Net Zero, Food and Farming

Neil Ward is Professor of Rural and Regional Development at the University of East Anglia (UEA) in Norwich, UK. He was UEA’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (2014–2021) and was formerly the Director of the Centre for Rural Economy at Newcastle University (2004-2008). He has worked on 50 funded research projects examining agriculture, environment, food and rural development, served as a Cabinet Office advisor on agriculture and rural affairs and has appeared before numerous parliamentary select committees.

"A fascinating and insightful book. It is sympathetic and informative on how the food system got where it is today, and is pragmatic, accessible and detailed on the future outlook. Essential reading for anyone interested in how we can reach net zero through the current food system." Sarah Bridle, Author of Food and Climate Change: Without the Hot AirNeil Ward has written a timely and compelling book about the challenges of net zero for the agri-food system. The book integrates social science research with the science of climate change, drawing on perspectives from the political economy of food and farming, science and technology studies, and research on sustainability transitions. This synthesising approach is essential if we are to rise to the challenge of climate change.Professor Kevin Morgan, author of Worlds of Food: Place, Power and Provenance in the Food Chain"In this rich account of the food system and the challenge of delivering net zero, Neil Ward draws together social science and climate science while also providing sharp historical analysis. Clear and compelling, Ward makes a powerful case for applying historical lessons to implement urgent change in the contemporary agri-food sector. Indeed, while the scientific evidence amassed by Ward shows revolution must happen, the history he details proves, if the right forces align, it can. This is an essential read for anyone interested in food, the environment, agriculture and agricultural history."Polly Russell, Food historian, The British Library"In this book, Neil Ward discusses the potential and challenges of achieving a net zero agri-food system in the UK. He examines the problem through the lens of science, technology and politics, skilfully and effortlessly weaving together the evidence from the scientific literature with his deep knowledge of UK policy and politics. In addition to opportunities for emission reduction and for creating carbon sinks, he also discusses the role of demand-side measures, such as dietary change and reduction of food waste, in a net zero future. This comprehensive assessment of what is possible in the UK is a must read for anyone interested in how we produce our food and what we need to do to effectively tackle climate change."Pete Smith FRS, Director of the Scottish Climate Change Centre of Expertise

• 1. Food, Farming and Climate Change 2. Science, Technology and Politics: The Conceptual Approach 3. Food and Farming in Twentieth Century Britain: Productivism and its Aftermath 4. Cleaning and Greening Food and Farming 5. The Evolution of Climate Science and Climate Politics 6. Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Food, Farming and Land Use 7. Diet, Food and Waste 8. Land Use Change and Greenhouse Gas Removal 9. Farming Practice and Climate Change Mitigation 10. The Dynamics of Transitioning to Net Zero 11. Conclusions: Net Zero, Food and Farming