Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs - GOV.UK We are the UK government department responsible for safeguarding our natural environment, supporting our world-leading food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy. Our broad remit means we play a major role in people’s day-to-day life, from the food we eat, and the air we breathe, to the water we drink. Defra is a ministerial department, supported by 33 agencies and public bodies .