Video: Soil – A common ground for farmers and city dwellers

As a fourth-generation farmer, my day-to-day is pretty different to those of corporate leaders. Yet, despite the differences in our daily lives, we share an undeniable common ground: soil.

I recently spoke to an audience of these leaders at Somerset House’s Soil exhibition, hosted by Agreena, to invite them to see that soil isn’t just a farmer’s concern; it should be a priority for everyone.

With farmers and corporates meeting face-to-face, the discussions showed that soil is a true leveller.

Leaders from influential corporations – from Barclays to Gails to Wildfarmed – were truly engaged and enthusiastic in conversations about sustainable agriculture, asking questions and demonstrating their genuine interest in the work we as farmers are doing.

I was pleased to hear their recognition and appreciation of our role on the ground, acknowledging the challenges we face daily – from weather to finances.

Thomas Gent, Farmer and Regenerative Agriculture Lead at Agreena © Agreena

In my talk, I presented the transformation I’ve seen with my own eyes. I shared the journey of my family farm in Lincolnshire, our shift towards sustainable farming practices, and the economic and environmental benefits we’ve witnessed.

I emphasised that this isn’t just about changing farming methods; it’s about restoring a balance, shifting the narrative from extraction to regeneration, and working with our best ally – nature.

We know that 95% of our food originates from soil. It’s a living, breathing ecosystem: one teaspoon of healthy soil teems with more microorganisms than there are people on Earth.

Most excitingly, we’re still only scratching the surface of understanding its potential. And as much as us farmers can nurture this element, we can’t do it alone.

We need the backing of big corporations, with big budgets and scientists that can give us even more insight into what we’re working with. Harnessing this biological power to replace synthetic fertilisers or enhance food’s nutritional value naturally, are not just agricultural aspirations; they are tangible opportunities.

© Agreena

In conversation with fellow farmer Fraser Bush, we highlighted the diverse experiences within our (literal) fields, answering questions from the corporate audience, who were particularly interested in yields and governmental support.

My closing invitation was simple: connect with the soil, as we do every day. Touch it, feel it, even smell it.

Especially in a city, this earthy connection is critical to maintaining awareness of our environment, acting as a small reminder of what we’re doing in the countryside.

Walking through the Soil exhibition after the event was a great chance to see an element that I interact with everyday presented in a very different context to what I’m used to.

©  Agreena

It reminded me how important it is for everyone, regardless of their location or occupation, to understand the importance of soil.

Events like this exhibition are not just educational; they are opportunities for change, connecting people of all walks of life and the land that sustains us.

Ultimately, healthy soil means a healthier planet and a more sustainable future for all. It’s a message that goes beyond industries and lifestyles, a call for collective action rooted in the very ground beneath our feet.

After all, we may wear different suits, but we all share the same soil.

© Agreena

To learn more about the science of soil, watch Agreena’s ‘Measuring carbon in soil: Technology and innovation for climate impact’ webinar.

Thomas Gent, Farmer and Regenerative Agriculture Lead at Agreena