LEAF commissions evaluations that focus mainly on meeting member needs and are carried out by independent researchers whose work meets
professional standards. These studies provide a vital tool which allows us to assess the effectiveness of our work and be certain that it is advancing environmental change.
The provision of robust, transparent and independent evaluation to support the claims we make about the benefits and impact of LEAF Marque certification, are a vital part of our continual improvement. That is why we invest in monitoring and evaluation. We regularly commission independent impact evaluations that provide vital insights into the impact of our work and how we need to continually respond, improve and adapt. Research guides our way forward.
This latest evaluation study was carried out by Mike Read Associates (MRA) from November 2020 to March 2021. The objective of the study was to evaluate how LEAF Marque supports the ‘enabling environment’ for LEAF’s broader work, and forms a key part of our new 10-year strategy implementation. Methodology included semi-structured interviews with farmers, suppliers, retailers, brands, government agencies, consultants and members of the farming media. Interviews with LEAF staff and ISEAL members, literature review and a workshop with LEAF staff. The work built on previous independent studies carried out in 2010 and 2017 by the Countryside and Community Research Institute.
Grow recognition of the LEAF Marque logo & what it means
Grow carbon reduction offer
Grow market opportunities
Grow benchmarking with other standards
Grow the LEAF Sustainable Farming Review offer
Grow harmonised metrics
Grow reach - sector, region, country
“LEAF welcomes the outcomes of this evaluation, which confirm our belief that LEAF Marque certification goes beyond just creating market opportunities, but also underpins LEAF’s overall strategic objectives of delivering and promoting more sustainable farming and food through ‘beyond certification’ activities. The findings indicate that every aspect of LEAF’s work is supported, in one or more ways, by the existence of LEAF Marque, and the credibility, tools and income that it provides."
Read LEAF’s full response and take a look at our summary document here.
Another independent study was carried out by the Countryside and Community Research Institute (CCRI). It set out to look at the impact and added value to farmers of LEAF Marque certification.
The study evaluated economic, environmental and social outcomes of the LEAF Marque assurance system for farmers. The findings are below:
Here are links to the reports and supplementary documents:
Highlights document | Report Summary | Full Report | LEAF Response
Your Feedback
If you have questions, feedback or suggestions about the LEAF Marque Monitoring and Evaluation processes, including our Independent Evaluation process, please email [email protected].