Biodiversity and Climate Action in Agriculture and Food Systems: Opportunities for Building Synergies

The climate and biodiversity crises are inextricably linked – and are even more intertwined in the context of agriculture and food systems. The global food system is not only a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, but also the leading driver of biodiversity loss. Food systems are also increasingly vulnerable to climate change impacts.

The solution to both crises, however, also lies in the agriculture and food systems. But policy processes for achieving climate and biodiversity goals have historically operated in silos. To effectively address climate change and biodiversity loss, leaders must capitalize on food systems as an entry point for action.

Considering this context, Climate Focus developed a policy paper – “Biodiversity and Climate Action in Agriculture and Food Systems: Opportunities for Building Synergies” – that explores connections between food, climate, and biodiversity, explains how agriculture and food systems are integrated into international biodiversity and climate policy processes, and outlines opportunities for aligning these efforts.

Ultimately, the paper emphasizes the need for integrated, systemic solutions that tackle both the climate and biodiversity crises through more sustainable and resilient food systems, including:

• Shifting to nature-positive food production.
• Ensuring the sustainable governance of ecosystem services in both land and seascapes.
• Restoring terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems.
• Reducing food loss and waste.
• Shifting to sustainable and healthy diets.
• Fostering inclusive and equitable food systems governance.

Read the full report here.