LEAF pays tribute to its founder, David Richardson OBE

David was a pioneering thought leader whose influence on British and global agriculture cannot be overstated. In the 1980s and 90s—long before sustainability became a widely recognised imperative—David was boldly championing the need for farming systems that worked in harmony with nature, protected the environment, and earned the trust of the public.

As a respected Norfolk farmer, writer, and broadcaster, David used his platform to challenge conventional thinking and advocate for change. He recognised early on that the future of farming relied not just on production and efficiency, but on transparency, responsibility, and public engagement. His visionary thinking led to the founding of LEAF in 1991.  He chaired LEAF for 10 years, and his role in promoting a new approach to managing the land was recognised in 2000 when he was made an OBE for services to integrated farming.

David’s influence extended far beyond policy or practice. He was a mentor, guide, and dear friend to many—most notably to Caroline Drummond, LEAF’s long-standing Chief Executive, who passed away in 2022. David was instrumental in shaping Caroline’s early leadership and remained a trusted confidant throughout her life. She often turned to him for wisdom, encouragement, and clarity, and their shared passion for farming and the environment formed the heart of LEAF’s values and direction.

David's leadership helped shift perceptions at a time when sustainability was still on the fringes of agricultural debate. His ability to connect with farmers, policy makers, scientists, and the public alike made him a unique and influential voice in the sector. He inspired a generation of farmers to think differently - balancing productivity with care for the land and a commitment to future generations.

Today, David’s legacy lives on powerfully through LEAF’s work and impact.

• LEAF Marque now operates in 52 countries covering Europe, America, Africa, Asia and New Zealand.   
• Most of the leading UK retailers have adopted LEAF Marque certification across their supply chains to advance their own sustainability commitments.
• Over the past two decades, Open Farm Sunday has welcomed more than 3 million visitors, creating powerful connections between the public and the people who grow their food.
• Our LEAF’s education programmes reach tens of thousands of young people every year, embedding food, farming, and environmental awareness into schools and helping to inspire the next generation.
• And through LEAF’s growing global reach, the principles of Integrated Farm Management are now being shared and adopted by farming communities worldwide.

Philip Wynn, Chairman of LEAF said:

“David’s foresight and values were truly ahead of their time. His unwavering belief in farming as a force for good laid the foundations for everything LEAF stands for today. His legacy lives on in our continued growth and in the thriving community of farmers, educators and changemakers who continue to build on his vision for a more sustainable, nature-based future.

“On behalf of the LEAF Board, team, members, and wider community, we send our heartfelt condolences to David’s family and friends. We are deeply grateful for his wisdom, courage, and enduring belief in farming as a force for good.”