Uncategorized Archives - Plumbs Dairy

Our farming industry currently stands at a crossroads, grappling with a variety of challenges that threaten its stability and sustainability. From climate-induced crop failures to post-Brexit trade complexities, the sector faces unprecedented pressures. Yet, amidst these seemingly impossible hurdles, new and innovative approaches and policy reforms offer a beacon of hope.  This article delves into the current state of the UK's fruit and vegetable supply chain, highlighting the obstacles it faces and the strides being made towards a more resilient and sustainable future including how small businesses are doing their bit for the local community. Climate Change: A Growing Threat to Crop Yields Recent years have seen the UK's agriculture sector increasingly impacted by extreme weather events. The period between 2023 and 2024 was marked by the wettest 18 months on record, leading to waterlogged soils and significant reductions in crop yields. Vegetable yields dropped by 4.9%, while fruit production saw a 12% decline. The area dedicated to vegetable cultivation also decreased by 6.5%, exacerbating the supply challenges. Farmers are urging the government to implement a strategic plan to bolster food security in the face of escalating climate risks.