Our Services

Agriculture and Forestry

The Challenge

Across the world there is increasing demand for food, timber and other commodities. However, there is also a growing awareness of the need to care for the planet and the broader ecosystem services delivered by farming and forestry. It is widely acknowledged that sustainable and regenerative approaches and practices are critical for future production and long-term resilience, areas where Cumulus Consultants specialise.

Our Expertise

Cumulus Consultants has expertise in sustainable farming and forestry and practical knowledge and understanding of all key farming and forestry systems. We work on the interface between farming, forestry and the environment, and agriculture and forestry policy and economics. We are familiar with agroecological, regenerative and natural capital approaches, and have access to the latest data and intelligence.

Our Agriculture and Forestry services

Our key agriculture and forestry services include economic analysis and modelling for the regenerative farming transition, and policy research for sustainable farming and forestry – please see the service descriptions below:

Economic analysis and modelling for the regenerative farming transition

Cumulus undertakes economic analysis and modelling for the regenerative farming transition, working with governments, supply chains, membership organisations, NGOs, banks and investors. We map out how farm businesses in different sectors can transition to more sustainable systems and practices, drawing on the latest evidence and engagement with sector specialists. We undertake economic analysis and modelling to understand the impacts on gross margins, overheads and capital requirements on different types of farm/transition. The financial and other support required to achieve this transition is then assessed. We can also model the environmental and emissions impacts and help develop schemes and funding if desired (see Agri-Environment and Green Finance).

Policy research for sustainable farming and forestry

Cumulus provides policy research and analysis for sustainable farming and forestry. We work with government bodies, NGOs, industry bodies and individual businesses. Our work includes: geographically focused farming and forestry studies (e.g. Cotswolds farming, forestry and land management); thematic research relating to topics of interest (e.g. agroforestry, wool); and impact assessments linked to specific policies or schemes (e.g. SFI), sectors and practices, or environmental receptors (e.g. water quality). We are a flexible multi-disciplinary team experienced in undertaking bespoke research for clients.

“This research has helped us develop our understanding of grazing in the uplands and its central role in securing the future of some of our best loved wildlife and habitats.”

RSPB

“Informative and thought provoking … the feedback has been excellent.”

Cotswolds Conservation Board

“I’m really pleased with how this has turned out. It will be a very useful advocacy tool for us – not just in Scotland, but in other parts of the UK as well. I would highly recommend Cumulus, and Lockett Agri Environment, for future work. This team has a wealth of experience, is proactive, easy to work with and delivers a very high standard of reporting that fits with the requirements of government and other public agencies that we are trying to influence.”