Led by BBC Radio 4’s Farming Today presenter Charlotte Smith, pictured below, this year’s event will take a new approach – an interview with two knowledgeable guests rather than presentations - discussing whether we can save the planet, from a farming perspective, or if it’s too late.

The traditional close to the conference will remain, offering time for audience questions, input and debate. It takes place at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex and sponsors include the NFU.

Conference organising committee chair Duncan Rawson said: “It is often said that while the industry is a major contributor to climate destruction, it potentially provides many of the answers too. That by changing farming practices, and doing things differently, we can save the planet and feed an ever-demanding population to boot.

“But is that true, or is it too late? Everyone is talking about carbon zero, but is it achievable? We talk about biodiversity loss, but isn’t the damage done irreversible now? Can we shed our reliance on artificial fertilisers when we have an obligation to provide affordable food to a growing population?”

The guest speakers who will be addressing this issue are Sue Pritchard, Chief Executive of independent charity the Food, Farming, and Countryside Commission (FFCC), and Phil Jarvis, Chair of Albanwise Farming and Environment.

The conference runs from 7pm to 9pm on Wednesday 1 November, 6pm to 10pm if attending in person including pre- and post-event refreshments and networking opportunities. The conference is free to attend, in person or online, but visitors must register here.