LEAF Unveils ‘Significant Evolution’ of Global Sustainable Agriculture Standard
- gillmcshane
- Nov 6
- 3 min read
LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) has launched version 17.0 of its LEAF Marque Standard to strengthen the application of the internationally recognised environmental assurance scheme across diverse farming contexts around the world as adoption grows.
The updates, which come into effect on 5 May 2026, aim to better support producers in addressing some of the most pressing sustainability challenges within global food and farming systems amid ongoing sector challenges.
LEAF said the changes represent a “significant evolution” in the assurance of more sustainable farming, and reaffirm the organisation’s commitment to providing a “globally relevant and practical framework” to build more resilient farming and food systems based on sustainability, productivity, and profitability.
Over the past three years, LEAF Marque has expanded rapidly, from 922 certified businesses in 2022 (64% based in the UK) to 3,100 certified businesses across 55 countries today, including more than 500 Producer Groups.
Clare Mike, Director, LEAF Marque & International Development at LEAF, said version 17.0 provides a “robust, pragmatic and independent environmental framework” that can be applied across diverse geographies and production systems.
“The new standard is clearer, more adaptable and firmly grounded in real-world application that integrates rigour, insight and measurable progress in response to increasing demands for transparency, accountability, and climate action,” Mike emphasised.
“We’re excited to see the continued adoption of the LEAF Marque Standard by leading retailers, including Tesco, Waitrose, Aldi, and Lidl, and expansion into new sectors beyond fresh produce in line with our five-year strategy.”
The Key Updates Include:
Enhanced Environmental Focus – new requirements address vital sustainability challenges in agriculture including habitat area (5% minimum), soil health, regenerative farming, water management, GHG emissions, peat, livestock, and food waste.
Global Relevance – the updated Standard broadens its scope to better support diverse farming systems and geographies, including LEAF Marque’s growing network of international producers, currently located across 55 countries.
Unique Versatility – version 17.0 of the Standard incorporates Core and Advanced controls which enables greater flexibility for application through supply chains aligned to specific areas of environmental focus. This includes tailoring to reflect localised sustainability needs across the globe.
Integration with the LEAF Sustainable Farming Review (LSFR) – the new version integrates more closely with the LSFR, offering a robust framework for continuous improvement on sustainability goals and ensuring producers are well-prepared for their LEAF Marque audit.
Delivering More Sustainable Farming
A comprehensive review of the standard was undertaken with extensive stakeholder engagement from leading farmers, academics, food retailers and producers world-wide, according to LEAF.
This was carried out alongside public consultations and overseen by the LEAF Marque Technical Advisory Committee.
The updated standard has been developed as a pragmatic model that can be applied on a wide range of farming systems globally in the context of a commercial operating model.
In response to the continued growth of LEAF Marque, LEAF said the roll-out of version 17.0 is backed by a six-figure investment in new IT.
The enhanced infrastructure will improve efficiencies, data collection and reporting, and governance oversight for both farmers and supply chain owners in partnership with Dutch Agri-IT specialists, Agriplace.
The LEAF Marque Standard version 17.0 is available for download now and comes into effect on 5 May 2026.
To support growers through the transition LEAF will host a number of webinar sessions this month that will provide practical guidance and an opportunity to ask questions.
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