The LEAF Marque has been recognised in Defra’s recently released plans for new standards of food procurement across all Government departments and agencies. The LEAF Marque is cited as a solution within the new standards as one of the ways the Government can meet its new sustainability targets.
LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), a membership organisation at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, has championed Integrated Farm Management (IFM) since 1991. IFM looks at the whole farm, enabling farmers from all sectors to achieve high productivity with low environmental impact and is the key principle behind the LEAF Marque.
Farmers certified by the LEAF Marque, farm to the highest standards of environmental care. They take measures to save fuel, reduce energy use, manage water efficiently and enhance biodiversity.
The fact that the Government has identified the LEAF Marque as the environmental food production standard of choice, enforces LEAF Marque as a clear way for farmers from all sectors to demonstrate their environmental credentials.
LEAF’s Commercial Manager, Jeremy Boxall said, ’In setting these standards, the Government are sending out a clear message about their commitment to sustainable food production. LEAF Marque delivers food produced to high standards of environmental care by farmers committed to improving the long term environmental health of their businesses ’ including biodiversity, energy and water use. We are hugely encouraged by the Government’s recognition of the LEAF Marque and hope their lead will encourage other sectors to make similar recommendations.’
