Institute of Horticulture conference to tackle big issues of climate change and food security

Press Releasein Industry News

The Institute of Horticulture is to tackle some of the most challenging issues facing the industry at its annual conference in September. Entitled 'No Plants, No Planet: Horticulture - making a world of difference', the conference plays host to an impressive array of speakers who will explore how the industry is responding to the challenges of climate change, ensuring food security, changes in land use and safeguarding bio diversity.

The conference is to be held at Writtle College, Chelmsford, Essex on September 10/11. As well as members of the Institute, the conference is open to anyone who has an interest in these issues, from policy makers to training providers, local authority staff to voluntary sector professionals, researchers and suppliers.

Speakers include: Rosie Boycott, Chair of London Food; Dr David Barling of the Centre for Food Policy, University of London; Tim Briercliffe, Chair of Greening the UK Campaign; Dr Simon Thornton-Wood, RHS; Dr Ross Cameron, University of Reading: Dr Derek Stewart Head of the Plant Products and Food Programme, SCRI; Elaine Hughes, London Wildlife Trust; organic grower Iain Tolhurst and many more.

There will also be the opportunity, on September 12, for delegates to hear about and visit the 2012 London Olympic Park and see the impact horticulture is having on this high-profile site.

President of the Institute of Horticulture, Dr Heather Barrett-Mold, said: "Horticulture is at the heart of so many of the big issues we face today. We need to make sure that policy makers in Government, and other key stakeholders, understand the important role horticulturists have in ensuring we meet the challenges of climate change and ensuring food security, whilst maintaining an environment that is both safe and creates the well-being that is so important to the health of the nation."

The Institute has been working to the theme of 'Uniting a growing profession' and this conference will provide the opportunity for a diverse range of speakers and delegates to explore what unites them in tackling the great issues of the day.

Full details of the conference can be obtained by emailing ioh@horticulture.org.uk. or by calling the Institute on 01992 707025

The cost of attending the conference has been kept to a minimum and there's a substantial 'early bird' discount for those booking before July 15.

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