Ministerial roundtable on climate change and food security: The role of nuclear science and technology

Time: 10:00–11:00 (GMT + 4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, IAEA
Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrrVZRCyaYY

Appropriate governance of the implementation bodies of the Sustainable Oases Initiative

Time: 9:30-10:30 (GMT+4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, Government of Morocco
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/appropriate-governance-of-the-implementation-bodies-of-the-sustainable-oases-initiative/ 

The objective of this side event is to gather insights on the appropriate governance of the implementing bodies of the Sustainable Oases Initiative. The overall aim is to operationalize the Sustainable Oases Initiative, incorporating it into major international trends related to sustainable agroecosystem management and climate change adaptation. 

Crowdsourcing AI solutions for climate change

Time: 16:45–18:15 (GMT+4)
Venue: SE Room 4 
Organizers: International Telecommunication Union, International Atomic Energy Agency, FAO, UNESCO

The combination of science and innovative solutions powered by digital and AI technologies offer new avenues to tackle the climate crisis. Projects and winning AI solutions for climate change launched at the AI for Good Global Summit 2023 will be featured.

Global Leaders Group on AMR high-level side event: Political action for the AMR and environment on the road to the UNGA HLM on AMR in 2024

Time: 17:00–18:00 (GMT+4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: AMR quadripartite (FAO/UNEP/WHO/WOAH) joint secretariat (QJS) 
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/political-action-for-the-amr-and-environment-on-the-road-to-the-unga-hlm-on-amr-in-2024/ 

The session will bring high-level attention to AMR and the need to transform agrifood systems to optimize animal, plant and environmental health, ensure responsible and sustainable use of antimicrobials and most importantly, reduce the need to use antimicrobials and promote innovation for evidence-based and sustainable alternatives. 

Agrifood systems transformation to achieve triple wins: For people, for climate and for nature

Time: 18:30–20:00 (GMT+4)
Venue: SE Room 2
Organizers: FAO, IFAD

Agrifood systems transformation is essential to achieving food security for all, while contributing to achieving the 1.5 temperature goal. Increased ambition needs to be backed by adequate policies and finance to safeguard food security, end hunger leaving no one behind. The high-level event will showcase how agriculture provides many solutions to the climate crisis including for mitigation, adaptation and resilience building.

How best to streamline the national Early Warning System?

Time: 9:00–10:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Somalia Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

Somalia faces severe climate impacts, including droughts and floods disrupting resources and livelihoods. Urgent action is needed to enhance resilience, particularly through a consolidated national Early Warning System. Existing initiatives require streamlining, and unified coordination for early warning and action is crucial. The event aims to showcase Somalia's early warning instruments, demonstrate their application in anticipatory action for current flooding, and introduce the pillars of the November 2022 Early Warning for All initiative, forming the basis of a unified system.

Action event: Shaping a climate resilient future for people and nature through the Sharm El-Sheikh adaptation agenda

Time: 10:00–11:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Arena 2 (Al Wakri)
Organizers: MPGCA Resilience Group, Global Resilience Partnership, FAO

Non-party stakeholders are advancing climate adaptation and resilience through diverse pathways outlined in the MPGCA, Sharm Adaptation Agenda, and Race to Resilience reports. Despite much progress and evidence, radical collaboration is needed to accelerate implementation. Mobilizing and facilitating access to adaptation finance for frontline communities affected by the climate crisis is fundamental.

Opening Session of High-level Panel ‘Watering the NDCs and NAPs’

Time: 10:00–11:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Water Pavilion 
Organizers: WaterAid, WWF US, FAO
Livestream: https://youtube.com/live/tHZtP5mVaQs
More information: https://waterforclimate.net/events/educational-mapping-interactive-opening-session/

This event will cover the status of inclusion of water in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and present tools, best practices and ongoing activities to better integrate water into these processes and plans. 

Scaling up integrated actions to address malnutrition and climate change: an intersectional and intergenerational dialogue

Time: 11:00–12:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, WFF and Slovenia
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/scaling-up-integrated-actions-to-address-malnutrition-and-climate-change-an-intersectional-and-intergenerational-dialogue/ 

FAO is collaborating with partners to present advancements made in the Initiative on Climate Action and Nutrition (I-CAN) and its work to catalyse integrated actions that address the challenges of climate change and malnutrition simultaneously. The event will also illustrate progress made by the Food and Agriculture for Sustainable Transformation (FAST) Initiative and its operationalization into the FAST Partnership.  The session will present youth-led country examples of integrated actions related to agrifood systems, water, social protection, and health systems, highlighting youth efforts to advance nutrition action in the context of a changing climate.

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Arab Cooperation for Climate Action in Water, Energy and Food Systems

Time: 11:30–13:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: SE Room 9
Organizers: Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), FAO, League of Arab States (LAS), United Nations Environment Programme - Regional Office for West Asia (UNEP/ROWA), World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

This event will showcase Arab cooperation for Climate Action in Water, Energy and Food Systems. The region is pursing sustainable solutions to overcome vulnerability caused by climate change impacts on water, energy and food systems. Regional strategies are informed by science-based assessments and circular economy approaches and advocate for balanced adaptation and mitigation finance.

Flowing together: Integrating freshwater in NDCs and NAPs

Time: 12:00-13:30
Venue: Water Pavilion 
Organizers: FAO, WaterAid, World Wildlife Fund, Inc. (WWF US)
Livestream: https://youtube.com/live/ldul0tqxjU0
More information: https://waterforclimate.net/events/flowing-together-integrating-freshwater-ndc-nap/

This session offers a prime opportunity to delve deeper into the vital integration of water resources and freshwater ecosystems into national climate planning efforts. The panel will spotlight countries' successful integration of water considerations into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs). Real-world examples will serve as inspirational models, providing actionable recommendations for effective implementation. Furthermore, the session will explore the pivotal involvement of non-state stakeholders in ensuring the success of integrated water and climate planning, underscoring the collaborative approach needed for seamless implementation.

