Parliamentarians Gather for “A Taste of Agroecology” to Champion Nature-Friendly Farming
Sarah Dyke MP successfully hosted A Festive Taste of Agroecology on 16 December in the House of Commons on behalf of Parliamentarians for Agroecology and Nature- Friendly Farming (P4A). The event was a resounding success, bringing together MPs, Peers, farmers, and food producers to celebrate and showcase the vital role agroecology can play in creating a fairer, healthier, and more resilient food system for the UK.
The event featured a diverse group of agroecological growers and producers from across the country, offering Parliamentarians the opportunity to sample sustainably grown foods while learning about the benefits of agroecology and nature-friendly farming. Attendees were introduced to the ways agroecology supports biodiversity, strengthens climate resilience, and improves public health outcomes.
Agroecology, defined by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization as an integrated approach combining ecological and social principles, was highlighted as a powerful framework for meeting the goals set out in the UK Agriculture Act and the Environmental Improvement Plan. The approach promotes healthy soils, thriving rural economies, reduced dependency on chemical inputs, and greater access to nutritious, affordable food.
The success of the event underscored the growing momentum behind agroecology in UK policymaking, reinforcing the importance of supporting sustainable food systems for the benefit of both people and planet. During the event, P4A launched a new parliamentary briefing that outlined how agroecology can:
- Deliver inclusive economic growth by strengthening small businesses and ensuring value remains within local communities;
- Address health inequalities by increasing access to fresh, seasonal produce and reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods;
- Restore nature and drive environmental recovery by supporting pollinators, enhancing soil carbon, and improving water quality.
Honor Eldridge, Coordinator of Parliamentarians for Agroecology and Nature Friendly Farming, remarked:
“Agroecology is not only a climate and nature solution—it is a food, health, and justice solution. This event shone a light on the inspiring work of farmers who are already leading the transition and demonstrated the practical steps policymakers can take to support them.”
Sarah Dyke, MP for Glastonbury & Somerton and Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Rural Affairs said:
“It was an honour to sponsor the Parliamentarians for Agroecology celebration. It’s vital that we continue to develop a holistic approach to farming, encouraging methods which align with keeping healthy soils, minimising chemical use, increasing biodiversity and supporting sustainable food systems. Agroecology plays a central role in giving people better access to affordable, nutrient-rich foods and I’m delighted to back the important and innovative work of the P4A.”
Gareth Morgan, Head of Farming and Land Use Policy, Soil Association, said:
“Agroecological approaches to growing food, such as organic, already offer practical answers to the challenges facing our food system, and the market for organic produce is growing. With fair support for smaller and organic farms, stronger local supply chains and a national food strategy focused on healthy, sustainable choices, the UK can unlock the full potential of agroecology for climate, nature and health.
Joss MacDonald, Public Affairs Manager at Sustain: the alliance for better food and farming, said:
“Events like this, with genuine cross-party engagement, show that a new type of food and farming system is firmly on the political agenda. The Government’s Food Strategy must reflect the growing appetite for local food which supports our health, our local economies and our natural world.”
Source: ORFC Press