UK: LEAF Marque Global Standard consultation

LEAF, the leading environmental farming charity, is embarking on a two phase consultation of its LEAF Marque Global Standard. LEAF Marque is a global food standard which shows that food has been produced to the highest standards of environmental care. It is a higher level scheme that builds upon the ‘foundation’ assurance schemes such Red Tractor Farm Assurance and GLOBALGAP.

Speaking on the consultation, Anthony Goggin, LEAF Marque Technical Manager explained:

“We review the LEAF Marque standard every two years to ensure it remains robust, keeps abreast of current policy and technical developments and is fit for purpose. It is critical that we get broad stakeholder involvement in its update. We want to hear from farmers, growers, environmentalists, NGOs, scientists, consumer organisations, wider food industry and the general public. We will be seeking views on a whole range of issues from the overall content of the standard, its scope, clarity and long term applicability. There will be an opportunity for stakeholders to give constructive comments.”

“We want to know whether the standard goes far enough in addressing key areas such as soil conservation, water and energy efficiency and social sustainability; are there any gaps?” continued Mr Goggin. “Should the standard address any issues in more detail? Is it clear and coherent? What type of monitoring should we undertake, in order to address these gaps and assess the sustainability of a farm?”

“The standard has always driven change. Our aim is to deliver continuous improvement in global sustainable land based production and be clear on where we need to concentrate our efforts over the coming five year period” concluded Mr Goggin.

The first part of the consultation period began on Friday 2nd March 2012 and closes on the 30th April 2012. The second part will begin in June.

For more information:
Anthony Goggin
LEAF UK
[email protected]