LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) has launched the latest version of its LEAF Marque Standard version 17.0, representing a significant evolution in the assurance of more sustainable farming. The update reaffirms LEAF’s commitment to providing a globally relevant and practical framework to build more resilient farming and food systems.
The comprehensive review was undertaken with extensive stakeholder engagement from leading farmers, academics, food retailers and producers world-wide. This was carried out alongside public consultations and overseen by the LEAF Marque Technical Advisory Committee. The Standard has been developed as a pragmatic model that can be applied on a wide range of farming systems globally in the context of a commercial operating model.
Over the past three years, LEAF Marque has expanded rapidly, from 922 certified businesses in 2022 (64% based in the UK) to 3,100 certified businesses across 55 countries today, including more than 500 Producer Groups. In response to the continued growth of LEAF Marque, the roll-out of version 17.0 is backed by a six-figure investment in new IT. The enhanced infrastructure will improve efficiencies, data collection and reporting, and governance oversight for both farmers and supply chain owners in partnership with Dutch Agri-IT specialists, Agriplace.
Key updates include:
- Enhanced environmental focus – new requirements address vital sustainability challenges in agriculture including habitat area (5% minimum), soil health, regenerative farming, water management, GHG emissions, peat, livestock, and food waste.
- Global relevance – the updated Standard broadens its scope to better support diverse farming systems and geographies, including LEAF Marque’s growing network of international producers, currently located across 55 countries.
- Unique versatility – version 17.0 of the Standard incorporates Core and Advanced controls which enables greater flexibility for application through supply chains aligned to specific areas of environmental focus. This includes tailoring to reflect localised sustainability needs across the globe.
- Integration with the LEAF Sustainable Farming Review (LSFR) – the new version integrates more closely with the LSFR, offering a robust framework for continuous improvement on sustainability goals and ensuring producers are well-prepared for their LEAF Marque audit.
These updates reflect LEAF’s continued commitment to supporting farmers in delivering more sustainable farming while maintaining productivity and profitability.
Clare Mike, Director, LEAF Marque & International Development at LEAF, stated: “Since LEAF Marque launched in 2002, we’ve continued to invest and collaborate across the industry to deliver high standards of environmental assurance. As we expand internationally version 17.0 provides a robust, pragmatic and independent environmental framework that can be applied across diverse geographies and production systems.
“The new Standard is clearer, more adaptable and firmly grounded in real-world application that integrates rigour, insight and measurable progress in response to increasing demands for transparency, accountability, and climate action. We’re excited to see the continued adoption of the LEAF Marque Standard by leading retailers, including Tesco, Waitrose, Aldi, and Lidl, and expansion into new sectors beyond fresh produce in line with our five-year strategy.”
David Webster, CEO of LEAF said: “Given the ongoing pressures on farming to adapt to rapidly changing environmental conditions and new legislation, it is imperative that we provide assurance frameworks that are practical and serve to align with the interests of both the natural environment and the market. Version 17.0 of LEAF Marque marks a significant step forward for LEAF as we continue to invest in our systems and processes to support the interests of LEAF members globally.”
The LEAF Marque Standard version 17.0 is available for download now and comes into effect on the 5 May 2026. To access the updated LEAF Marque Standard version 17.0, a summary of changes, and supporting guidance materials, visit www.leaf.eco/leafmarque/standard
LEAF is committed to supporting growers throughout this transition with a suite of webinar sessions where the LEAF team will be available to answer questions, support farmers’ progress through LEAF Marque and listen to feedback.
Click here to register.
