COP29 Highlights: Focus on Sustainable Food Systems and Global Hunger

26

Addressing the Food Security Crisis

At the ongoing COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, global leaders, environmental experts, and activists are shining a spotlight on food security, sustainability, and agriculture as central themes in combating climate change. During the second week of discussions, the summit has underscored the interconnected challenges of feeding a growing population while reducing the environmental impact of food production.

Delegates have emphasised the urgency of transitioning to sustainable food systems to address the escalating global hunger crisis, exacerbated by rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and disrupted agricultural yields. Policymakers are advocating for robust international frameworks that promote equitable food distribution, investment in climate-resilient crops, and support for smallholder farmers who are disproportionately affected by climate change.

Tackling Food Waste and Climate Resilience

Another pressing issue raised at COP29 is the staggering amount of global food waste, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Experts at the summit are calling for the implementation of efficient food storage, processing, and distribution systems to reduce waste and improve resource management.

Innovative solutions, including the use of AI-driven agricultural technologies and regenerative farming practices, are gaining traction as potential game-changers. These approaches aim to enhance soil health, restore biodiversity, and reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Additionally, the role of plant-based diets and alternative protein sources was discussed as a means to reduce the environmental footprint of food production.

The summit has also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration to ensure that sustainability efforts in agriculture align with broader climate goals. Countries have been urged to integrate food security into their climate action plans, prioritising strategies that mitigate emissions while ensuring access to affordable and nutritious food for all.

As the summit progresses, the discussions at COP29 serve as a clarion call for immediate and coordinated action to build a sustainable, resilient, and equitable global food system, addressing not only the current climate crisis but also securing the future of food for generations to come.