Ben Sharples
Michelmores
Ben Sharples heads up Michelmores’ natural capital practice and is a distinguished expert in agricultural law. Besides handling contentious matters in this field, he advises clients on carbon sequestration, payments for environmental services, and sustainability issues. His recent work includes advising the Forestry Commission on evaluating the environmental benefits of halting traditional agricultural activities on a site near the River Stour to prevent leaching.
Alongside his legal practice, Sharples is a pioneer in natural capital policy. He authored a practical guide to payments for environmental services, published by Law Brief Publishing, which serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the diverse opportunities available in the environmental services market.
In 2024, Sharples delivered a full day of lectures on natural capital issues to an audience of 240, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in this crucial area.