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HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES
“It’s a great pleasure to be back here at Groundswell. Last year I was uplifted by the sense of mission, the willingness to share knowledge, and the innovation throughout the Groundswell community. We come together to reaffirm our commitment to a brighter, resilient and regenerative future.
Farming is not simply the act of growing food, it is much bigger than that. It is the stewardship of the land, the health of our soils, the purity of our water, and the resilience of our rural society in harmony with nature.
Demands on land and on farmers have never been greater. A changing climate system and unpredictable weather patterns are exposing weaknesses in conventional thinking. Add to this the economic pressures of rising input costs and volatile markets, it becomes clear we need a different approach.
Regenerative farming offers a hopeful path forward, a way of working with nature, not against it, of enhancing soil health rather than depleting it, of building resilient systems that are economically viable and ecologically sound. It is not a single method or dogma, but a mindset, rooted in curiosity, observation, community and growth.
Farmers have a huge role to play, but they cannot do it alone. We must work harder to ensure society supports those who are taking bold steps towards regenerative practices.
As consumers, we must re‑educate ourselves on what we eat, where it comes from, and the true cost of its production.
To the farmers here today, I offer my respect and my encouragement. You are the heart of this transformation, yours is a profession of huge consequence and uncomplaining graft. If we as a society are to meet the challenges ahead, it will be learning from the land, and those who tend it, with wisdom and humility.
Let this festival be not just a celebration of innovation but a rallying call, for regenerative farming is not a fringe alternative. It must be a foundation stone for British agriculture to help us rebuild the health of our nation.”
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