Assessing COP29 Food Pledges: Will Progress Follow COP28’s Promises?

World leaders convene at COP29 in Azerbaijan, following COP28’s significant agreements on integrating food systems into climate strategies. While 160 nations made pledges to reduce food-related emissions, progress has been slow, with only 40 countries on track for revised national climate plans. The urgency for dietary shifts, particularly in the Global North, has been highlighted as critical to achieving climate targets. Coalitions like the Alliance of Champions are fostering reform to enhance food systems without compromising the environment.

This week, global leaders converge in Baku, Azerbaijan for the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP29, following last year’s notable strides at COP28. This prior conference inaugurated discussions on greenhouse gas emissions in food sectors, with over 100 nations committing to reforms by 2025. Food systems account for one third of global emissions, predominantly from meat production, especially beef. Despite this urgency, many nations making pledges have yet to demonstrate substantial progress. At COP28, 160 countries endorsed the UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, emphasizing the integration of agricultural and food system reforms into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This marked a pivotal moment as these nations encompass 70 percent of world farmers and contribute to 80 percent of agricultural emissions. However, recent estimates suggest that only about 40 countries are making progress towards updated NDCs ahead of COP30. Edward Davey, a senior advisor at the World Resources Institute, recognizes the progress made, while simultaneously expressing concern over the lack of action from 120 nations. The United Kingdom is one nation poised to present a revised NDC, as it has been underscored that dietary transformation is essential for meeting net zero goals. This is a widespread sentiment echoed by researchers, indicating that the Global North cannot fulfill international climate commitments without adopting more plant-forward diets. Davey has strongly advised the UK government to incorporate dietary change, alongside improved agricultural practices, in its revised climate strategies. Nevertheless, the contentious nature of dietary change—especially regarding meat consumption—poses significant challenges. The Global North, including the UK and the United States, is significantly responsible for agricultural emissions. Therefore, the success of the UAE Declaration hinges on tangible commitments from these major contributors Pledges at COP28 also extended beyond nations to include businesses and foundations, committing over $7 billion to transformative food solutions. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) proposed a roadmap for enhancing food systems, aligning food security with climate goals in light of an anticipated global population of 9.7 billion by 2050. However, progress has stalled, with the roadmap facing delays and critiques regarding its operational effectiveness. One positive development stems from the establishment of the Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation, which aims to promote effective practices across its member countries. Notably, Sierra Leone has exemplified successful national reforms in food production without compromising environmental integrity. The support from the African Development Bank has facilitated significant advancements in domestic rice production, setting a benchmark for other nations. Importantly, as nations engage in food systems reform, a collective approach is essential to address the interconnected challenges that transcend national boundaries. The effectiveness of COP29 will likely depend on the commitments made by member countries, especially regarding sustainable agricultural practices and dietary adaptations. The forthcoming conference in Azerbaijan serves as an opportunity to redirect efforts towards achieving meaningful environmental and climate outcomes across the globe.

The increasing attention to food systems within climate discussions arises from their substantial contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, particularly due to meat production. This year marks COP29’s focus on reviewing the commitments made by countries in areas of agriculture and food security, following COP28’s promise to integrate food sector reforms into national climate goals. As food systems face growing pressures from an expanding global population, the call for immediate action is more pressing than ever. The success of nations in effectively reforming their food systems may significantly impact global climate progress.

The convening of COP29 in Baku emphasizes the urgent need for countries to follow through on pledges to integrate food system reforms into their national climate strategies. With significant emissions stemming from food production, particularly in the Global North, targeted dietary shifts are crucial. Collaborative efforts, as demonstrated by alliances among nations, alongside business and foundation contributions, signal a commitment to a transformative agenda. Future actions may hinge upon how effectively countries respond to the challenges posed by climate change in relation to food systems.

Original Source: sentientmedia.org