Implementation Lab: Fostering adaptation transformations at the nexus of food, water and health to deliver on the Sharm Adaptation Agenda

Time: 12:30–13:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Al Jeer
Organizers: MPGCA Resilience Group, Global Resilience Partnership, FAO

Strategic adaptation and resilience actions that span food, water, and health systems can play a pivotal role in realizing the transformative changes necessary for global climate adaptation agreements. While successful examples of these actions exist, urgent acceleration is needed in both scale and pace of implementation. Additionally, there is a critical need for increased mobilization and access to adaptation finance for those on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

Overcoming obstacles and watering the plans

Time: 14:00-15:30
Venue: Water Pavilion 
Organizers: FAO, WaterAid, World Wildlife Fund, Inc. (WWF US)

This session focuses on barriers to integrating water into national climate plans and will provide a space for in-depth discussion of obstacles relating to costing, financing, stakeholder engagement, and implementation.

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Collective Action on Wildfire Management: Ways Forward to Address Evolving Disasters

Time: 15:00–16:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Korea Pavilion
Organizers: Korea Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, National Emergency Management Agency of Australia, FAO
Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/@cop28koreapavilion/streams 

The event will discuss and exchange best practices, knowledge, technologies, and integrated strategies related to the 5Rs (review and analysis, risk reduction, readiness, response, and recovery) in addressing future fire threats alongside global partners. Additionally, it will assess current fire management measures, fostering a reflection on and contribution to innovative approaches for a healthier future in fire management.

From relief to climate-resilient development: Reducing humanitarian needs, protecting people and planet by scaling up integrated resilience actions in the face of climate change

Time: 16:00–17:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Blue Zone - Al Saih Roundtable
Organizers: WFP, FAO, COP28 Presidency
Livestream: http://www.fao.org/webcast/home/en/item/6418/icode/

Greater resilience enhances food security, livelihoods, peace, and social cohesion. Speakers will showcase impactful interventions, such as soil restoration and climate risk management, calling for increased climate adaptation by humanitarian and development actors to combat hunger, fortify resilience, and support peace in vulnerable communities.

Water action agenda & climate plans (High-level panel ‘Watering the NDCs and NAPs')

Time: 16:00–17:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Water Pavilion 
Organizers: WaterAid, WWF US, FAO
Livestream: https://youtube.com/live/i3vW-FLRkF8
More information: https://waterforclimate.net/events/water-action-agenda-climate-plans/

This session will tackle the questions of how to combine acceleration of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and climate adaptation and mitigation. It will also discuss how we can improve the Water Action Agenda (WAA) commitments to further integrate climate challenges.

Concluding Session of High-level Panel ‘Watering the NDCs and NAPs'

Time: 17:00–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Water Pavilion 
Organizers: WaterAid, WWF US, FAO
Livestream: https://youtube.com/live/461N-BueghE
More information: https://waterforclimate.net/events/concluding-session-ndc-nap-day/

This session will summarize the 'Watering the NDCs and NAPs’ day and reflect on the experiences and expertise shared, with the objective of identifying next steps and targeted actions in the framework of UNFCCC processes.

Addressing loss and damage and advancing climate action in agriculture and food security: a perspective on the upcoming negotiations

Time: 17:00–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Blue Zone - Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: CGIAR, WWF, FAO
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/addressing-loss-and-damage-and-advancing-climate-action-in-agriculture-and-food-security-a-perspective-on-the-upcoming-negotiations/ 

Climate change poses unprecedented challenges to global agriculture and food security, with vulnerable communities experiencing tangible and often irreversible losses and damages. With agriculture being responsible for one third of global greenhouse gas emission, it is urgent to agree on a way forward to step up implementation of climate action in this sector, and more broadly in food systems.

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Strengthening climate resilience, adaptation and mitigation through food loss and waste reduction

Time: 18:30–19:30  (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/strengthening-climate-resilience-adaptation-and-mitigation-through-food-loss-and-waste-reduction/ 

This event will draw attention to the role Food loss and waste (FLW) reduction can play in climate change mitigation and adaptation, and showcase successful approaches to leverage FLW reduction for climate action through agrifood systems transformation to achieve the SDGs.

Community-led solutions: How social forestry is tackling climate change and its best practices

Time: 09:00–10:20 (GMT+4)
Venue: Indonesia  Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, Indonesia

Climate change and child labour: understanding the impact of climate change, and of mitigation and adaptation policies on the incidence of child labour

Time: 09:30–10:20 (GMT+4)
Venue: Just Transition Pavilion
Organizers: ILO, FAO

The session will reflect on existing research examining the interplay between child labour and climate change. It will seek to provide an initial picture of some of the key channels – both direct and indirect – through which climate change and climate change responses are linked to child labour, and the broad implications for policy moving forward. Panelists will present new research undertaken by ILO and FAO respectively on this emerging issue, and discussants representing workers’ and employers’ perspectives will reflect on how climate action can be structured to reduce child labour and avoid unintended negative effects of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.

