GS Paper 3
Syllabus: Environment and Conservation
Source: FAO
Context: At a time when the world is reeling under challenges like hunger, COVID-19, ecosystem degradation and inequalities, the presentation of the FAO Strategy on Climate Change 2022-2031 is timely.
How?
The Strategy rests on the vision of climate-resilient agriculture to transform agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.
Why?
Sustainable and resilient agrifood systems provide a variety of solutions that respond to climate crisis challenges and contribute to restoring degraded natural and managed ecosystems.
FAO Strategy on Climate Change 2022-2031:
- Endorsed by the FAO Council, this Strategy is a response to the worldwide challenge of tackling the impacts of the climate crisis.
- It aims to address a broad range of interlinked challenges, including –
- biodiversity loss,
- desertification,
- land and environmental degradation,
- the need for accessible, affordable renewable energy, and
- food and water security.
Implications: It will help countries implement their country-driven commitments and plans, including –
- Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and
- National Adaptation Plans (NAPs)
- 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
Conclusion: The new Strategy looks beyond only food production by considering crops and livestock, forests, fisheries and aquaculture in a holistic manner, as well as embracing the indispensable role of women, youth and Indigenous Peoples, as essential agents of change.
Related news: Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)
Source: DTE
Context: The 19th regular session of the CGRFA was concluded recently at the FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.
CGRFA of FAO: The commission is a scientific and technical intergovernmental body that provides policy guidance towards the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and genetic resources specifically geared towards food and agriculture.
Outcome/ achievement CGRFA-19: The establishment of a technical working group on genetic resources of microorganisms and pollinators was one of the biggest achievements of the meeting.
Significance:
● Microorganisms (help in bioremediation and nutrient cycling in the soil) and pollinators (help in natural pest control and pollination of agricultural crops) are essential for food security.
● However, they have been largely neglected by the commission.
Insta Links:
Climate change and agriculture
Mains Links:
What measures should India take to weather-proof its food security in the face of climate change?
