Food & Drink
Women in farming
Soil Association’s Helen Browning explores how diversity in farming can support solutions for climate, nature and health.
8 March 2024
At its first annual conference, UK ORGANIC (formerly Organic Trade Board/OTB) set out its ambition to unite representatives across the supply chain to reenergise the organic sector and arrest the current volume decline the industry has been experiencing.
Established as a Community Interest Company (CIC), UK ORGANIC (UKO) has put forward a plan to serve as the sector’s marketing agency, to drive a unified message and create renewed consumer interest.
The move has been prompted by the urgent need for a fresh approach to secure a healthy future for all organically certified producers, processors and products.
The organisation will also support consumers to access products grown without harmful chemicals, promoting health and sustainability for all.
‘Organic farming represents the gold standard for sustainable agriculture. It is the only certified agricultural system that offers quantifiable climate and biodiversity outcomes. It is legally binding and globally recognised.
‘Inadequate funding and a fragmented landscape have meant however that the organic sector has not been able to capitalise on the key benefits of organic food in the shopper’s mind. While numerous sustainable farming initiatives are competing in a crowded space and risk confusing consumers further.
‘This realisation necessitates a transformative approach to developing a clear strategy for organic development, and the founding of UKO signifies this necessary change in mindset. With a clear vision, alternative funding, and inclusive approach, UKO is poised to lead the charge towards a sustainable and thriving organic industry.’
ADRIAN CARNE
Chair of UKO
As a consumer association, UKO will set out to simplify messaging, raise awareness and create demand for certified organic products – including textiles, cosmetics and other non-food items.
It aims to deliver strategic consumer activation and communication programmes to support consumers in making informed purchasing decisions.
Operational costs will not rely on membership fees. Instead, UKO will seek funding from external stakeholders, including philanthropic foundations and government bodies that have aligned interests to consolidate organic’s renewed efforts.
Through an inclusive approach and at no cost, UKO invites certified producers, processors, brands, distributors, retailers and all interested parties (including press) to join as Fellow Supporters.
Fellow Supporters will receive valuable resources and will unite the sector, helping to achieve common goals.
Former members of the OTB and organisations who are interested in a more active role have the opportunity to become Affiliate Supporters for a minimal fee.
For those interested in joining as a Fellow Supporter or as an Affiliate Supporter please sign up here.
Soil Association’s Helen Browning explores how diversity in farming can support solutions for climate, nature and health.
Yeo Valley Organic co-founder Mary Mead OBE reflects on her role in the journey of Britain’s largest organic brand.
’Regenerative’ is the new buzz word in food and farming – but what does it mean, and how is it different from organic?
Yeo Valley Organic’s Tim Mead explains why one of the answers to our climate crisis could be right under our feet.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Weekly ethical news, offers, comps and a free digital mag (quarterly) – what’s not to love?
