The Emotional Stakes for Our Food Future at COP29

Focusing on Food Systems at COP29

As the countdown to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan continues, climate finance remains a key focus. Yet, food system advocates are determined to keep food and agriculture at the forefront. Building on the momentum from COP28 in Dubai, they aim to make significant strides.

Last year, COP28 made history with a dedicated day for food. This was underscored by the groundbreaking “Emirates Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action,” signed by over 150 countries. The Sharm-El Sheikh Support Programme, a three-year initiative for farmers and food producers, was also launched.

The COP29 Presidency, led by H.E. Mukhtar Babayev, announced that Food, Agriculture, and Water Day will be on November 19th. This highlights the ongoing commitment to sustainable and resilient food systems on a global scale.

“Climate change is already lowering crop yields, contributing to water shortages, and limiting our ability to feed a growing planet,” Babayev remarked. The thematic day for food at COP29 demonstrates the importance placed on agriculture and advancing sustainable practices.

Another story you will enjoy : Why a Young Music Icon's Bold Move is Shaking the Climate Debate to Its Core

Key Initiatives at COP29

One of the 14 initiatives at COP29 is the Harmoniya 4 Climate Resilience Initiative. This project, a collaboration between the COP29 Presidency and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), aims to unite diverse networks and promote collaboration in the agriculture, food, and water sectors.

Another significant item on the agenda is the Baku Dialogue on Water and Climate. This dialogue will bring together governments, UN organizations, academia, and the private sector to work on water-related climate change adaptation. The goal is to enhance action on the climate-water nexus.

In addition to these initiatives, thematic days such as Science, Technology, and Innovation Day and Human Capital, Children and Youth, Health and Education Day will address the overlap between agri-food and other sectors. These days will provide critical opportunities for discussion.

The agenda will also include:

• Energy, Peace, Relief, and Recovery Day on November 15th
• Science, Technology, and Innovation Day on November 16th
• Human Capital, Children and Youth, Health and Education Day on November 18th

Scaling Up Climate Action

On June 26th, a high-level meeting convened by the UN World Food Programme (WFP), FAO, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) called for urgent scaling up of climate action. The focus was on adapting and building resilience in agri-food systems in fragile and conflict-affected settings.

Senior Adviser to the Azerbaijan COP29 Presidency, Ambassador Elshad Iskandarov, emphasized that food security, water scarcity, and safe access to land will be key discussion points at COP29. These areas are crucial for ensuring climate-resilient agriculture in fragile settings.

Another story you will enjoy : Unveiling the Hidden Culprit: How Climate Change Amplifies Deadly Weather, Reports Warn

Azerbaijan, a recent FAST Partnership Board Member and co-chair, presents a strategic opportunity to accelerate progress in allocating climate finance towards the agri-food sector. This aligns with the broader climate finance framework set to replace the original $100 billion annual commitment.

The FAST partnership, established at COP27, focuses on improving the quality and quantity of climate finance for agri-food systems, benefiting smallholder farmers, women, youth, and Indigenous Peoples. This partnership is crucial for achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.

The Role of Food Systems in Climate Action

The COP29 Presidency is advocating for countries to include food systems in their climate planning processes. “Many countries pledged to include food systems in their National Adaptation Plans last year,” Babayev noted. This integration is essential for protecting farmers and addressing agriculture’s role in climate change.

This year’s green zone will feature an Action on Food Hub, merging several pavilions to represent the entire food systems community. This hub will enhance collaboration and provide opportunities for engagement with international climate negotiations.

The Action on Food hub will create an inclusive space for dialogue and partnerships among stakeholders from across the food system. It will focus on elevating the voices of marginalized communities and promoting sustainable, just, and resilient food systems for all.

Building on the momentum from COP28, COP29 will feature numerous food systems side events. These events aim to accelerate implementation and consolidate high-level political commitment to transforming food systems and addressing the climate crisis.

Another story you will enjoy : Why Top Companies Are Secretly Shifting Their Climate Change Strategy: Unveiling the New Business Case for Action