COP26: Agri-Food system has important role to play in contributing to Paris Agreement targets

Climate Action, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), hosted the Agri-Food Transition Summit at COP26. The hybrid event was broadcast live from the Innovation Zone in Glasgow.

The Summit opened with a speech by Poran Malani, Director of S4 Capital, which paved the way for morning discussions focussed on the need for, technicalities to and methods of transforming the Agri-Food system. Particular focus was paid to the SDGs and more broadly to how the Agri-Food system can contribute to national Paris Agreement targets.

A keynote speech from Ban Ki-Moon drove home the importance of change in the system as an enabler of climate recovery.

In the afternoon, discourse turned to delivery. The importance of innovation was highlighted and the necessity to engage with and bring along supply chains on the agenda. Jo Whitfield, Chief Executive at Co-operative Food, was joined by Mary Kinyua, Fairtrade Flower Producer and COP CSO & Youth Advisory Council Member at Kenya Fairtrade International, to discuss the relationship and partnership between for the Farmer to Retailer agricultural supply chain.

Action came out as the key theme throughout the summit. More than just ambition, speakers focused on actions their businesses are taking to transform the Agri-Food system. As well as the importance of bringing others in their supply chains along through engagement and thought leadership.

Missed the Agri-Food Tranistion Summit? You can watch all the sessions on demand here.