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The world’s food systems are responsible for more than one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, and 70% of freshwater consumption. Considering this, Mariam Almheiri, UAE Minister for Climate Change and Environment and COP28 Food Systems Lead, has called on governments to integrate food systems and agriculture into national climate agendas. The minister urged action to scale up food and agriculture innovation to drive both development and climate action.

“The COP28 Presidency’s commitment to prioritizing food systems demonstrates a dedication to address pressing global challenges. By mobilizing national leadership, engaging non-state actors, scaling innovation, and securing financing, COP28 aims to drive transformative change to secure a sustainable future for all,” said Almeirhi. 

COP28 launched the Food Systems and Agriculture Agenda, part of its ambitious action plan aimed at keeping 1.5C within reach, and called on governments to sign the first-ever Leaders Declaration on Food Systems, Agriculture and Climate Action at the Food Systems Summit in Rome to scaling up solutions while focusing investment and advancing partnerships on transformative ideas.

Almeirhi said advancements in traditional agricultural practices play a major role in responding to climate change and upgrading food systems. Scaling up promising and appropriate technologies, techniques, and innovations can help all global food system actors mitigate and adapt to growing threats from rising temperatures and climate shocks.

The COP28 will bring together businesses, farmer and production organizations, and other non-state actors to drive progress across production, consumption, food loss, and waste. 

A flagship initiative was also announced to promote the widespread adoption of regenerative agriculture in large food landscapes underpinned by procurement and investment commitments. The initiative will be co-chaired with the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), and Boston Consulting Group (BCG).