Gendered dimensions of climate-related emergencies: partnerships and financing through a gender and localization lens

Time: 10:00–11:00 (GMT+4)
Venue: Humanitarian Hub, Women Pavilion
Organizers: UN Women, OCHA, WPHF, OFPRC, FAO

This interactive dialogue will examine promising practices and challenges in the humanitarian sector's efforts to address the needs of women and girls in today's climate-induced crises. The discussion will explore opportunities to amplify efforts, forge partnerships, and secure financing, with a specific focus on collaborating with and supporting women-led organizations to enhance assistance for affected women and girls.

Promoting nature-based solutions in the Dry Corridor of Central America and Arid Zones of the SICA region, from a synergistic approach between the Conventions on Climate Change, Biodiversity and Desertification

Time: 11:00–12:00 (GMT+4)
Venue: SICA Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

This event will present the strategies, good practices and lessons learned to reduce vulnerability and strengthen resilience in the territories of the Dry Corridor and arid zones of the Dominican Republic looking at synergies across the three Conventions of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Desertification.

Coordinating for greater ocean-based climate change ambition: A UN-Oceans perspective

Time: 11:30–13:00 (GMT+4)
Venue: SE Room 7
Organizers: UN Oceans, FAO

Following the Ocean-Climate Dialogue and the GST, this event will showcase how UN-Oceans is building synergies at all levels for ocean-based mitigation and adaptation, and how collaboration for climate-smart ocean management can contribute to increased ambition for a greater collective impact.

Building climate-resilient health systems through partnerships like the ATACH

Time: 13:15–14:45 (GMT+4)
Venue: SE Room 5
Organizers: WHO, FAO, OHCHR, UNICEF, UNDP, UNFPA, UNU

This side event will spotlight collaborations and partnerships aimed at scaling up initiatives for the coherent and sustainable transition, construction, and maintenance of future climate-resilient health systems.

Progress in establishing the national transparency systems in Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus: challenges and opportunities

Time: 15:30–16:30 (GMT+4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO
Agenda: https://www.fao.org/3/cc8964en/cc8964en.pdf
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/climate-action-to-address-food-crises-in-fragile-and-conflict-affected-contexts/ 

This technical session will provide evidence for mobilizing investment in climate actions that build resilient agrifood systems from the ground up in humanitarian and food crises contexts. Speakers will bring the climate, peace and security nexus to the forefront and will provide insights into the complex interactions between climate, conflict, hunger, forced displacement and climate-induced mobility.

Central Asia’s climate finance synergy: Unlocking GEF/GCF opportunities with FAO support

Time: 16:45–18:15 (GMT+4)
Venue: Central Asian Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

Investing in the future: Transforming financing for the Paris Agreement & development goals

Time: 11:30–13:00 (GMT+4)
Venue: SE Room 5
Organizers: FAO, UNCTAD, UNDP

This event will reflect on recent discussions on transforming the financial system to meet climate goals, while demonstrating the power of investing in NDCs for sustainable development. It will explore ways to raise ambition for climate financing that build on, and inform, country experiences.

The state of carbon payments and the voluntary carbon market in agriculture

Time: 12:30–13:30 (GMT+4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/the-state-of-carbon-payments-and-the-voluntary-carbon-market-in-agriculture/

This side event will present the first global stocktake of carbon payments and the VCM in agriculture. Distinguished panelists will share their diverse experiences and strategies, fostering dialogue on financing large-scale transformative solutions at the national level. Existing institutional and technical challenges associated with the development of these markets will be discussed and some solutions explored.

Enabling climate action through data, transparency and finance

Time: 13:15–14:45 (GMT+4)
Venue: SE Room 2
Organizers: FAO, UNDRR, UNOPS, UNECE, UNU, IOM, ODI, REAP, GNDR, ALL ACT

The climate emergency has picked up pace, demanding urgent and robust action. The event will focus on such key enablers to accelerate climate solutions across sectors and systems, in particular, data, transparency and accountability, triggering better finance.

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National actions for climate and food: Launch of new NDC guidance tool for Agriculture and Food Systems

Time: 15:30–16:30 (GMT+4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, BMZ, WWF, GA, CGIAR
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/national-actions-for-climate-and-food-launch-of-new-ndc-guidance-tool-for-agriculture-and-food-systems/

This high-level side event will officially launch the NDC guidance tool on agriculture and food systems. The tool offers guidance to policy makers and practitioners to support the implementation of policies, governance, and on the ground measures that enable systemic shifts in agriculture and food systems to meet NDC targets and enhance mitigation of GHG in the food sector. This event will showcase how voluntary carbon markets can help low- and middle-income countries fund food system transformations for security, resilience, and reduced emissions. 

Migration data & climate change and impact of agriculture

Time: 9:00–10:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: African Union Pavilion
Organizers: The Africa Migration Observatory, FAO

This event will bring together relevant African and global stakeholders to highlight the importance of data collection and analysis to policy making and programming in climate mobility, as well as the impact of agriculture at all levels of governance. 

Regional dialogue on transboundary sand and dust storms in the Arab region

Time: 9:30–10:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Iraq Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, UNHABITAT, ESCWA

The roundtable brings together stakeholders to discuss regional mechanisms for combating transboundary sand and dust storms within the context of the increasing climate change risk.

Amplifying impact: online tools for stronger climate action

Time: 12:00–13:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Somalia Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, NDC Partnership, UNEP

In the face of escalating climate change threats to global agrifood systems, the urgency to adopt innovative tools has never been more critical. From geospatial solutions to greenhouse gas accounting tools and online portals, this event will show how to obtain data-driven insights to enhance the decision-making process, with emphasis on bridging the gap between technological advancements and on-the-ground implementation.

