the food company.
a Citizen Owned Enterprise (COE)
Costing:
Commercial Greenhouses £8Bn
Aeroponic/Hydroponic Vertical Farms £1.5Bn
Regenerative Ocean Farming £500m
Total Investment £10 Billion
FOOD
noun
AGRICULTURE
Any nutritious substance that people or animals eat or drink or that plants absorb in order to maintain life and growth.
“There’s enough on this planet for everyone’s needs but not for everyone’s greed.”
Mahatma Gandhi
Overview: According to the “United Kingdom Food Security Report 2021: Theme 2: UK Food Supply Sources” last updated on 5th October 2023, “About 54% of food on plates is produced in the UK, including the majority of grains, meat, dairy, and eggs. Self-sufficiency is about 54% in fresh vegetables, and 16% in fruit, as subsequent indicators will set out.”
The UK is not self-sufficient in its means of food production.
The UK imports 48% of the total food it consumes and this percentage is rising. Therefore, as a food-trading nation, the UK relies heavily on imports to feed itself and drive economic growth. UK threat - Global Food Security
Food Banks: 2 million people in 2021/2022 use food banks.
2021 UK Agricultural Exports: £2 billion.
2021 The Netherlands Agricultural Exports: £86 billion.
The Netherlands are the second largest exporter in the world behind only The United States of America, who shipped £146 billion ($177 billion). They achieved this by utilising modern high-tech commercial greenhouses. The Netherland is 1/5 the sizeof the UK.
As the United Kingdom's population nears 80 million and the global forecast points to 10 billion by 2050, our food supply chains, both domestic and international, are set to face their sternest tests yet. The dilemma we encounter is not just complex; it's existential. With finite land at our disposal, we are caught in a paradox of prioritizing housing against agriculture, a choice between shelter and sustenance.
The path of agriculture has evolved dramatically from a traditional way of life to a global enterprise, especially as the world's population surged past 2 billion by 1927, necessitating a shift from animal and human labour to the might of machines. Today, with challenges like climate change, diminishing arable land, and the looming scarcity of crucial fertilizers like phosphorus, the question looms large: How do we sustainably feed a growing population?
The answer lies in innovation and a bold reimagining of our approach to food production. We can draw inspiration from the Netherlands, a country that has become a global leader in agricultural technology through its investment in research and development. By exploring the genomics of seeds and plant species, and implementing hectares of commercial greenhouses and vertical farms, they've shown us a path forward.
Similarly, the GreenWave model presents an opportunity to harness the power of our oceans. By cultivating seaweed, kelp, and various shellfish in regenerative ocean farms, we not only produce food but also restore marine ecosystems and sequestor carbon from the earths atmosphere.
Moreover, the advancement in clean meat technologies and collagen leather represents a sustainable alternative to traditional livestock farming, reducing the strain on our land and resources.
To secure our nation's future, it is imperative that we increase the UK's food self-sufficiency from the current 50% to a full 100%. This is not just a matter of national pride but of survival. It requires a comprehensive strategy encompassing technological innovation, sustainable practices, and a commitment to transforming our agricultural and food production systems.
The task before us is daunting, but the spirit of human ingenuity has always risen to meet the challenges of its time. Let us unite in this cause, for the sake of our nation, and for the future of our planet.
We must address this paradox that lies at the very heart of our nation, a contradiction that challenges the survival of our society—the pressing issue of food security in the face of abundance and waste.
In our United Kingdom, a nation renowned for its economic prowess, standing as the sixth-largest economy in the world, we find ourselves entangled in a web of food insecurity and waste. Astonishingly, we discard around 9.5 million tonnes of food annually, a stark testament to the inefficiencies plaguing our food system.
Yet, amidst this wastefulness, a more pressing issue casts a shadow over our collective conscience. Over 14.5 million of our fellow citizens grapple with the harsh realities of poverty, with an alarming number relying on food banks for sustenance. In a land of plenty, the existence of over 2,565 food banks, distributing millions of food parcels to those in crisis, is a glaring indictment of our current system.
The challenges we face are further compounded by inflation, which has surged to unprecedented levels, exacerbating the cost of living crisis and pushing the essentials out of reach for many. This scenario begs the question—why, in one of the world's most formidable economies, do we witness such disparities?
Our reliance on international supply chains for nearly half of our food intake reveals a vulnerability in our national security. With a growing population and the specter of global supply chain disruptions, the imperative for self-sufficiency in food production has never been more critical.
As we stand on the brink of potential global conflicts and environmental challenges, the specter of food supply weaponization looms large, echoing the energy crises of the past. It is a stark reminder of the precariousness of our current dependencies and the urgent need for domestic resilience.
