Ask anyone what a farmer does, and the answer is usually quite simple; we grow food. Filling people’s plates three times a day (or more) is what farmers are famous for. However, as the world faces the looming triple threat of the climate, biodiversity and health crises, there is a growing realisation that land is important for providing more than just calories.

Farmers are responsible for managing 70% of the UK’s land. We have the potential to manage that land in a way that enhances biodiversity, absorbs carbon, reduces air and water pollution, generates renewable energy, mitigates the impacts of a changing climate, creates beautiful spaces for people to enjoy and sustainably produces nutritious food. The rural sector can deliver nature-based solutions to fix many of the problems the world is currently facing. That’s why I love it and why it is the most exciting and hopeful area to be working in today.