Avoiding the perfect storm: Enabling aquatic food climate solutions through policy, science and finance

Time: 17:00–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

Live stream: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/avoiding-the-perfect-storm-enabling-aquatic-foods-climate-solutions-through-policy-science-and-finance/

This session emphasizes the climate vulnerability of aquatic food systems, advocating for coordinated action in policy, science and finance to mitigate impacts on communities heavily reliant on aquatic systems for sustenance. The event will also illustrate how sustainable aquatic food systems represent a climate solution.

Quality adaptation finance for smallholders in Africa and Near East

Time: 17:00–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Somalia Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, Somalia

By bringing together experts and practitioners, this side event seeks to facilitate a meaningful dialogue on practical strategies and solutions that address the unique challenges posed by climate change in the context of African agrifood systems. It will explore how adaptation climate finance can be strategically deployed to enhance adaptive capacity, implement resilient practices, and ultimately ensure the sustainability of agrifood systems in Africa.

Day off

Uniting leaders to support our global food systems in their transition to a low-carbon, equitable and resilient future

Time: All day
Venue: Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre, Al Sufouh Road, Dubai, UA
Organizers: Climate Action, FAO

The Agri-Food Systems Summit, in collaboration with UN FAO, returns to COP28 in Dubai, convening 400 stakeholders for its second edition. With participants from various sectors, including policymakers, investors, agri-tech innovators, farmers, researchers, retailers, and business leaders, the Summit aims to establish new models of multi-stakeholder collaboration. It focuses on achieving SDG2 by identifying transformative pathways for agrifood systems, emphasizing sustainability and resilience across production, processing, and storage, highlighting the importance and scarcity of water. 

Harvesting equality: Collaborative investment solutions for climate action

Time: 11:30–12:15 (GMT +4)
Venue: Slovenian Pavilion
Organizers: GCSA, FAO

This side event will address the pressing need for collaborative investment solutions in the context of climate action. Various stakeholders will collectively explore inventive approaches to ensure that partnerships and financial models not only contribute to inclusive growth but also effectively tackle the challenges posed by climate change.

Climate & Canopy: Amplifying Action for SDG 13 & 15 through Primary Forest Conservation 

Time: 11:45–12:45 (GMT +4)
Venue: COP28 SDG Pavilion
Organizers: IUCN, GEF, UNFF, CPF, FAO

The event will foster a better understanding of the need to enhance the conservation of primary forests, and explore actionable steps to be taken to champion primary forest conservation, in line with the objectives of SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Less emissions with better livestock production: Climate solutions for sustainable livestock transformation

Time: 12:30–13:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO 
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/less-emissions-with-better-livestock-production-climate-solutions-for-sustainable-livestock-transformation/ 

The release of FAO's global assessment on livestock’s GHG emissions and the report on methane emissions in livestock and rice systems provides a foundation for informed decision-making towards low-emission and climate-resilient practices. This event will disseminate key findings, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and pathways to align with the Paris Agreement and the Global Methane Pledge. Partners will showcase best practices in sustainable livestock management, spotlighting technological advancements and innovative approaches for emission reduction.

Transparency triumphs: Advancements in Tajikistan's national climate reporting systems

The side event will spotlight capacity-building endeavors, particularly those spearheaded by initiatives such as Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded projects, FAO's Capacity-building Initiative for Transparency (CBIT) projects, the ICAT/CAREC ReCATH regional project, and the global CBIT-GSP initiative. The focus is on showcasing how these initiatives have empowered non-Annex 1 parties, significantly strengthening their capacities to formulate and manage transparent frameworks effectively.

Landscapes for water - Scaling-up locally-led climate actions

Time: 13:30–14:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Resilience Hub
Organizers: FAO, AGWA, Australian Water Partnership, SIWI
Agenda: https://cop-resilience-hub.org/at-a-glance-2023/ 
Registration: https://giggabox.eventsair.com/resilience-hub-2023/registration-visitor/Site/Register

By embracing holistic and inclusive approaches with local solutions, landscapes can offer essential ecosystem services vital for climate adaptation and mitigation. These services encompass water regulation for agriculture, industries, and people, protective functions against extreme events, biodiversity habitats, and carbon stock maintenance. This session will spotlight best practices, tools, and local initiatives enhancing climate action and water resilience across landscapes. Discussions will explore ways to upscale and systematically integrate these approaches into global and national processes.

The Global Stocktake: An opportunity to accelerate food systems transformation through enhanced NDCs

Time: 14:00–15:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: WWF Pavilion
Organizers: WWF, Global Alliance for the Future of Food , CGIAR, FAO

This event aims to elevate food systems transformation as a key outcome of COP28, emphasizing its significance for the Global Stocktake and the acceleration of climate action at the national level. Additionally, it seeks to enhance Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for Food Systems by introducing the NDC Guidance Tool. The event will provide crucial recommendations on integrating food systems transformation into the outcomes of the Global Stocktake at COP28.

Towards a global stocktake for peatlands and high-carbon ecosystems: status & scaling up potential

Time: 15:00–16:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: SE Room 6
Organizers: Michael Succow Foundation for the Protection of Nature (MSF), German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU), Wetlands International, FAO

The symposium will feature cutting-edge insights into global peatlands, providing a comprehensive evaluation of advancements made and future trajectories in line with the Paris Agreement's objectives. This includes an analysis of peatlands' contributions to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The event will not only deliver state-of-the-art knowledge but also highlight innovative strategies, policy frameworks, and funding initiatives aimed at scaling up climate action efforts.

From planning to practices – integrating land use planning (ILUP) for climate-smart agriculture and food security

Time: 9:30–10:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/from-planning-to-practices-integrating-land-use-planning-ilup-for-climate-smart-agriculture-and-food-security/

This event will highlight the FAO recently updated climate-informed and water-wise integrated land use planning guidelines. It will showcase the application of digital tools like the global agri-ecological zone (GAEZ) and present practical on-the-ground solutions, such as soil management.

