A global panel of agricultural experts is advocating for an innovation-driven green transition in the agri-food sector, addressing the impact of climate change on food production. Discussions at the 2024 World Agri-Food Innovation Conference highlighted the necessity of reducing agricultural inputs and investing in technological innovation. Experts emphasized collaborative approaches and sustainable practices to enhance food security while minimizing the environmental footprint.
A recent global panel of agricultural experts has advocated for an innovation-driven green transition in the agri-food system, emphasizing the need to address carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture. The discussion took place during the 2024 World Agri-Food Innovation Conference in Beijing, organized by China Agricultural University. Sun Qixin, the president of China Agricultural University and an academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, shared insights on the consequences of rising global temperatures on food production, noting that models project a reduction of 6 to 8 percent in food output for every 1°C increase unless technological advancements are integrated to counteract these effects. He remarked, “However, the impact of a warmer climate is not uniform across the globe.” Despite the fact that some regions may experience short-term benefits from warmer weather, the overall unpredictability associated with climate change poses significant threats to agriculture in Asia, Africa, and South America, according to experts. They emphasized the necessity of a considerable reduction in agricultural inputs, particularly fertilizers, as part of the green transition, alongside investments in research and technology to prevent decreased agricultural yield. Fu Wenge, a professor at China Agricultural University, pointed out that transformative innovations do not always require groundbreaking science; rather, smaller, cost-effective management reforms can drive substantial progress. He shared an initiative from the university known as the ‘Science and Technology Backyard’ project, allowing students to engage with smallholder farmers to promote sustainable practices and high-yield crop varieties. Ismahane Elouafi, the executive managing director of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), indicated that achieving a green transition calls for comprehensive innovations that encompass technology, policy, and strategic collaboration among countries. She stated, “The impact of climate change is multiplying every day, and the only way forward for us is to adopt innovation in its broad sense to really transform the agriculture system.” The panelists also stressed the importance of producing food in a manner that minimizes the environmental footprint and expressed concerns about larger systemic issues, including food security. Patrick Caron, vice-chair of the CGIAR system board, highlighted the need for a revised perspective on food production that prioritizes ecological sustainability. In light of the ongoing global food insecurity crisis, attention has turned to China’s ambitious goal to enhance its annual food production capacity to approximately 700 million metric tons by 2030. Elouafi lauded China as a pivotal player in increasing agricultural productivity while simultaneously addressing poverty and hunger through innovative approaches.
The conference highlighted the urgent need for the agri-food sector to transition towards sustainability in light of climate change, which has profound implications for global food production. The experts at the conference underscored that while certain regions may experience initial benefits due to warmer temperatures, the overall uncertainties and extreme weather events brought about by climate change are detrimental to agriculture worldwide. As agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the proposed green transition is expected to involve substantial technological advancements and policy reforms that align with environmental conservation goals.
In conclusion, the call for a green transition in the agri-food sector emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to counteract the adverse effects of climate change on food production. Experts like Sun Qixin and Ismahane Elouafi advocate for a comprehensive approach that includes scientific advancements, practical management reforms, and enhanced international cooperation. As countries, particularly China, aim to boost food production sustainably, it is essential to prioritize environmental health and make strides toward securing global food security for future generations.
Original Source: global.chinadaily.com.cn
