At the 2024 World AgriFood Innovation Conference, agricultural experts emphasized the necessity of an innovation-driven green transition in the agri-food sector to combat climate change. They highlighted the adverse effects of global warming on food production, advocating for research and technological innovations to mitigate these impacts. China was noted for its commitment to improving food production and reducing poverty, showcasing its role in global food security efforts.
In light of escalating climate challenges, a global assembly of agricultural specialists has advocated for an innovation-led transition towards a greener agri-food system. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions and alleviate the adverse effects of climate change on agricultural productivity. Despite certain regions experiencing initial benefits from warmer temperatures, significant uncertainties related to global warming threaten agricultural stability, particularly across Asia, Africa, and South America. These insights were shared during the 2024 World AgriFood Innovation Conference, held in Beijing and organized by China Agricultural University. Sun Qixin, the president of the university, indicated that mainstream models predict an alarming 6% to 8% reduction in food output for every 1°C rise in global temperatures, unless innovative technologies are leveraged to counteract these impacts. He remarked, “However, the impact of a warmer climate is not uniform across the globe.” While some areas may enjoy improved agricultural conditions due to a warmer climate, the increased occurrence of severe weather events is causing widespread disruption. For instance, Brazil and China’s provinces of Henan and Shandong have recently experienced devastating crop failures due to unprecedented droughts and prolonged heat waves. To achieve a successful green transition, which entails significant reductions in agricultural inputs such as fertilizers, experts stress the importance of investing in research and technological advancements. Sun stated, “We must proceed in this direction despite the challenges.” The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports that the agri-food sector is responsible for approximately one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, covering the entire food production cycle from cultivation to consumption. Fu Wenge, a professor at China Agricultural University, noted that facilitating green transitions is not always contingent on groundbreaking innovations; often, small, cost-effective changes in management practices can produce substantial benefits. He referenced the university’s Science and Technology Backyard project, which connects students with smallholder farmers, promoting high-yield varieties and sustainable practices in rural communities. Ismahane Elouafi, the executive managing director of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), asserted that achieving a green transition necessitates comprehensive innovations across various sectors and requires collaborative models among nations. She expressed, “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.” Furthermore, experts highlighted the urgent need for increased awareness of producing food while minimizing carbon footprints, as well as prioritizing environmental concerns. Patrick Caron, vice-chair of the CGIAR system board, reflected on historical trends, saying, “However, at the moment, we are looking at the increase of production with a different angle,” emphasizing the need for environmentally responsible practices. As World Food Day was recognized on October 16, stakeholders emphasized China as a beacon of hope amidst growing global food insecurity, noting its ambitious target to elevate annual food production capacity to around 700 million metric tons by 2030, up from 695 million tons in 2023. Elouafi mentioned, “I think China really is a bright spot in the global picture, and not only in increasing productivity in a very smart way, but also in reducing poverty and hunger.” The Foreign Ministry of China underscored the country’s commitment to food security, highlighting its substantial contributions to global food production and its proactive efforts in assisting nations facing food crises and sharing agricultural expertise. “China has provided more funding and experts and undertaken more projects than any other developing country under the framework of the Food and Agriculture Organization’s South-South Cooperation Programme,” said spokeswoman Mao Ning, asserting China’s willingness to enhance international cooperation towards achieving a hunger-free world.
The article discusses the urgent need for a green transition in the agri-food sector, driven by innovation to combat the effects of climate change. It highlights insights from experts during a significant conference, examining the challenges posed by global warming that disrupt agricultural productivity across various continents. The experts elaborate on the necessity of technological advancements and collaborative efforts to mitigate climate impacts while increasing food production sustainably. The article also underscores China’s pivotal role in addressing global food security by leveraging innovations and enhancing rural incomes.
In conclusion, the global call for an innovation-driven green transition in the agri-food sector reflects the urgent need to address climate change challenges. The insights shared by experts at the WAFI Conference underscore the critical role of technology and policy reforms in ensuring sustainable food production practices. Furthermore, China’s proactive measures in bolstering agricultural productivity serve as an exemplar for other nations striving to enhance food security and reduce poverty worldwide.
Original Source: news.cau.edu.cn
