Building and strengthening climate-resilient agri-food systems

Abstract

A comprehensive transformation of agri-food systems is critical for achieving food and nutritional security. Building and reinforcing climate-resilient systems necessitates moving beyond a sole focus on production to incorporate inclusive, participatory structures that are both sustainable and ethical, while capable of withstanding the pressures of a changing climate. A central element of this transformation is accessibility, which implies providing equitable access to the resources required for food production and considering the ethical and environmental impacts of investments within the system. Practices that prioritize short-term gains over longterm ecological health are incompatible with a resilient future. Climate change poses a significant threat to food security. Extreme weather events, prolonged droughts, and gradual processes such as sea-level rise directly impact food production. To create climate-resilient agri-food systems, a comprehensive approach to risk management is essential, integrating adaptation, mitigation, and preparedness strategies. Strengthening climate-resilient agri-food systems necessitates the involvement of stakeholders at all levels, from farmers and academia to the private sector and policymakers, to collect on theground evidence and develop suitable solutions. SLYCAN Trust plays a pivotal role in this context. Our work in food systems focuses on identifying and promoting alternative plant-based protein sources that are accessible and contribute to livelihood development in Sri Lanka. This aligns with the move towards more sustainable and climate-friendly food production methods. Moreover, SLYCAN Trust highlights the importance of a conducive environment for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to engage in agriculture, acknowledging their potential as agents of change and solution providers in building resilient food systems. The pursuit of climate-resilient agri-food systems offers a promising route towards achieving lasting food and nutritional security prioritizing sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience, the goal is to establish a future where food production can thrive despite the challenges of a changing climate.