"Climate Crisis and Farming: A Key Focus at COP28"
The climate crisis poses a significant threat to global food production, with research indicating that one-third of the world's food supply is at risk. Paradoxically, food systems are also major contributors to climate change, with over a fifth of global carbon emissions attributed to greenhouse gases released by farming and land-use changes, such as deforestation and wetland conversion for agriculture. Despite these intertwined challenges, discussions on the vulnerabilities and impacts of food systems remain on the sidelines during the annual UN climate negotiations, often overshadowed by more traditional economic and geopolitical concerns.
The division of UN responsibilities further complicates the matter, with food issues falling under the jurisdiction of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The FAO has its own summit machinery, exemplified by the Food System Summit held in Rome in July. The dynamics of food, economics, and geopolitics differ considerably from those in climate talks, creating a divide that has, until now, hindered comprehensive discussions.
However, the forthcoming COP28, set to take place in Dubai from November 30 to December 13, promises to be different. For the first time, a dedicated "food day" will be part of the agenda, marking a shift towards elevating discussions on food, agriculture, and water systems within the climate debate. At least 22 major events during the COP28 fortnight will focus on these crucial topics, presided over by the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, a Food4Climate pavilion at ExpoCity will provide a dedicated platform for addressing these interconnected issues.
One of the key highlights of COP28 will be the FAO's presentation outlining the necessary changes in food systems to align with the globally agreed-upon goal of limiting temperature increases to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Beyond this threshold, the climate crisis's impacts on food systems are predicted to be catastrophic, potentially irreversible. This research is expected to emphasize the need to curtail the growth of animal farming for meat and dairy to meet emissions reduction targets for 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Historically, climate conferences have overlooked the role of farming as both a significant contributor to global climate change and a potential solution to the crisis, as well as the profound impact climate change has on farming communities worldwide. The introduction of comprehensive discussions linking food and climate at COP28 could mark a historic turning point.
To create lasting change, any action taken should extend beyond declarations and include financial support for adaptation and addressing loss and damage, especially directed towards smallholder farmers in the developing world. Furthermore, reforms to western farming subsidies should target methane emissions reductions. Edward Davey of the World Resources Institute emphasizes that substantial reductions in meat and dairy consumption are crucial commitments for wealthier nations like the US and EU. In contrast, for poorer nations, the focus should revolve more around food security, nutrition, adaptation, and resilience.
Sultan Al Jaber, the UAE's Minister for Advanced Technology, CEO of the national oil company Adnoc, and the designated COP28 president, recognizes the importance of accounting for emissions from all sectors, including agriculture and land-use changes. He emphasizes the need for a united approach against carbon emissions across the board.
While high-tech solutions might be tempting, food experts caution against overlooking the central issue of western diets and their environmental impact, particularly regarding methane emissions from livestock production and resource wastage.
Realistically, discussions at COP28 should address the inherent unsustainability of the current western diet, which is being exported to developing and middle-income countries. Tackling this issue is essential to ensure the success of global efforts to combat climate change and keep global heating in check. A more sustainable approach to farming and ensuring food access for those in need should be a top priority at COP28.
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