Enhancing Agricultural Resilience through Water-Inclusive Public Policies: Collaborative Strategies for Climate Change in Latin America and the Caribbean

Time: 10:00–10:50 (GMT +4)
Venue: Zayed Sustainability Prize Pavilion, Energy Transition Hub, Green Zone
Organizers: FAO

The objective of this session is to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration among stakeholders, focusing on water-related public policies in agriculture, and addressing challenges and successes in policy implementation across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Everything all at once: High-level dialogue on supercharging forest solutions to the climate crisis

Time: 10:00–11:15 (GMT +4)
Venue: UNEP Pavilion
Organizers: UN-REDD, FAO

The race to decarbonization demands a comprehensive "everything, everywhere all at once" strategy. While much attention has been placed on the transport and energy sectors, forests represent an overlooked opportunity for mitigating at least 4 gigatonnes of emissions. This high-level dialogue will explore a diverse toolbox of solutions, with a particular focus on the role of carbon markets, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of forest-based actions in addressing both climate change and financial considerations.

Nature first: From land to ocean, our best ally for climate action

Time: 10:00–12:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Al Hur (Arena 1)
Organizers: Marrakech Partnership on Land Use and on Ocean & Coastal Zones, FAO

The event aims to highlight initiatives undertaken by a range of non-state actors across land and ocean ecosystems to reverse biodiversity decline by 2030 and enhance ecosystem and human resilience to climate change, stressing the need to implement systemic approaches.

Amazon Bioeconomy and Inclusive Rural Transformation

Time: 10:55– (GMT +4)
Venue: Zayed Sustainability Prize Pavilion, Energy Transition Hub, Green Zone
Organizers: FAO

The objective of this event is to assess opportunities and challenges to untap the potential of bioeconomy as a viable pathway for sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient development in the Amazon region, while supporting livelihoods in accordance with local knowledge and preferences of Indigenous Peoples, People of African descent, rural women, family farmers, rural youth, and traditional communities.

Ecosystem restoration to combat global warming, biodiversity loss and food insecurity – scaling up via the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Time: 12:30–13:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO
Webpage: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/ecosystem-restoration-to-combat-global-warming-biodiversity-loss-and-food-insecurity-scaling-up-via-the-un-decade-on-ecosystem-restoration/

This event underscores the importance of a shared vision, unified standards of practice, and harmonized monitoring tools to achieve the objectives of the Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. The event focuses on restoring ecosystem health and productivity and three flagship initiatives will be presented.

Climate change mitigation through peatland restoration: Experiences from UNOPS-BRGM collaboration

Time: 13:00–14:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: UNOPS Hub
Organizers: FAO, United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)

Indonesia hosts nearly 40 percent of the world's tropical peatlands, playing a crucial role in natural carbon storage, soil fertility, and biodiversity protection. Bringing together senior representatives and experts from the Government of Indonesia, the UN, other international agencies, and local partners, this panel discussion highlights best practices in peatland restoration in Indonesia. The session delves into global experiences, exploring the potential replication of this model for wider-reaching climate initiatives.

Enhancing Agrifood Systems: Spotlight on Arab Region Climate Solutions 

Time: 13:00–14:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: League of Arab States Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, League of Arab States, Arab Organization for Agricultural Development

This session aims to bring together representatives from Arab ministries, international organizations, and researchers to address the unique challenges and opportunities in the NENA region related to climate change, emphasizing the pivotal role of agrifood systems in climate action and providing a platform for enhancing ministries' capacities in sustainable climate efforts. 

Implementation lab: Monitoring land restoration to advance ambitious climate action

Time: 13:00–14:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Al Shaheen (Lab 1)
Organizers: Conservation International, FAO, Restor
Website: https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/conferences/un-climate-change-conference-united-arab-emirates-nov/dec-2023/global-climate-action-at-cop-28

Land restoration is pivotal in addressing both the climate and biodiversity crises, simultaneously enhancing food and water security. Government commitments to rejuvenate degraded landscapes, evident in initiatives like the Bonn Challenge and regional efforts, cover nearly 1 billion hectares across 115 countries. The Implementation Lab will showcase cutting-edge innovations in restoration monitoring and highlight partnerships that contribute to tracking restoration outcomes on the ground.

Strengthening nature-based water resilience: Building momentum for scaling up locally led climate action

Time: 13:30–14:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Resilience Hub
Organizers: Alliance for Global Water Adaptation (AGWA), Australia Water Partnership, Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI), FAO

Local communities at the forefront of climate change impacts often lack representation in decision-making processes that directly impact them. This session aims to guide participants through solutions in different contexts. The presentation will feature best practices, tools, and local initiatives that enhance climate action and water resilience.

Water to accelerate climate resilience for sustainable peace and development in the Sahel region

Time: 15:00–16:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: SE Room 1
Organizers: UNISS, FAO, UNCCD, UNCDF, UNDP, UNESCO, WFP

The Sahel is characterized by harsh climate conditions with strong climatic variability. These conditions alter water quality/availability as obstacles to food security and development. The event discusses how water can be an accelerator for development, peace, and security through climate adaptation.