The solution lies in a bold and visionary leap towards self-sufficiency. I propose the establishment of a £10 billion investment in an citizen-owned food company, dedicated to harnessing our land, our seas, and even the subterranean spaces beneath our feet to ensure our food security.
This initiative will not only aim to achieve self-sufficiency but will also position the UK as a leader of innovation in food production, contributing to the global supply chain and supporting the world's growing population.
Furthermore, we must embrace the restoration of our lands and oceans, repairing the damage wrought by centuries of industrialization. Our commitment to conservation and sustainable practices will ensure that our efforts to secure food do not come at the expense of our planet's health.
By fostering regional food cooperatives, we will invigorate local economies, create jobs, and reduce our reliance on costly imports. And through the development of cultured meats and sustainable alternatives, we will address the environmental and ethical concerns associated with traditional livestock farming.
We have the opportunity to redefine our approach to food security, to build a system that is sustainable, ethical, and resilient. Let us rise to this challenge, for the sake of our nation, our people, and our future.
Food £10 Billion Investment
An investment in Great Britain’s food production infrastructure is long past due. This proposal seeks to invest £10 billion to build vast hectares of climate controlled commercial greenhouses, Hydroponic/Aeroponic vertical farms in urban and underground locations, as well as coastal ocean farms to grow Kelp and Bivalves such as; Scallops, Mussels, Clams and Oysters. All of this is with the aim of increasing our food independence from 54% to 100%.
Great Britain is need of revolutionary change in its approach to food production and sustainability. The objective of this proposal is to present a pragmatic plan for achieving food independence in the nation. With a focus on innovative farming methods, this project aims to address the crucial need for a self-sufficient and environmentally conscious food system.
This proposal involves a substantial investment of £10 billion, a figure that signifies a serious commitment towards reshaping Great Britain’s agricultural landscape. This investment is not just a financial allocation; it represents a fundamental shift in how food is produced, distributed, and consumed within the country. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, this initiative seeks to establish a model of food production that is resilient, efficient, and future-proof.
Envisioning a future where Great Britain is not only self-sufficient in food production but also a leader in sustainable agricultural practices is at the heart of this proposal. The strategies outlined here aim to harness the potential of urban and rural landscapes alike, transforming them into productive, green spaces. Through the implementation of climate-controlled commercial greenhouses, vertical farming, and ocean farming, this plan seeks to maximize crop yield and diversity, ensuring that the nation's food supply is robust against the challenges posed by climate change and global market fluctuations that may affect supply chains.
The challenges of modern agriculture and food distribution are manifold, yet they present unique opportunities. By integrating innovative farming techniques into the fabric of urban and rural communities, this proposal not only addresses the issue of food independence but also contributes to environmental sustainability, economic growth, and community wellbeing. The commitment to invest £10 billion is a testament to the importance of this initiative, underlining the need for decisive action and long-term planning.
Conclusion
This proposal represents a bold step forward in Great Britain's journey towards a sustainable and self-reliant future. It is an invitation to embrace innovation, to think differently about our relationship with food, and to invest in a system that benefits not just the current generation but also those that will follow.
Vertical Farming in Urban and Underground Areas
Vertical farming in urban and underground settings is a groundbreaking approach to agriculture that maximizes space efficiency by growing crops in vertically stacked layers. This method is particularly suited for urban environments where space is a premium. Additionally, repurposing underground structures, like disused coal mines, offers a unique opportunity to expand agricultural space without encroaching on urban or natural landscapes.
Space Optimization: Vertical farming dramatically increases the amount of produce that can be grown per square foot compared to traditional farming methods.
Energy Efficiency: These farms can utilize renewable energy sources and advanced LED lighting, minimizing their carbon footprint.
Controlled Environment: Like the greenhouses, these environments are immune to external weather, ensuring consistent production.
Ocean Farming for Kelp and Bivalves
Ocean farming, particularly for kelp and bivalves like oysters and mussels, presents a sustainable way to produce food. These species require no feed, fertilizers, or freshwater, making them extremely environmentally friendly.
Ecosystem Services: Kelp and bivalves contribute to cleaning the water by absorbing nutrients and filtering out pollutants, thus improving ocean health.
Carbon Sequestration: Kelp forests are efficient at sequestering carbon, helping mitigate climate change effects.
These marine products are not only low in environmental impact but also high in nutritional value, providing essential minerals and vitamins.
The £10 billion investment will be strategically allocated across various initiatives to ensure balanced development in all proposed areas:
Infrastructure Development: Building and equipping greenhouses, vertical farms, and ocean farming facilities.
