South West to host a prestigious seminar on food security and land use

Sustainable food production and land use has never been a hotter topic, with climate change and food security never far from the headlines.

But with so many demands on our land – from producing food and fuel for a growing population, to conserving biodiversity and protecting the environment – how can farmers and policy makers possibly find a balance?

"Food security is going to be a major issue in the coming years, and the potential conflict between environment and food production is very much coming into the public debate," says Allen Cotton, Chairman of the Royal Bath and West of England Society’s Conference Committee. "Finding a balance is very important – we need to identify local solutions to a global problem."

The Royal Bath and West of England Society has therefore joined forces with the Royal Geographical Society to hold a prestigious one-day seminar examining the issues facing us in the years ahead. Bringing together world-renowned experts in their fields, the conference will offer delegates an insight into some of the problems and solutions relating to future sustainable land use in rural areas.

"It is absolutely crucial that we debate these issues – they are all inter-related and touch across everything the Royal Geographical Society stands for," says Brig. John Hemsley, a Fellow of the RGS. "It is of great national importance, and this is a wonderful opportunity for our two eminent societies to work together."

The Government recently published a package of measures, highlighting its concerns over food security and climate change. "We need a radical rethink of how we produce and consume our food," said Defra secretary Hilary Benn. The key challenge is to produce greater quantities of affordable, safe food without damaging natural resources in a global context.

"The future has to be sustainable production. We need to consider what the food system should look like in 20 years, and what must happen to get there. We need everyone in the food system to get involved – from farmers and retailers to the health service, schools and consumers."

Speakers at the seminar, which will be chaired by the Earl of Selborne, include Lord Cameron, Dr Richard Cresswell, Professor Sir Brian Hoskins, and Professor Ian Mercer. Using the West Country as a model, they will cover such topics as climate change; population increase; pollution concerns; security of food, energy and economy; biodiversity; and the impact of scientific developments, including pesticides and genetic modification.

The seminar, entitled Planning a Rural Future – Land Use Priorities - will be held at the Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, on 3 November, from 10am to 4pm. For more information or to book your place contact Alison Ward on 01749 822243 or alison.ward@bathandwest.co.uk. Places cost £20 for members and £25 for non-members, including lunch and refreshments. The seminar will provide attendees with two CPD points.