King Charles III The Innovator

Considering his traditional upbringing to put it (lightly), King Charles III has long been an advocate for innovation, especially within agriculture. Be that through organic farming, woodland conservation, habitat restoration or even running his Aston Martin on English white wine. As a young prince, his position on sustainability and countryside preservation was then thought to be unorthodox and radical. Forty years on, only now can we appreciate his vision, which today would translate as regenerative farming, carbon footprint and sustainable energy.

He has been involved in various initiatives and organisations aimed at promoting these causes, including:

The Prince’s Countryside Fund: Founded in 2010, which provided grants and support to farmers and rural communities in the UK.

The Duchy Originals: A brand established in 1990 which produces a range of organic and sustainably sourced food and drink products. Profits are used to support a variety of charitable causes, including sustainable farming and rural development.

Highgrove Estate: Transformation of gardens and farmland at the Estate in Gloucestershire into a model sustainable agriculture and land management. Supporting restoration of habitats and diverse range of wildlife and plant species.

The Campaign for Wool: Launched in 2010 to promote the use of wool as a sustainable and environmentally friendly material. Working with farmers, retailers and designers to raise awareness about the benefits and to support the wool industry.

And the list goes on.

The awareness and support that King Charles continues to bring to British agriculture is invaluable to the industry as a whole and its supply chains within it. But, I also think his foresight in ‘thinking the unthinkable’ has enabled others to open their minds and inspire innovation.