"The transformation of agri-food systems accelerates climate action": this is the theme chosen by FAO for the 2023 World Food Forum to be held from 16 to 20 October 2023, an event that will focus on youth leadership in the transformation of agri-food systems to accelerate climate action.
The announcement was made today at an event on the sidelines of the 172nd session of the Council of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
Currently, agri-food systems account for a third of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, 90% of global deforestation and 70% of water use, and are the main cause of the loss of terrestrial biodiversity.
In addition, enough food is wasted around the world to feed 1.3 billion hungry people every year.
"Last year - said Máximo Torero, president of the FAO Youth Committee in his opening speech - almost 3.1 billion people could not afford fruit and vegetables. Two out of three children do not have enough food to grow to their fullest However, countries can take concerted action to reverse these trends", by choosing "transformation paths for their agri-food systems that minimize the compromises for our environment, biodiversity and climate".
Launched in 2021, the World Food Forum is an independent global network that aims to empower young people to actively transform agri-food systems to achieve sustainability goals.
"The transformation of agri-food systems is a central part of the global climate solution and young people are at its heart", as they act "as heirs of these challenges, but also as advocates for change", concluded Torero.