Research from Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF) has reportedly shown “overwhelming” public support for UK farming systems delivering both food production and environmental benefits.
The survey of over 2,000 people found that 93% believe it is important for the UK to maintain a “strong level” of food production capacity in what it called an “increasingly uncertain world”.
A total of 89% agreed that protecting nature on farms, including healthy soils, flood defences and biodiversity, is essential for long-term food production, while 71% said farmers should focus on producing food while also protecting nature.
The findings also revealed strong backing for investment in sustainable farming, with 68% wanting to see more money invested into farming systems that help secure future UK food supplies while improving environmental outcomes such as healthy soils, clean water and wildlife habitats.
In addition, 70% of respondents said they would be either ‘very willing’ or ‘somewhat willing’ to pay a little more for food produced in ways that claim to support better outcomes for nature.
Open Farm Sunday to “share the value” of agriculture
The results come as UK farmers prepare to welcome the public onto their farms for Open Farm Sunday’s 20th anniversary on 7th June 2026. The annual event offers visitors the chance to explore beyond the farm gate, meet the people producing their food and learn more about how modern farming works alongside nature.
David Webster, chief executive of LEAF, said: “These results clearly show that people do not see food production and nature-friendly farming as competing priorities.
“Consumers recognise that resilient food systems depend on healthy soils, thriving biodiversity and sustainable farming practices working hand-in-hand with productive agriculture. Supporting both together is essential for the long-term future of farming, food security and the environment.
“Open Farm Sunday is the sector’s opportunity to articulate the value of agriculture to a wider audience. It brings people face-to-face with the farmers who feed them, giving them the chance to understand why the farms in their community matter, not only in terms of food production but also environmental good and agriculture’s wider input into society.”
