In 2012, when LEAF established its monitoring and evaluation programme, we started providing information about our impacts, growth and the economic, environmental and social benefits of achieving and maintaining LEAF Marque certification. We continue to build on that work which helps provide the scientific foundation for the transparent and impartial evaluation of LEAF’s effectiveness in delivering our mission and vision.
Our Global Impacts Report celebrates the achievements of LEAF Marque certified businesses in delivering more sustainable food and farming. Inspiring and enabling everyone we work with about sustainability is one thing, but this needs to be demonstrated through monitoring and evaluation.
Assessing the effectiveness of LEAF Marque certification and gaining an insight into how it is advancing environmental change, is crucial for the continuous improvement of our standards. That is why LEAF invests in independent evaluation. The findings of these studies provide vital insights which we use to revise and adapt the LEAF Marque assurance system. Find out more about our latest independent evaluation into LEAF Marque.
Find out more about previous independent work looking at the effect and impact of LEAF Marque in the delivery of more sustainable farming. The study was commissioned by LEAF and carried out by the Countryside and Community Research Institute 2017.
The LEAF Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) mission is to increase the understanding of the environmental, social, political, organisational and other impact of LEAF’s activities. The continuous M&E programme augments the scientific basis, benefits, value and the impartiality, transparency and inclusiveness of LEAF’s activities. A Public System Report on Impact can be found below.
We have summarised our Monitoring and Evaluation programme here at LEAF into a useful overview taking a high level look at what our programme includes.
Within the context of Integrated Farm Management, the LEAF Marque system aims to deliver positive action for climate, nature, economy and society transforming farming and food at an increasingly global level through:
- Resilient and diverse businesses
- Increased implementation of regenerative practices
- Improved positive action for climate change through reduced carbon footprints
- Improved soil management to enhance soil quality and soil health
- Improved implementation of effective IPM solutions for crop health and protection
- Circular approach to resource use and waste management
- Optimised and integrated livestock health, performance, and environmental impact
- Improved energy use and efficiency
- Improved management of water use and water quality
- Enriched diversity of native habitats and species
To find out how we are delivering against these goals, see LEAF’s Global Impacts Report.
LEAF and LEAF Marque conduct a range of stakeholder consultations to support our continuous improvement and we will publicise these opportunities. If you have questions, feedback or complaints about the LEAF Marque Monitoring and Evaluation system, including the Scope and Boundaries of the M&E System, Stakeholder Consultation process, or our Intended Impacts and Indicators, please contact us.