"Defra must be far braver and more generous in supporting regenerative agriculture with a whole farm approach" - Wildlife and Countryside Link reacts to farming announcement from Defra

26 January 2023

Following the announcement from Defra on progress on Sustainable Farming Incentive (with the roll out of new paid actions to support food production and environmentally-friendly farming) Wildlife and Countryside Link has called for whole-farm approaches and for more support for farmers.

Dr Richard Benwell, CEO of Wildlife and Countryside Link, said:

“Defra is right to recognise the importance of getting lots of farmers involved in better soil and hedgerow management, or beating pests and diseases by working with nature rather than chemicals. The standards published today, though, would scarcely represent an inch forward for many farmers. Of course, it’s right to reward existing good practice, but a pick and mix approach of easy options on the farm margins won’t work. Defra must be far braver and more generous in supporting regenerative agriculture with a whole farm approach."

ENDS