South of England Agricultural Society Farming Conference 2023

Led by BBC Radio 4’s Farming Today presenter Charlotte Smith, this year’s event will take a new approach - an interview with two exceptional guests rather than presentations - delving deeply into whether we can save the planet (from a farming perspective) or if it’s too late. The traditional close to the conference will remain, offering time for audience questions, input and debate.
Talking about this year’s subject, Duncan Rawson, a Nuffield Scholar sponsored by the Society, and chair of the conference organising committee, said: “I don’t think anyone can argue that climate change isn’t making its consequences felt across the farming sector. From changing weather patterns to increasing society demands to farm more sustainably, the impact is palpable.”
“Agriculture is firmly in the sights of many as the cause of many of the problems we face when it comes to climate change and environmental loss, and to be fair, to a large extent, they’re right. We’re now reaping the impacts of decades of government policies incentivising production at the expense of the environment. However, it is often said that whilst the industry is a major contributor to climate destruction, it potentially provides many of the answers too. That by changing farming practices, and doing things differently, we can save the planet and feed an ever-demanding population to boot.”
“But is that true, or is it too late? Everyone is talking about carbon zero, but is it achievable? We talk about biodiversity loss, but isn’t the damage done irreversible now? Can we shed our reliance on artificial fertilisers when we have an obligation to provide affordable food to a growing population?”
“The Society firmly believes the future is bright, but we also need to be realistic, which is why this conference and debate, at this time, is so important.”
This year’s guest speakers are Sue Pritchard, Chief Executive of independent charity the Food, Farming, and Countryside Commission (FFCC), and Phil Jarvis, Chair of Albanwise Farming and Environment.