The last few weeks have brought unimaginable changes to our lives as the Covid-19 crisis has deepened, and spread around the world. That’s certainly been the experience of the team that brings you Natural Products Global, and our company Diversified Communications UK (based in Brighton, UK).
We are all working from home currently, following the introduction last week of stringent new restrictions on personal movements and business activity in the UK. As well as being on a crash course in learning how to operate an entire business remotely, we’re having to grapple with dramatic impacts on our personal and family lives (team members with school age children are having to double up as teachers, others are trying their best to shield vulnerable family members and friends).
Although our working environment has changed on NPG, our commitment to bringing you the latest news and developments from the global natural and organic industry continues.
The long view
Inevitably, the effects of the coronavirus on our own industry have been making the headlines in recent days and will continue to do so. But we also want to keep a focus on the long view, and the hugely important role that the organic, natural and eco industries play in the lives of millions of people around the world – now, and in the future.
In the coming months it’s so important that we unite behind the values and ideas that bind our community together. Clearly, the immediate priority is navigating the immensely challenging and unprecedented situation we find ourselves in. But the need, and demand, for sustainably and ethically produced food and healthcare products is as real and present as ever.
We have proven that we are resilient as an industry, and as a movement. From the millions of organic growers and producers around the world to the thousands of processors and manufacturers they supply; to the global network of natural products wholesalers, brands and retailers who complete the supply chain – we have so much to give.
Connect, collaborate
At NPG we want to play our full part in helping the industry chart a course through the present crisis, and strengthen the contribution we can make in the future. So please share your stories with us, tell our readers around the world how your company or organisation is making a difference, and use our channels to connect with customers and collaborators.
There has been much comment in recent days about the lessons to be learned from coronavirus pandemic, and the way it is making us re-evaluate what is most important to us in our lives. The tone of social media is suddenly very different – in short, it’s a far nicer place to be. Painted rainbows in windows and on school gates remind us to be kind to one another.
It’s no coincidence that the four pillars of organic farming – Health, Ecology, Fairness, and Care – enshrine some of the values that now feel so important. It is a kinder, more caring way to farm, to eat and to live. The health food trade is rooted in similar traditions.
Very difficult weeks and months lay ahead. But let’s all stay strong – and be kind to ourselves, and others.
Jim, Rosie, Jane, Dom, Vicki, Jenni
Photo: Rainbow paintings, St Barnabas school, Tunbridge Wells