B&Q leads on peat-free compost

Garden retailer becomes the first to commit to 100 per cent peat-free compost after attention grows on the urgent need to protect peatlands and store carbon.

Trial aims to speed up tree carbon capture

A new trial is testing whether adding basalt or soil from established forests will speed up carbon storage in new tree plantings.

Land in conversion to organic rises

Land set aside for organic farming is up by 11.6 per cent in the last year as certification body says farmers have taken confidence from strong sales in organic food.

BPOC growers face racism and finance barriers

Race has been neglected in debates around farming, ecology and land despite black and people of colour facing numerous barriers, new report finds.

Small fish trade causes food insecurity

Super trawlers are draining the small fish stocks depended on by West African communities to feed European farmed animals, make pet food, dietary supplements or cosmetics.

Switzerland to hold pesticide referendum

Swiss citizens will vote whether to ban artificial pesticides after a transition period of 10 years at a referendum later this month after small farmers back campaign.

Citizens to help shape future of woods

A new inquiry will host a range of people from all walks of life to shape a sustainable future for Britain’s trees as drive for tree planting takes hold across UK.

UK veg season delayed due to poor weather

Torrential rain, cold temperatures and low light during May have led to delays for many new season UK vegetables, including beans, peas, courgettes and salad.

Pesticides 'of all types' damage soil life

Researchers have found comprehensive evidence that pesticides directly harm soil life and the ecosystems it preserves.

Palestine harvests under threat from conflict

Palestinian heritage wheat harvest completed amid fires from conflict and reports of uprooting of crops due to be picked ahead of Eid as tensions rise in the West Bank.

Brexit brings chaos to small business

Brexit has left small businesses reeling as new trade rules mean exports to Europe have ceased in some sectors, while others face thousands in new weekly paperwork costs.