Research and Development: Funding for continuous innovation in sustainable agriculture technology.
Community and Economic Development: Investments in local communities for job creation and training programs.
Transparent and Accountable Management: Establishing clear governance for the allocation and use of funds.
Impact Assessment: Regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure the funds are creating the desired impact.
Cooperative for Distribution
A cooperative model will be developed to manage the distribution of produce. This approach ensures that farmers get fair compensation, and consumers have access to fresh, locally-grown food.
Support for Local Economies
Direct Sales to Consumers and Retailers: Strengthening local economies by keeping the supply chain short and efficient.
Community Engagement: Encouraging community involvement and support for local produce.
Online Grocery Orders
Direct-to-consumer online orders will be a cornerstone of the distribution model, enhancing convenience and accessibility for consumers.
Convenience and Waste Reduction
Streamlined Supply Chain: Reducing food waste through better demand forecasting and reduced transportation needs.
A significant portion of the annual revenues will be reinvested and dedicated to R&D in sustainable agriculture technologies, ensuring the UK stays at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
Continuous Improvement
Technological Advancements: Developing new methods for more efficient and sustainable farming.
Adaptation to Climate Change: Research focused on crops and farming practices that can withstand changing climate conditions.
Job Creation
This initiative is expected to create a multitude of jobs across various sectors, including agriculture, technology, and distribution.
Training Programs: Investing in training and education to equip the workforce with necessary skills.
Career Opportunities: Creating long-term career paths in sustainable agriculture.
Environmental Impact Assessment
Sustainability Analysis
Regular assessments to ensure that the farming practices are sustainable and have minimal negative impact on the environment.
Eco-friendly Practices
Reducing Carbon Footprint: Emphasizing practices that lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Biodiversity Conservation: Ensuring farming practices do not harm local ecosystems.
Policy and Regulation Support
Government Collaboration
Working closely with government bodies to ensure supportive policies and regulations are in place to facilitate this large-scale project.
Regulatory Framework
Incentivizing Sustainable Practices: Developing policies that encourage sustainable agriculture.
Streamlining Approvals: Simplifying processes for setting up new farming ventures.
Public Awareness and Education
Community Engagement
Educational campaigns and community programs to raise awareness about the benefits of local, sustainable food production.
Promotional Strategies
Workshops and Seminars: Engaging with the public to promote understanding and participation.
Marketing Campaigns: Highlighting the benefits of supporting local agriculture.
We invite all stakeholders, including government bodies, private investors, and the community, to support and participate in this transformative project. Together, we can realize the vision of a self-sufficient, sustainable, and prosperous future for Great Britain.
FOOD STRUCTURE:
Food Security: Become 100% Independent in Food Production.
Boost local domestic homegrown produce.
Increase variety of Great British produce through controlled environmental setting.
LAND: Climate Controlled Commercial Greenhouses
SEA: Ocean Farms: Underwater forests growing Kelp and Bivalves such as; Scallops, Mussels, Clams and Oysters.
UNDERGROUND: Vertical Farms to grow food 24/7 365 days per year.
The Citizen Owned Food Co.
The journey of human population growth, from the 1st billion in 1804 to the 8 billion mark we've reached in 2024, is nothing short of remarkable. Yet, this incredible milestone brings with it challenges of an unprecedented scale, especially in the realm of food security.
LAND
Achieve 100% Food Security.
Homegrown local and sustainable produce.
Commercial Greenhouses promote higher yields, lower production and maintenance costs, and year-round growing 24/7.
Become a world leading agricultural exporter to the global supply chain.
SEA
20 Acre Ocean Farms
Seaweed & Kelp, bivalves; Oysters, Clams, Mussels and Scallops.
Zero-input food. It requires no additional fresh water, fertilizer, pesticides, feed or soil to grow.
A 20 acre farm of Kelp sequesters around15 - 160 tonnes of carbon per year.
SUBTERRANEAN
Conversion and repurposing of the estimated 150,000 abandoned shafts and 25,000km-sq of mines in the UK into Aeroponic/Hydroponic Vertical Farms.
Yield up to ten times more than traditional methods above ground.
Ability to grow year round 24/7.
Reducing the strain on farmland as food demand increases along with UK population set to reach 80 million people by 2050.
LAND: FOOD PART I - Commercial “High-Tech” Greenhouses £8Bn
Grow fruit and vegetables 24/7
The story of the Netherlands, a small country with a grand vision that revolutionized its agricultural sector over the past two decades is one of transformation, innovation, and resilience that has not only reshaped a nation but also set a global benchmark in sustainable agriculture.