Collaborative partnership on forests: Beyond carbon – realizing untapped potential of forests to combat climate change

Time: 15:15–16:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: UNEP Pavilion
Organizers: UN-REDD, FAO
Webcast: https://www.fao.org/collaborative-partnership-on-forests/meetings/beyond-carbon--realizing-untapped-potential-of-forests-to-combat-climate-change/en 

Forests offer more than carbon reduction for climate change. Beyond mitigating temperatures, they provide renewable materials, livelihoods, and jobs. Yet, climate policies have predominantly emphasized carbon storage in tropical forests. This event aims to spotlight the broader value of forests, emphasizing their productive functions, renewable materials, and green job potential.

Enhancing regional cooperation in Central Asia's agricultural sector to combat climate change impacts

Time: 15:00–16:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Central Asian Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

This event addresses the mounting climate challenges in Central Asia, fostering discussions and collaboration to bolster the sector's resilience. It will explore facets of climate-resilient agriculture, such as sustainable practices, climate-smart technologies, supportive policy frameworks, and community engagement. By showcasing successful initiatives from the region and beyond, the event aims to inspire action, advocate for policy reforms, and encourage widespread adoption of practices enhancing agricultural resilience.

Implementation Lab: Breakthrough innovation – climate-friendly food systems

Time: 15:30–16:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Al Shaheen (Lab 1)
Organizers: WWF, CGIAR, FAO

This event will center on policies and identifying investment opportunities to establish a conducive environment for key technology areas. The goal is to incentivize the shift toward sustainable agrifood systems, while also enhancing international climate finance to address global emissions, adaptation, resilience, and food security challenges.

Delivering on Glasgow: Halting and reversing forest loss by 2030

Time: 16:30–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Al Wahas Theatre 
Organizers: COP28 Presidency, Forest & Climate Leaders’ Partnership                                                                                            Website: https://www.cop28.com/schedule/delivering-on-glasgow-halting-and-reversing-forest-loss-by-2030

The objectives of this event are to renew the political commitment on water, food and climate,  discuss and co-create holistic water-food-climate solutions, and identify means to accelerate and scale-up of concrete actions, including financing. 

Unlocking quality climate finance for agrifood systems: The importance of addressing transparency

Time: 17:00–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: NDC Partnership Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, GEF, Mongolia, PATPA, Africa Climate Change Fund

The event explores the importance and impact of effective knowledge sharing and capacity building activities to enhance transparency, as a building block to ensuring climate investments for transformed agrifood systems.

From crisis to resilience: Addressing climate vulnerability and promoting peace in fragile context

Time: 17:00–18:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: ROK Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

The purpose of this seminar is to address and highlight the intricate relationship between climate risk and the future prospects of children and vulnerable communities. It brings together stakeholders, including experts, and community representatives, focused on understanding the challenges faced by communities and the opportunities to enhance climate resilience in fragile contexts.

Indigenous Peoples’ food systems as game-changers of sustainability and resilience

Time: 17:50–18:50 (GMT +4)
Venue: Indigenous Peoples’ Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

Considered some of the oldest and most sustainable on the planet, Indigenous Peoples’ food systems are intimately tied to nature and able to provide food and nutritional security while maintaining biodiversity and supporting climate resilience. Since its official endorsement at FAO COAG27 in 2020, the Global-Hub on Indigenous Peoples’ Food Systems has provided significant evidence on the sustainability and resilience of Indigenous Peoples’ food systems. The side-event will offer a review of the recent evidence available that has been put forward by the Global-Hub in favour of the preservation and the strengthening of Indigenous Peoples’ food systems worldwide.

High-level ministerial dialogue on building water-resilient food systems

Time: 9:00-10:30
Venue: Al Saih: Presidency Roundtable Room
Organizers: FAO, IFAD, UN-Water, UN-Nutrition, UN CEO Water Mandate; Countries: Brazil, Spain, United Arab Emirates; European Commission, OECD, African Union; IFPRI, Women for Water Partnership, Water Youth Network, IAAS, WFO, WASAG, World Bank, GCF, GEF tbc
Website: https://www.cop28.com/schedule/high-level-ministerial-dialogue-on-building-water-resilient-food-systems

The objectives of the event are to renew the political commitment on water, food and climate, discuss and co-create holistic water-food-climate solutions, and identify means to accelerate and scale-up concrete actions, including financing.

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I-CAN make a difference: Innovative solutions to address climate change and malnutrition

Develop desert economy for climate resilience

Time: 11:00–12:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: ADB Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

The climate-food-nature nexus approach offers a multifaceted solution to address challenges and generate numerous benefits. Sustainable development in desertification areas involves achieving economic, social, and environmental sustainability to protect and enhance ecosystems, meeting the local population's economic and social needs. This requires an integrated approach encompassing land conservation, water management, agricultural sustainability, renewable energy, technological innovation, social engagement, knowledge sharing, and other key efforts.

Outcomes of the UN Global Indigenous Youth Forum: Indigenous Youth as agents of change for climate resilience and sustainability

Time: 11:10–12:10 (GMT +4)
Venue: Indigenous Peoples’ Pavilion 
Organizers: Global Indigenous Youth Caucus (GIYC), FAO

On 16-20 October, 200 Indigenous youth from the 7 socio-cultural regions gathered in Rome to participate in the II Session of the Biennial United Nations Global Indigenous Youth Forum (UN GIYF). GIYF is the only UN high-level Indigenous forum where Indigenous Youth provide policy recommendations to policy-makers, research centres, UN Agencies and Indigenous Youth for the preservation and the strengthening of their food and knowledge systems. The side-event will present the outcomes of the Forum, and in particular the Final Declaration on Indigenous Peoples’ food and knowledge systems.

