Agrifood systems are facing unprecedented pressures and must be transformed to keep pace with changes in climate and demography. In many cases it is the agrifood systems of some of the most vulnerable communities living in marginal environments that are under the most severe pressures. These agrifood systems often represent the sole means of livelihood for many disadvantaged and vulnerable communities.
The FAO Science and Innovation Forum will emphasize the role that science, technology and innovation (STI) can play in the necessary transformation of such agrifood systems.
Agrifood systems are facing unprecedented pressures and must be transformed to keep pace with changes in climate and demography. In many cases it is the agrifood systems of some of the most vulnerable communities living in marginal environments that are under the most severe pressures. These agrifood systems often represent the sole means of livelihood for many disadvantaged and vulnerable communities. The FAO Science and Innovation Forum will emphasize the role that science, technology and innovation (STI) can play in the necessary transformation of such agrifood systems.
Over five days at the FAO headquarters, key stakeholders, particularly representatives from low- and middle-income countries, will discuss the important issues that need to be addressed if agrifood systems are to be successfully transformed. The attendees will participate in roundtables and panel discussions, using various interactive formats. The Forum will be preceded by independently organized side-events, with partners showcasing their innovations and insights.
The Science and Innovation Forum will build on the success of the Science Days for the UN Food Systems Summit 2021, hosted by FAO, which attracted over 2 000 participants from research, policy, civil society and industry. Results from the Science Days discussions were published in a report that emphasized the opportunities for investments in science for transforming agrifood systems.
2007, Afghanistan - Variety and Seed Industry Development Project - GCP/AFG/045/EC. © FAO/Giulio Napolitano
03 February 2021, Al Wathba, United Arab Emirates - Emirate Fish Farm technicians monitoring the growth of this zooplankton species in tanks, using latest video-microscope technology. © FAO/FameMedia
The objectives of the FAO Science and Innovation Forum will be to:
- Share robust science and evidence-based options for more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems.
- Assist countries in making informed decisions regarding the co-creation, adaptation and adoption of appropriate and context-specific technologies and innovations.
- Explore scientific and technological advances and associated risks and opportunities.
- Promote effective science communication, including by engaging on contentious issues.
- Analyze options for strengthening science and evidence-based decision-making.
Harnessing STI is crucial for creating a world free from poverty, hunger and malnutrition. To forge the FAO initiatives into a coherent framework, and to develop new initiatives, FAO has developed a Science and Innovation Strategy, which will strengthen the application of science and innovation in FAO’s technical interventions and normative guidance and will be important in implementation of the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31.
Science and innovation underpin FAO’s vision of leaving no one behind through more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, which will promote better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all.