51AVÊÓÆµ

In your field: Dan Jones - 'I feel a renewed sense of confidence in the future'

Dan Jones farms 650 ewes at the National Trust-owned Parc Farm, which sits on the Great Orme on the North Wales coast near Llandudno

Farmers Guardian
clock • 2 min read
Dan's 51AVÊÓÆµBusiness Tenancy covers the 58 hectares (143  acres) at Parc Farm, plus 364ha (900 acres) of grazing rights on the hill
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Dan's 51AVÊÓÆµBusiness Tenancy covers the 58 hectares (143 acres) at Parc Farm, plus 364ha (900 acres) of grazing rights on the hill

Having returned from Rome, the final stop on my Global Focus Programme (GFP) tour, I am filled with gratitude from my six-week journey exploring agriculture and food systems across the globe.

The GFP, organised by the Nuffield Farming Scholarships, provided a unique opportunity to gain insights into the challenges faced by farmers and food producers worldwide, and the innovative solutions being developed to tackle them.Ìý

My travels took me to Borneo, Taiwan, Japan, Poland and Italy. I was alongside 11 other scholars from a range of backgrounds, including a hemp grower from Brisbane, Australia; a director of urban farming from Philadelphia, USA; and a potato grower from the Netherlands.

This diverse group provided a rich exchange of ideas throughout our journey.

While each country presented its own unique challenges, from deforestation in Borneo to the pressures of industrial agriculture in Poland, one common thread emerged: the resilience and adaptability of farmers across the globe.

READ MORE:ÌýNFU to organise mass lobby to ensure farmers' voices are heard on APR

From climate change to the ageing agricultural workforce, farmers everywhere face similar issues. My travels have reinforced to me the overarching importance of promoting sustainable food systems.

While the agricultural insights gained during my journey were invaluable, it was the unique cultural experiences that truly enriched my adventure – from enjoying fine Italian cuisine, to spending time in a traditional longhouse in Borneo.

As I moved from country to country, it became apparent that agriculture is deeply intertwined with culture across the globe.

Farming serves as the backbone of traditional values, languages and systems, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the agricultural landscape and the social environment.

This connection is not only vital for the communities who rely on these ecosystems for their livelihoods, but also plays a critical role in conservation.

The traditional knowledge and sustainable practices are essential for preserving the balance of these ecosystems.

As I reflect on this incredible experience, I am struck by the determination and passion of farmers worldwide. It has been a privilege to learn and share with farmers and communities from across the countries, as well as from my fellow scholars.

Through our collective commitment to innovation and collaboration, I feel a renewed sense of confidence that we can build a brighter and more sustainable future for agriculture.

My most cherished memory was while walking towards the Iban tribal settlement, deep in the Borneo jungle, where we saw an orangutan high up in a tree, tucking into a coconut. These extraordinary moments have left an indelible mark on my heart.

The level of camaraderie and kinship we shared is something few will ever experience, and for that, I am immensely grateful.

READ MORE: Autumn Budget 2024: What do farmers need to think about?

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