Moving from planning to implementation: solutions on how to accelerate transformative adaptation action in agrifood systems 

Time: 11:30–12:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO
Livestream: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/moving-from-planning-to-implementation-solutions-on-how-to-accelerate-transformative-adaptation-action-in-agrifood-systems/

FAO will provide a space for exchange on system-level approaches to adaptation in agrifood systems, highlighting country achievements on the journey from planning NAPs and NDCs to implementing transformative action. The event will launch FAO's latest collection of success stories on implementing solutions for climate change adaptation.

Using a multi-stakeholder approach to support community-led climate actions

Time: 11:30–13:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Kenya Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, Government of Kenya

During this multi-stakeholder forum the panelists will discuss the transformation of the agrifood value chain to build pathways to climate resilience, look at proven climate solutions and present how climate finance and technologies reach communities and how public investment can be leveraged.

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Implementing the Emirates Declaration on Resilient Food Systems, Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Action

Time: 11:30–13:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: WCAS Theatre
Organizers: COP28 Presidency

This event will offer an opportunity for countries to share experiences and build momentum for the two-year agenda outlined in the Emirates Declaration.

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Promoting equity in food systems: Investing in partnerships to combat climate change

Time: 12:00–13:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Zayed Sustainability Prize Pavilion, Energy Transition Hub, Green Zone
Organizers: FAO, GACSA

The objective of the event is to promote dialogue and collaboration among governments, international organizations, private sector entities, NGOs, and civil society to explore innovative investment strategies that can contribute to reducing disparities in food systems while combating the adverse effects of climate change.

Implementation Lab: Transforming aquatic food systems and protein transition

Time: 12:30–13:30  (GMT +4)
Venue:  Lab 2 (Al Jeer), Climate Action Zone
Organizers: FAO, UN Global Compact, SeaBOS, EDF/Aquatic Blue Food Coalition

This event looks at adaptation in aquatic food systems and the alternative protein sector, highlighting best practices and innovative options across the whole value chain. The objective is to raise awareness around non-state actor commitments and recent progress on ocean-based climate action.

Multilevel governance for climate, food, and biodiversity action

Time: 12:30–13:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: SDG Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, UN-Habitat

Live stream: https://www.un.org/en/COP28/SDGPavilion

This event will set the context for the discussions on climate, food, and biodiversity action and the role importance of multilevel governance and SDGs localization.

Launch of the Partnership on water-resilient food systems

Time: 13:00–14:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Water Pavilion
Organizers: COP28 Presidency, FAO, International Water Management Institute (IWMI)

This event will build on the COP28 Ministerial Dialogue on Building Water-Resilient Food Systems and present the objectives of a two-year partnership hosted by the UNFCCC’s Climate-Resilient Food Systems (CRFS) Alliance. Consisting of a group of international organizations working at the nexus of food and water systems worldwide, the partnership aims to leverage existing initiatives, projects and resources to support developing countries and non-state actors in delivering on their commitments.

Launch of the Quadripartite guide to implementing the One Health Joint Plan of Action

Time:  13:30 –14:45 (GMT +4)
Venue: Health Pavilion
Organizers: Joint Plan of Action (FAO, UNEP, WHO and WOAH)
Livestream: https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2023/11/30/default-calendar/cop28-health-pavilion
Website: https://www.fao.org/one-health/resources/events/events-detail/quadripartite-implementation-guide/en

The OH JPA outlines six action tracks for addressing key health challenges at the human–animal–plant–environment interface. Building on the Joint Plan of Action, the quadripartite collaboration has developed an Implementation Guide to provide countries with guidance on how to adopt and adapt the OH JPA through three pathways:  - Governance, policy, legislation, financing and advocacy; - Organizational and institutional development, implementation, and sectoral integration; - Data, evidence, information systems and knowledge exchange.

Energizing climate action with sustainable crops: How yerba mate, cocoa and peanut boost incomes and cut emissions 

Time: 14:00–15:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Zayed Sustainability Prize Pavilion, Energy Transition Hub, Green Zone
Organizer: FAO

Website: https://www.fao.org/gcf/news-and-events/events/en

This event will showcase how climate initiatives in Paraguay, Cote d’Ivoire and Uganda improve livelihoods, preserve Indigenous knowledge, halt deforestation, and increase climate resilience.

Forests for our common future: Halting and reversing deforestation by 2030

Time: 14:00–15:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Action Arena 1 (Al Hur)
Organizers: Collaborative Partnership on Forests (CPF), FAO

Website: https://www.fao.org/collaborative-partnership-on-forests/meetings/forests-for-our-common-future--halting-and-reversing-deforestation-by-2030/en

The CPF High-level Dialogue is an opportunity for UN leaders and other CPF members to share perspectives and outline actions to accelerate efforts in halting and reversing deforestation by 2030. The dialogue is also a chance to identify next steps in realizing the ambitions of the CPF, including through supporting countries in the implementation of their Nationally-determined Contributions.

High-level event: Inception meeting of the Food and Agriculture for Sustainable Transformation (FAST) Partnership

Time: 14:00–15:00  (GMT +4)
Venue: Al Saih: Presidency Roundtable Room
Organizers: FAO, COP28 Presidency, Government of Egypt

Live stream: https://www.fao.org/webcast/home/en/item/6419/icode/

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Integrating food and climate action in the LAC region

Time: 16:00–17:00  (GMT +4)
Venue: Panama Pavilion
Organizers: Ministry of Environment Panama in collaboration with the Climate Resilient Food Systems (CRFS) Alliance.

Climate Action in the FOLU sector: challenges for an architecture of support fit for rapid action and higher ambition

Time: 16:30–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Spain Pavilion
Organizers: Basque Centre for Climate Change (BC3) FAO

This event will reflect on the technical, political and financing challenges around the support mechanisms for climate action in the FOLU sector, and how to move towards a more effective and “fit-for-purpose” architecture of support for higher ambition and scaled-up action.

