In a groundbreaking move, NatWest Group, the UK’s leading bank for businesses, and WWF, the world’s foremost independent conservation organization, have announced a strategic partnership. The alliance will catalyze a sustainable transition within the UK’s food and agriculture sector, marking a significant stride towards a greener future.
The partnership aims to unite key players across the UK’s food and farming landscape, leveraging private and public finance to bolster farmers’ quest to meet climate and nature goals. The collaboration also calls for a government overhaul of agricultural payments, a move that could redefine the sector’s financial landscape.
In addition to financial support, the partnership will provide farmers with guidance, advice, and tools to help implement transition plans within the food and agriculture sectors. This initiative comes at a critical time, as agriculture, which covers 70% of the UK’s land and contributes to 11% of the UK’s climate emissions, is poised to play a pivotal role in tackling the climate and nature crises.
A recent report by NatWest Group revealed a promising trend: 82% of farmers are ready to tackle climate and nature challenges and transition their growth. However, they need support to make this a reality. In response, NatWest Group has pledged to lend almost GBP 7 billion to UK Agriculture, demonstrating a significant commitment to the sector’s sustainable future.
WWF’s vision for UK farming, as detailed in its Land of Plenty report, paints a picture of a net-zero world teeming with life. This vision includes a fairer market share for growers and producers, high-quality food from circular, regenerative systems, and reconnection between the food people consume and its production methods.
Alison Rose DBE, Chief Executive of NatWest Group, emphasized the need for collective action to secure a sustainable future for the UK Agriculture sector. Tanya Steele CBE, CEO of WWF, echoed this sentiment, stating that proper food security can only be achieved by tackling climate change and protecting and restoring the natural world that supports our farming system.
The partnership was announced following an industry roundtable at the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh, co-hosted by NatWest Group and WWF. The event brought together significant businesses in the Scottish agricultural sector, policymakers, and industry groups, fostering a collaborative environment to discuss the future of UK agriculture.
Photo by Red Zeppelin on Unsplash
