FAO report shows pathways for decarbonising agrifood systems

Agrifood system emissions account for 21 percent to 37 percent of total anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions depending on estimates

A new report from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), provides a comprehensive look at decarbonising agrifood systems, which is necessary and achievable.  

The report, Investing in carbon neutrality: utopia or the new green wave? Challenges and opportunities for agrifood systems, draws on insights from a wide range of stakeholders and sets out five areas for action to move the decarbonisation agenda forward.

The report identifies five action areas that show what different stakeholders – policymakers, agribusinesses, farmers, international organizations – can do to accelerate the transition to greener agrifood systems: (i) strategically target carbon neutrality, (ii) improve and standardize tools and methods, (iii) promote sound governance mechanisms, (iv) directly support companies and farmers to decarbonize and (v) educate and communicate on carbon neutrality.

Governments can set the tone through policies, strategies and road maps including a strong commitment in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). They can regulate carbon emissions or provide incentives for the adoption of low carbon technologies, as well as support the development of transparent and efficient carbon markets. Measuring carbon neutrality can be a major challenge for private companies. Governments can help by defining, simplifying and harmonizing internationally recognized standards for carbon accounting. 

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