Adapting to change: climate change, human mobility and food security in the Near East and North Africa region  

Time: 16:30–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Climate Mobility Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

This side event will bring voices from the Near East and North Africa region to inform the global discussions on the climate change, human mobility and food security nexus. In particular, it will present the new FAO publication “Climate change, migration and rural adaptation in the Near East and North Africa region,” providing insights into how migration can contribute to climate adaptation and unpacking the complexity of the climate-migration-food security nexus in the region. The discussion will be inspired by the findings of the publication and illustrate examples of approaches, policies and projects that harness the contribution of migration to climate action while strengthening the resilience of rural households and agrifood systems to the impacts of climate change. Participants will showcase a diverse range of perspectives to collectively reflect on how to facilitate positive transformation towards more resilient, inclusive and sustainable futures in the context of climate mobility.

Promoting the declaration of 2028 as “Year of Saline Agriculture”: Climate resilient agriculture for sustainable production systems and healthy ecosystems in salt-affected areas   

Time: 18:00–19:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food Systems Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality of the Netherlands; WUR, ICBA, IVM, VU Amsterdam, Netherlands Food Partnership, Netherlands Water Partnership
Website: https://foodsystemspavilion.com/event/promoting-the-declaration-of-2028-as-year-of-saline-agriculture-climate-resilient-agriculture-for-sustainable-production-systems-and-healthy-ecosystems-in-salt-affected-areas/

This side event will bring voices from the Near East and North Africa region to inform the global discussions on the climate change, human mobility and food security nexus. In particular, it will present the new FAO publication “Climate change, migration and rural adaptation in the Near East and North Africa region,” providing insights into how migration can contribute to climate adaptation and unpacking the complexity of the climate-migration-food security nexus in the region. The discussion will be inspired by the findings of the publication and illustrate examples of approaches, policies and projects that harness the contribution of migration to climate action while strengthening the resilience of rural households and agrifood systems to the impacts of climate change. Participants will showcase a diverse range of perspectives to collectively reflect on how to facilitate positive transformation towards more resilient, inclusive and sustainable futures in the context of climate mobility.

Launch event of the publication “Integrated flood management for resilient agrifood systems and rural development

Time: 18:30–20:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Water Pavilion
Organizer: FAO

In this event, FAO will launch the publication, “Integrated flood management for resilient agrifood systems and rural development”.

Time: 10:30–11:15
Venue: UNEP Pavilion
Organizers: CBD Secretariat, UNEP-Ecosystems Division, UNEP-FI, UNEP-WCMC, FAO, UNDP, UNDRR                                     

Webcast: https://www.unep.org/unep-climate-cop28/pavilion#Mon11

The event demonstrates a united partnership between UN agencies to address biodiversity loss and climate change impacts, highlighting areas of collaboration that enable synergistic implementation of global frameworks at national level, and responding to the needs of countries and other stakeholders. 

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Youth in smallholder agriculture – accelerating climate adaptation

Time: 11:30-13:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: SE Room 2
Organizers: Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens, FAO, CGIAR

This multistakeholder dialogue addresses the biggest challenges that smallholder African youth are facing in adapting to climate change. Global leaders and young African agripreneurs will share perspectives on innovative & just solutions in their local communities.

Synergizing agrifood systems transformation and climate action

Time: 12:00-13:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Nordic Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, COP28 Presidency, Nordic Council of Ministers      

Live steam: https://pub.norden.org/cop28/-december-11-what-is-next-.html

The intersection of climate change and food systems underscores the need for coordinated global initiatives efforts. The UN Secretary-General has urged leaders to integrate food systems strategies into their national policies, aligning them with climate action and nature preservation. This event aims to explore and present innovative approaches and strategies that synergize food systems and climate actions, aiming to expedite progress towards Agenda 2023.

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Restoring mountain ecosystems – International Mountain Day 2023

Time: 14:00–15:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO, Mountain Partnership

Live stream: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/restoring-mountain-ecosystems-international-mountain-day-2023/

International Mountain Day 2023 calls for nature-positive solutions, best practices and investments that build resilience, reduce vulnerability and increase the ability of mountains to adapt to daily threats and extreme climatic events. This event presents a range of perspectives on addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem degradation.

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Financing nutrition for a healthier climate: the power of sustainable diets

Time: 17:00–18:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: Rockefeller Foundation, FAO, WHO

Live stream: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/financing-nutrition-for-a-healthier-climate-the-power-of-sustainable-diets/

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PLACA's dynamic role as a mechanism for voluntary regional agriculture and climate collaboration in Latin America and the Caribbean

Time: 18:30–19:30 (GMT +4)
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO

Climate resilient and sustainable policies and practices to empower women and young farmers

Time: 11:00-12:00
Venue: Food and Agriculture Pavilion
Organizers: FAO
Livestream: https://foodpavilion.org/blog/programme/climate-resilient-and-sustainable-policies-and-practices-to-empower-women-and-young-farmers/

This event provides a space to discuss examples of participatory approaches that empower farmers, in particular women and youth, to share their knowledge and build the ecological literacy they need to adapt to and mitigate climate change.

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Agrifood system solutions are climate solutions

Time: 11:30–13:00 (GMT +4)
Venue: Italian Pavilion (Blue zone)
Organizers: FAO,  UNDP, Youth4Climate, MASE
Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/@MinAmbienteSicurezzaEnergetica/streams 

This round table between political, technical and youth representatives showcases on-going actions to support the implementation of climate actions at global, national and local level.