“There may be differing views on exactly when the tide will turn on our oil and carbon reserve, but many analysts predict that it is likely to happen before 2010.� From the perspective of climate change, this is not a moment too soon.� Although reserves will ensure reasonable availability for many decades, oil prices are likely to rise sharply, completely changing the dynamics of cost effectiveness in transport, food production, housing and alternative energy sources.

A new and irresistible driver will then, over the next few years, force change in the way we live, farm, and buy our food.� Whilst many of us have anticipated these changes, it has been the debate over environmental care, closer connection between citizens and the land, and animal welfare that has raised awareness of the need to change both our methods of production and the means by which we process and distribute our food.� In the future, however, what has been ‘nice to have’ will become imperative.

The Soil Association’s role, working with many others, is to anticipate and prepare for these changes for the benefit of our farmers and growers, food networks and society.� This conference is an opportunity to take a big picture look at what the surprisingly near future will bring and to discuss strategies that will allow us to move confidently forward into a world of post peak oil.”

Source - “Certification News – Soil Association Certification Ltd”

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