A new analysis by the nature-focused investment fund Rebalance Earth reveals that the majority of the United Kingdom’s essential food supply is produced in areas classified as having moderate to very high risk of drought. The report identifies significant geographic concentration of critical crops in water-stressed regions across England.
According to the analysis, approximately 81% of England’s fresh produce originates from areas already experiencing water stress. Among staple crops, three-quarters of wheat production (77%) and barley production (75%) occurs in drought-risk zones, alongside 74% of oilseed rape, 70% of sugar beet, and 67% of potatoes. The report further notes that about a quarter of the country’s staple crop production takes place in areas facing acute drought risk, including 30% of wheat and barley combined, 28% of oilseed rape, 27% of fresh produce, and 21% of potatoes.
Traditionally productive agricultural regions such as East Anglia and Kent are among the areas facing the greatest pressure from drought conditions. Recent years have brought prolonged dry weather to these historically important farming zones. The final 2026 harvest report from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board described this year’s cereals harvest in England and Wales as disappointing, with wheat, spring barley, and oat volumes falling below historical averages.
Farm operators in affected regions report significant challenges. One of England’s largest commercial farms, the Elveden estate in Suffolk, has experienced drought conditions in three out of every five years. The operation, which produces approximately 100,000 tonnes of food annually, emphasizes the importance of efficient water resource management for continued agricultural productivity in suitable growing areas.
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