This is the first part of an in-depth exploration into the world of food systems, based on conversations held during significant COP events. We delve into how agroecology offers solutions and the crucial role it plays in addressing biodiversity loss, climate change, and land degradation. As world leaders and food system actors gather, this fall becomes a pivotal time for food systems governance.
Discover the Power of Agroecology in Food Systems
Protecting Biodiversity and Mitigating Climate Change
Food systems generate an astonishing $20 trillion in social, human, and environmental costs annually, dwarfing their $9 trillion market value. According to the WWF's Living Planet report, they contribute one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, cause 90 percent of deforestation, and are responsible for 70 percent of freshwater biodiversity loss. Industrial food systems have trapped us in a destructive loop, driving environmental degradation and climate disasters. However, by transitioning to nature-positive food systems, we can regenerate ecosystems and deliver sustainable diets for all.A holistic approach to food systems is largely missing in countries' NDCs and NBSAPs. Although 97 percent of 64 countries' NBSAPs included at least one measure related to food system transformation, food loss and farmer organization issues were barely addressed. Similarly, in NDCs, while 90 percent included at least one agriculture and food systems keyword, only 12 percent included all seven key categories.Aligning International Agendas for Greater Impact
The international biodiversity and climate agendas, along with country-level NBSAPs and NDCs, should be better aligned. Efforts to make food systems more nature positive, through agroecology, must be integral to this. A recent event in Cali during COP16 focused on "Harvesting Solutions: Aligning NBSAPs and NDCs for Climate and Biodiversity Benefits." This highlights the need for coordinated action.With three COPs in one year, 2024 presents an opportunity to better align the Rio Conventions. Agriculture ministers need tools to persuade counterparts in foreign affairs and environment ministries of the importance of addressing food systems and biodiversity within climate mitigation strategies.Agroecology: A Pathway to Multiple Goals
Reducing the use of harmful and synthetic inputs and fostering farmer-led seed systems are excellent entry points for countries to introduce ecological and agroecological practices. Developing national agroecology strategies helps governments roll out coherent and scalable interventions that support biodiversity and climate action. For example, Kenya is set to approve a National Agroecology Strategy that can be inserted into its NDC.WWF, Biovision, and other organizations launched a Guidance Tool at COP16, mapping out 14 agroecological intervention areas to assist governments in this process.Overcoming Financial Constraints
Inadequate financial support is impeding the scaling up of agroecology. However, money is available. Anna Lappé called for redirecting $7 trillion of subsidies aimed at monoculture crops towards nature-positive food systems. Agroecology can enable governments to combine NBSAP and NDC goals, generating cost savings and helping finance ministries fund these interventions.Indigenous Knowledge and Local Communities
Indigenous people and local communities have extensive traditional knowledge and a long history of protecting the planet. They have much to teach about addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity. They must be actively engaged in the drafting and implementation of NDCs and NBSAPs, with equity and human rights at the core.Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration for Success
Multi-stakeholder collaboration is crucial in tackling interconnected challenges around climate, biodiversity, and food. As Deissy Martinez-Baron concluded, success depends on the partnerships we build today, the shared knowledge, and the coordinated action we take.Articles like this are made possible through the generosity of Food Tank members. Become a member today by clicking here and be part of our growing movement.