The Soil Association is marking its 80th anniversary with a renewed focus on accelerating the transition to nature-friendly farming and more sustainable food systems. The milestone comes at a time of mounting environmental pressure, with climate change, soil degradation and biodiversity loss increasingly linked to current models of agricultural production and consumption.

Founded in 1946, the organisation has played a central role in the development of organic farming in the UK, working with farmers, food businesses, public sector caterers and communities. Its anniversary programme is intended both to reflect that legacy and to highlight the scale of change still required.

Chief executive, Helen Browning, emphasised the urgency of the challenge: “Humanity’s future depends on our understanding that we are part of nature, not separate from it. Without a thriving natural world, we will not survive. Yet the way we farm and eat today is one of the biggest drivers of environmental damage.” 

As part of the anniversary year, the Soil Association will highlight 80 “voices” drawn from across the food and farming sector, including farmers, growers, educators and community leaders. The initiative will showcase practical examples of approaches that support biodiversity, soil health and more sustainable diets, while also underlining that individual efforts need to be matched by wider structural change.

The organic charity’s forward plan includes supporting farmers to transition towards agroecological practices designed to improve both environmental outcomes and long-term business resilience. It also wants to expand its use of data and evidence in policy engagement, aiming to make sustainable farming approaches more accessible and economically viable.

Other priorities include helping farmers access emerging income streams linked to environmental delivery, such as nature markets, and extending programmes that connect food, education and health. This includes work in schools to increase access to nutritious, sustainably produced meals and improve understanding of food systems among younger generations.

The anniversary will also coincide with a new fundraising campaign, intended to scale up these activities. The Soil Association is seeking support from across the supply chain, including producers, retailers and foodservice operators, as well as from the wider public.