This thought-provoking session focused on the role that farming plays in addressing human and planetary health. The panel highlighted how the current global food system is contributing to obesity, malnutrition, and related diseases, while also creating problems for the planet.

Key highlights included:

• Tom Pearson, a GP, farmer, and Aiva customer, recently completed a Nuffield Scholorship titled “What can farmers do to make a positive impact on the health of their local community?”
• Tom has been farming regeneratively for five years, aiming to grow nutrient-dense food for local schools and shops.
• Believes farms can provide nutritious, healthy food locally to schools and shops and is working towards growing food from his farm rather than commodities, while reducing chemicals and increasing nutrient density.
• Other panellists included representatives from Yeo Valley and a nutritionist/vet, who shared their interests in increasing food nutrient density and reducing processed foods, however the major block is large commercial companies which would be majorly impacted

One clear message emerged: large commercial food systems remain the biggest barrier to progress—but farms have the power to lead change from the ground up.

This practical session featured direct experiences from farmers and agronomists navigating the realities of regenerative agriculture.

James Bucher (Aiva customer) shared his 8-year journey towards a regenerative system:

• He improved soil health by stopping land being let to potato and vegetable growers who damaged the structure of the soil.
• Planted cover crops to regain soil health.
• Eventually retired his agronomist after they weren’t willing to adapt away from chemical-heavy, conventional recommendations.

Ed Brown, an experienced agronomist, spoke about his past role at Hutchinsons:

• Argued that regenerative agronomists deserve higher recognition and pay, as they go beyond following the conventional T0/T1/T2/T3 spray schedule.
• His comments doubled as an informal endorsement of holistic agronomy from firms such as Edaphos Agronomy, showcasing the added value of flexible, soil-first advisory models.

Other farmers have taken their own initiative by completing BASIS and FACTS training to take control of their own agronomy and crop walking, further reinforcing the shift towards knowledge-led independence.

From restoring peatlands and improving food quality, to rethinking agronomy, Groundswell continues to be the space where these vital conversations take root.

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