Columbia University and IICA have initiated a project to redefine the narrative surrounding agriculture in Latin America, focusing on its significance for future food security and environmental sustainability. The discussions involve a range of experts aiming to develop a roadmap addressing key issues including climate change, food security, and the role of innovation. The collaboration emphasizes inclusivity and a holistic view of agriculture’s contributions to global challenges.
Columbia University, in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), has embarked on a significant initiative to construct a new narrative underscoring the vital role of agriculture in Latin America. This effort is designed to elucidate the strategic significance of agriculture over the next three decades in response to pressing global challenges. In New York, an exclusive assembly of distinguished experts from diverse sectors convened to deliberate on a structured plan addressing food and nutritional security, environmental sustainability, and energy security. The objective of this collaborative undertaking is to reinforce agri-food systems in the region as integral problem solvers within a framework marked by an escalating global population, socio-political conflicts, and a climate crisis. The discussions were hosted during a pivotal event at Columbia University’s Forum, renowned for shaping international public discourse. Notable participants included Guyana’s President, Mohammed Irfaan Ali; IICA Director General, Manuel Otero; Jeffrey Shaman, Dean of Columbia’s Climate School; and Cynthia Rosenzweig from NASA’s Goddard Institute. Also integral to the discussions were Ismahane Elouafi from CGIAR, Brazilian executive Paulo Pianez Junior from Marfrig, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Rubén Echeverría, and several others, all of whom contributed to the formulation of the roadmap. The talks were coordinated by Izabella Teixeira, former Brazilian Minister of the Environment, emphasizing the necessity of a realistic portrayal of Latin America as a global entity capable of delivering food security and ecosystem services. The interaction between agriculture, climate change, and biodiversity was a crucial focus, aiming to craft a narrative that emphasizes efficient resource use, resilience, and enhanced productivity. The session titled “Creating a new narrative for agriculture in Latin America. Resource-efficient agri-food systems for the health of people and the planet,” coincided with the United Nations General Assembly and Climate Week in New York. Key insights from President Irfaan Ali advocated for an evolutionary viewpoint of agriculture that intertwines production with biodiversity preservation, citing the need for inclusivity regarding youth and women as pivotal contributors to agriculture’s impact on well-being and economic progress. Manuel Otero echoed this sentiment, addressing the prevalence of an outdated view of agriculture dominated by quantity over quality. The roadmap’s construction encourages interaction among governments, industries, and civil societal participants within leading global forums. A notable future event will be the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 29) in November, where IICA will feature a pavilion to represent the regional agricultural landscape. Subsequent year’s COP 30 will further emphasize Brazil’s stance on agriculture’s critical role. Teixeira highlighted challenges resulting from ongoing climate and ecological crises, as well as the rise of environmental non-tariff barriers in trade. She articulated that the new narrative should bridge the divide between production and ecological stewardship, showcasing Latin America’s agriculture amid international instability. Columbia researcher Walter Baethgen underscored the necessity of outreach to urban populations regarding agriculture’s relevance, acknowledging the substantial work needed to foster awareness. Participants unanimously recognized the urgent need for scientific innovation in addressing evolving consumer demands for healthful foods and tangential social issues.
The collaboration between Columbia University and IICA underscores a growing consciousness regarding the importance of agriculture in Latin America amidst global challenges such as climate change and food insecurity. As Latin America is home to abundant natural resources and a significant agricultural sector, it is crucial to leverage this potential effectively. This initiative aims to reshape perceptions and strategies surrounding agriculture to better align with contemporary socio-economic and environmental realities.
In summary, the joint initiative between Columbia University and IICA marks a pivotal step towards reframing the agricultural narrative in Latin America. By focusing on the integration of agriculture with environmental concerns and inclusivity, this undertaking aims to address global challenges while promoting sustainable practices. The collaboration seeks to harness the substantial potential of Latin American agriculture as a cornerstone for both food security and environmental stewardship in the face of ongoing climate crises and socio-political volatility.
Original Source: caribbeannewsservice.com