Over twenty years ago, the Netherlands faced a daunting challenge: how to feed its 17 million people with limited resources. The answer lay in an ambitious mission: to double food production while halving resource usage. Today, this small nation, merely a quarter the size of Great Britain, has not only achieved this goal but has also emerged as the world's second-largest exporter of agricultural products by value, trailing only behind the United States.
This remarkable journey was fueled by a collective memory of hardship—the harrowing famine experienced during World War II—which ignited a relentless pursuit of agricultural innovation. The Dutch commitment to research and development led to groundbreaking advancements in food production. Through the use of sophisticated greenhouses, Dutch farmers can now produce yields that were once deemed impossible, using significantly less water and fertilizer compared to traditional methods.
In 2021, the Netherlands exported an astonishing £86 billion worth of agricultural products, ranging from flowers and vegetables to dairy and meats. This feat is a testament to the country's forward-thinking approach and its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges.
The heart of this agricultural renaissance is the high-tech greenhouses that dot the Dutch landscape. These marvels of modern agriculture utilize environmentally-friendly techniques to overcome challenges such as an aging farmer population, shrinking farmland, and the threats posed by climate change. Covering an expanse 56% larger than Manhattan, these greenhouses are not just facilities for growing crops; they are symbols of sustainability and efficiency.
Central to this innovation is the Wageningen University and Research (WUR), the world's leading agricultural research institution. Located a mere 50 miles southeast of Amsterdam, WUR is the Silicon Valley of agriculture, driving advancements that have significantly reduced water dependence for key crops by up to 90% and eradicated the need for chemical pesticides in greenhouses.
The Dutch model, often referred to as "Agriculture 2.0," is not just a national success story; it is a blueprint for the future of global agriculture. It demonstrates that through innovation, commitment, and sustainable practices, it is possible to meet the growing demands for food while preserving our planet for future generations.
As we stand at the crossroads of environmental sustainability and food security, let us draw inspiration from the Netherlands' journey. Let their success motivate us to embrace innovation, invest in research and development, and pursue a path of sustainable agriculture that benefits not only our nations but the entire world.
Clean Meat
In an era marked by rapid global population growth and increasing environmental concerns, the quest for sustainable and ethical food sources has never been more critical. Today, I am here to discuss an extraordinary leap forward in this quest: the advent of cultured or lab-grown meat, a technology that promises to revolutionize our approach to meat production and consumption.
Cultured meat, also known as clean meat, is cultivated from animal cells in controlled environments, such as bioreactors, without the need to raise and slaughter animals. This innovative process begins with the collection of a small sample of animal cells, which are then nurtured and encouraged to proliferate into muscle tissues, eventually forming meat products ranging from burgers to steaks. This method not only bypasses the ethical dilemmas associated with traditional animal farming but also significantly reduces the environmental impact of meat production.
The sustainability benefits of cultured meat cannot be overstated. Traditional livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. In contrast, clean meat production demands substantially fewer resources, including land, water, and feed, and results in lower emissions, making it a far more environmentally friendly alternative.
Moreover, cultured meat addresses the ethical concerns tied to industrial farming by offering a cruelty-free alternative. This aligns with the growing societal demand for more humane and ethical food choices, reflecting our collective conscience.
As we look towards a future where the global population is set to reach 9 billion by 2050, clean meat emerges as a beacon of hope for food security. It presents a more efficient way to produce protein, alleviating the pressure on our planet's finite resources and ensuring a steady supply of meat to meet the escalating demand.
Additionally, cultured meat promises health benefits by reducing the risk of contaminants and eliminating the need for antibiotics and growth hormones commonly used in conventional farming. This heralds a future where meat is not only kinder but safer and healthier.
The clean meat industry has witnessed rapid growth, with pioneers such as Memphis Meats, Aleph Farms, and Eat Just leading the charge in research, development, and commercialization. These key players are not only breaking new ground in clean meat production but also paving the way for future innovations in sustainable food sources.
The question of when clean meat will become a mainstream staple is complex, dependent on regulatory approvals, consumer acceptance, and cost reductions. However, the trajectory is clear—with ongoing advancements and decreasing production costs, cultured meat is poised to become a significant part of our dietary landscape.
