Farmers offered help with natural capital schemes

The partnership has been forged following NFU Mutual research which shows that 24% of the UK farms and estates surveyed are already involved in public or private natural capital initiatives. 

NFU Mutual explained that one of the leading groups on natural capital in England, EFG, is a farmer-owned co-operative. It works with rural organisations, including Natural Capital Advisory and the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, to shape regulated, voluntary, and future compliance markets, driving positive landscape-level environmental impacts.  

‘Supporting the future of farming’

Katy Townsend, NFU Mutual farming propositions consultant, said: “This partnership with EFG marks a significant step in our mission to support the future of farming. By combining our expertise, we can develop the right solutions to address key customer needs and help them effectively manage their natural capital risks.  

“We’ve found that many farmers considering a move into natural capital activities are looking to NFU Mutual to help identify, manage, and insure against the risks involved.   

“Many of the farms and estates already participating in natural capital activities are dedicating between 10–20% of their land to natural capital projects, often without adequate risk protection in place.  

“Farmers’ greatest perceived risk is uncertainty about the future of natural capital markets.”  

Rob Shepherd, EFG chairman, added: “This exciting new partnership between the Environmental Farmers Group and NFU Mutual brings together two organisations with much in common. As a co-operative and a mutual, respectively, we share core values of collaboration, trust, and community. 

“We’re looking forward to working together to help our members understand and maximise the potential of their Natural Capital.” 

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