Innovation, digitalization and resilience in agrifood systems are key for Europe and Central Asia

Today, during the second day of the Thirty-fourth Session of the Regional Conference for Europe (ERC), ministers of agriculture from the Europe and Central Asia region explored the role of innovation and digitalization in the sustainable use of natural resources and reviewed the response of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to the multiple crises in Europe and Central Asia.

Hosted this time by the Republic of Moldova, the ERC is the main FAO decision-making body for its Europe and Central Asia region, featuring ministerial round-table discussions and side events on current challenges and opportunities for food and agriculture. The conference is taking place at FAO headquarters in Rome and can be followed online through a live webcast.

The power of innovation and digitalization

Natural resources critical to food and agriculture are at risk of depletion and degradation, and agrifood systems need to become more resilient than ever in the face of diverse challenges, including the changing climate.

FAO recognizes the importance of innovation and digitalization to a sustainable food future. Not only can they help decrease emissions, but they also have much to contribute to enhancing resource efficiency, monitoring climate change and the use of resources, improving climate resilience, and enhancing and protecting carbon sinks and carbon sequestration.

Today’s ministerial round table examined the role of innovation and digitalization in advancing climate-resilient and low-emission pathways within the region’s agrifood systems, paying special attention to sustainable natural resource management. Members explored existing solutions and innovations applied in the region and looked at the challenges and risks associated with their adoption.

Countries were encouraged to create an enabling environment for innovation and digitalization in natural resource management and climate action and ensure access for smallholders and family farmers. Unleashing the full potential of innovation and digitalization will require added investment in digital public infrastructure, the development of institutional and human capacities, and the implementation of incentive structures and support mechanisms. Additionally, the capacities of agricultural innovation systems should be further developed to bridge the gaps among scientific advancements and innovative technologies, ensure the sustainable adoption of technology, and encourage research and development in climate-smart technologies.

FAO stands ready to lead intersectoral collaboration for the improved governance of natural resources for an innovation-friendly environment – emphasizing sustainable and inclusive technologies that leave no one behind – and accelerate the implementation of relevant flagship initiatives, such as the Digital Village Initiative. In line with its corporate strategies, including the Strategy on Climate Change 2022–2031, the Organization will expand climate action support for resilience, adaptation and emissions reduction.

Responding to the recent crises

Several shocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and adverse weather events and earthquakes, as well as climate change have significantly affected the food, energy and finance sectors in Europe and Central Asia.

Another ministerial session of the Regional Conference analysed the impacts of these shocks on food market prices, trade, crop production, livestock and vulnerable households. Participants looked at the intricate factors contributing to crises and explored FAO’s responses.

They also discussed global and regional efforts to mitigate consequences for food inflation, trade, agricultural production, food security and access to healthy diets for vulnerable populations and agreed on the need to increase the resilience, efficiency and transparency of agrifood trade and markets and support resilience of vulnerable groups.

The productivity and resilience of agrifood systems should be enhanced through responsible investments in agriculture. The role of science, innovation and digitalization in the agriculture sector should be improved, as should the role of veterinary services and livestock disease surveillance systems. Updated national food security strategies can help address short-term shocks and ensure a resilient recovery.

The Thirty-fourth Session of the Regional Conference for Europe continues through Friday, 17 May.