The National Farmers' Union of Wales (NFU Cymru) has launched this year's Sustainable Agriculture Award, which it aims to champion outstanding examples of sustainable farmers and/or farming businesses in Wales.

The award, which is sponsored by Wynnstay Group Plc., was launched at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show Feature County 2023, Regen '23.

The NFU Cymru and Wynnstay Group PLC Sustainable Agriculture Award will be awarded to the farm or farmer who can:

Demonstrate a commitment to the production of high-quality food to world leading standards;
Demonstrate their positive contribution to protecting, maintaining and enhancing the quality of the farmed environment;
Demonstrate their involvement and contribution to the rural economy, rural community and Welsh culture.

The winner of the award will receive £500 and a commemorative accolade.

Aled Jones, NFU Cymru president said: “Welsh farmers make an unparalleled contribution to the economic, environmental, social and cultural well-being of Wales. 

“Welsh farmers are key drivers of our rural economy and are the very heart of our rural communities, the Welsh language and culture."

He added that the NFU Cymru and Wynnstay Group PLC Sustainable Agriculture Award aims to recognise the economic, environment, social and cultural contribution of farming in Wales.

Jones said that the winning will have been judged to have achieved the most "outstanding example" of sustainable farming business in Wales.

The closing date for entries is September 4, 2023. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed at their farm by the judging panel during September and October and the winner will be announced at the NFU Cymru Conference in November 2023. 

NFU Cymru

NFU Cymru launched a report outlining its policy priorities for young farmers to coincide with the final debate of the Agriculture (Wales) Bill in the Senedd on Tuesday (June 20).

Its Farming the future for the next generation report makes key recommendations as to how the Welsh government can support the next generation of farmers in Wales.

The report’s key points and asks include:

Specific asks from the future Sustainable Farming Scheme in relation to supporting the active farmer, smooth transition and the use of capital grants;
Exploring opportunities to make it easier for new and young entrants to access finance;
Prioritising home-produced food and public procurement;
Local authorities recognising the importance of the council farm network;
Ensuring Welsh farming is portrayed accurately in the school curriculum and that children are given the opportunity to experience where their food comes from.