The Welsh Government published its much anticipated draft Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) in July 2022. It sets out an ambitious and new approach to post-Brexit agricultural support which could dramatically change Welsh farming and landscapes.
Based on the principle of Sustainable Land Management, the SFS would reward farmers for actions to address the nature and climate emergencies alongside sustainable food production. The policy arguably goes beyond the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in supporting wider land management improvement.
This briefing provides the story leading up to the publication of the draft SFS, including the priorities stakeholders have identified throughout the consultation process. It summarises the emerging scheme and reactions to it, as well as plans for transition and further consultation.
Article by Dr Katy Orford, Senedd Research, Welsh Parliament
