“We Can’t Weather This Alone”: UK Growers Sound Alarm Over Climate Crisis

Few UK farmers have escaped the mounting pressure of the climate crisis in recent years. From drought to flooding and everything in between, extreme weather events are no longer occasional anomalies—they’re becoming standard challenges.

As a result, growers across the country are calling on the government to step in with real, lasting support to help them adapt.

A recent national survey revealed that 98% of UK farmers have been impacted by at least one major weather event in the past five years. From scorching heatwaves and parched soil to torrential rains and unseasonal frosts, the list is growing. Over 80% say their livelihoods are at risk, while nearly nine in ten report decreased productivity and reduced crop yields.

Anthony Curwen, an arable farmer in Kent, voiced his concern:

“It’s getting increasingly difficult to farm given the impacts we’re now seeing with climate change. We’ve gone from extreme drought to biblical floods and back to drought in the space of just a few years. It’s devastating and many of us in farming now fear for a sustainable future.”

For growers like Curwen, the challenge isn’t just about survival—it's about how to plan in a world where weather extremes are becoming unpredictable and more damaging.

“What we need most now from government is a bit of stability and some better support to help us become resilient to these impacts. In an era when the climate is giving us a kicking, we need government to have our back, not add to the uncertainty.”

Industry leaders and fresh produce organisations are urging government ministers to prioritise adaptation measures in national food and farming policy. They’re calling for targeted support to fund resilient infrastructure, access to climate-smart technologies, and a coherent strategy to future-proof UK agriculture.

In particular, there’s growing demand for:

• Investment in precision irrigation systems and water storage.

• Funding for flood defences and protective crop infrastructure.

• Development of climate-resilient crop varieties.

• Policy stability that gives farmers confidence to invest in long-term changes.

With the UK’s food self-sufficiency declining and domestic produce supply increasingly at the mercy of the elements, many believe it’s time for farming to be treated as a strategic national priority.

“If we’re serious about protecting the future of British farming, we must put innovation at the heart of our response. From smarter irrigation systems to climate-resilient crops, investing in new technology isn’t optional—it’s essential to ensure our growers can survive and thrive in an increasingly unpredictable environment," said Nigel Jenney, Chief Executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC).

The message is clear: the climate crisis is not a distant threat—it’s already reshaping the UK's agricultural landscape. And without decisive government action, the sector may struggle to keep feeding the nation.