In closing, cultured meat represents not just an alternative to traditional meat but a new paradigm in our food system. It offers a path to a more sustainable, ethical, and secure food future. As we stand on the cusp of this revolution, it is imperative that we support and invest in this transformative technology, for it holds the key to addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
FOOD PART III - Regenerative Ocean Farms £500m
In our relentless pursuit of progress since the dawn of the second industrial revolution in 1870, we have harnessed the elements – land, air, and particularly the oceans – to an unprecedented extent. Our achievements are monumental, from the sprawling railroads that crisscross continents to the airplanes that traverse our vast skies, and even to our remarkable feat of landing on the moon. Yet, this relentless march of progress has not been without its costs, especially to our oceans, which have borne the brunt of our industrial expansion and environmental oversight.
As we advanced, burning coal, oil, and gas with little restraint, and employing chemicals in ways we scarcely understood, we inadvertently set the stage for an environmental reckoning. The oceans, a crucial life-support system of our planet, have been compromised, their health and the bounty they offer under threat. Despite the warnings from the scientific community, the inertia of economic interests and the machinery of lobbying have often silenced the call for reform.
But amidst these challenges, there lies a beacon of hope, a solution as vast and promising as the oceans themselves – regenerative ocean farming. This innovative approach, requiring an investment of £500 million into creating 25,000 ocean farms, each spanning 20 acres, represents not just an opportunity for sustainable food production but a comprehensive strategy for ocean restoration and carbon drawdown.
These underwater farms, dedicated to the cultivation of macroalgae, kelp, and other seaweeds, promise to transform our coastal waters into thriving underwater forests, teeming with biodiversity. By integrating shellfish farms into these kelp forests, we can create a symbiotic ecosystem that not only produces megatons of food but also serves as a bulwark against environmental degradation.
The cultivation of seaweed and shellfish in these regenerative farms offers a multifaceted solution. It is a process that naturally filters and purifies the water, sequestering carbon and nitrogen, and thereby mitigating the effects of climate change. Moreover, these farms provide essential habitats, contributing to the restoration of marine ecosystems and the replenishment of fish populations.
The economic implications of this venture are profound. Beyond the environmental benefits, regenerative ocean farming heralds a new era of job creation, from the construction and maintenance of these farms to the processing and distribution of their yield. This initiative could position the UK as a leader in sustainable aquaculture, significantly contributing to our agricultural exports and bolstering our economy.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the path before us is clear. The challenges our oceans face are daunting, but the solutions, like the seas themselves, are vast and filled with potential. By embracing regenerative ocean farming, we can usher in a new era of environmental stewardship, economic prosperity, and global leadership in sustainable practices.
Let us seize this opportunity to mend our past oversights and chart a course towards a future where progress and environmental sustainability sail in unison towards a brighter, bluer horizon.
FOOD PART II - Underground Farms £1.5Bn
Beneath our feet lies a forgotten lattice, a vast expanse of history and potential that whispers the tales of an era long past. The United Kingdom, once the crucible of the industrial revolution, is perched atop an intricate network of over 150,000 disused coal mines, a testament to our rich industrial heritage. Yet, as we stand at the crossroads of innovation and tradition, these silent caverns and shafts offer us an unprecedented opportunity to redefine the future of agriculture and sustainability.
Imagine, if you will, a subterranean world thriving with verdant life, where crops flourish in abundance, unfettered by the adverse weather or the constraints of seasons. This is not a fanciful vision but a tangible possibility that beckons us to transform these dormant chasms into vibrant hubs of aeroponic and hydroponic farms. With an estimated 25,000km² of disused space beneath our feet, the potential to revolutionize our agricultural landscape is immense. By harnessing this underutilized resource, we could potentially yield tenfold the crops compared to the same expanse of surface land.
Consider the potential of just one 7m² shaft, capable of producing an astounding 80 tonnes of food annually. With an initial setup cost of approximately £30,000 per shaft, the proposition to convert 50,000 of these mines into flourishing farms entails a calculated investment of £1.5 billion. Yet, the return on this investment is not merely measured in monetary terms but in the sustainability, security, and sovereignty of our food supply.
The prospect of converting our coal mine legacy into a network of subterranean farms is not just an exercise in agricultural efficiency; it is a bold step towards environmental stewardship. These underground farms offer a controlled environment that can significantly reduce water usage, eliminate pesticide dependence, and curtail the carbon footprint associated with traditional farming methods.
The transformation of disused coal mines into aeroponic and hydroponic farms is a clarion call to embrace our industrial past and repurpose it for a sustainable future. It is an invitation to pioneer a movement that melds history with innovation, ensuring food security, enhancing biodiversity, and contributing to the ecological balance.
As we stand on the precipice of this agricultural renaissance, let us seize this moment to reimagine our relationship with the earth beneath us, to cultivate not just crops, but a legacy of sustainability, resilience, and hope for generations to come.