Food Futures

Our industrial food system faces urgent and multifaceted challenges, notably the dominance of monoculture production. This practice not only threatens biodiversity but also carries a substantial carbon and ecological footprint, amplifying vulnerability to ecological and economic shocks like climate change-induced disasters and market fluctuations. Addressing these interconnected issues requires innovative strategies and systemic reforms, particularly within food production.

Redefining the Way we Move Forward

We must shift towards land use management and stewardship approaches, prioritising sustainable practices rooted in bio circular principles and net-zero operations. This transformation is essential to safeguard biodiversity, ensure high standards of food production, and build resilience within our food systems and begin to build low carbon communities.

Building resilient local communities is at the heart of transition; and access to good quality, fresh food that is healthy, for people and planet, is a core element. For years, we have known that our food systems need reimagining. We can contribute to mitigating the environmental impacts associated with food production and consumption, ultimately making a positive difference in the planetary emergency, through our daily choices, particularly in what we eat.

Our Projects

Heritage Reimagined: Minecraft Exploration for Sustainable Food Futures

Young adults (18+) embark on an enriching journey exploring the intersection of agriculture and technology utilising Minecraft Education Edition as a virtual learning platform.

Participants immerse themselves in the estate's storied past, delving into the intricacies of traditional farming practices and food production that once took place within the estate’s walled garden and pineapple house.

Through hands-on exploration and creative expression, participants not only deepen their appreciation for the history of food production through our beautiful walled garden and pineapple house agriculture but also cultivate a sense of stewardship towards sustainable food production practices designing their online food future for the bioregion and for their local community.

The People's Garden

A demonstrator/learning lab for community food production.

We are transforming the historic kitchen garden on the estate into a thriving community plant-production hub, thereby reimagining its role as an integral part of our landscape.

Originating over a century ago, the kitchen garden, complete with a former glasshouse, once supplied sustenance for the early residents of the estate and surrounding community. We will breathe new life into this space, fostering collaboration with the community to co-design and test a pioneering plant production concept, through launching a demonstrator.

Prioritising community involvement and access, we will engage residents in the co-design of the land to co-create an edible landscape for our communities. The land will not only nourish body and mind, educate, and aid in facilitating positive behaviour changes towards plant-based eating but it will also celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and histories embedded in our land.