices and food standards for international trade.

The World Bank is also operating a number of funds, particularly for developing countries. This includes: 

- Climate Smart Agriculture - Adaptation Fund

- Least Developed Countries Fund

- Special Climate Fund

- Clean Development Mechanism

What are the benefits and drawbacks of private sector support?

Done well, they can provide a new revenue stream for farmers and an acceleration of nature-based solutions. Done badly, they can delay change to address the real source of emissions and can distort land prices and land management practices. Farmers are also facing increasingly overt ‘buyer standards’ from food processors or supermarkets, for example demanding demonstration of action to support the transition to net zero, or practices to support biodiversity. These have the potential to influence behaviour rapidly, but can be a blunt instrument.