The COP29 climate summit in Baku has seen diminished focus on agriculture, as the recent U.S. election undercuts momentum towards sustainable food systems. Experts express concern that crucial discussions on methane emissions from agricultural sources are sidelined, with many looking towards future COPs for real progress amid rising global hunger and environmental crises.
In Baku, Azerbaijan, the COP29 climate summit has drawn thousands of delegates, all eager to tackle pressing issues surrounding food systems and agriculture. Experts had anticipated significant progress on mitigating methane emissions from food production, but the outcome of the recent U.S. election has cast a shadow over their aspirations. Claudia Ringler of CGIAR expressed her dismay, stating that the incoming Trump presidency has drastically lowered her expectations for meaningful agreements during the summit, warning that hopes for a serious breakthrough in agricultural discussions are “extremely bleak.” Food systems contribute to roughly one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from livestock, which emits potent methane as part of their digestion. The stakes are incredibly high as around 733 million people faced hunger last year, many of whom rely on agriculture-based economies. Experts at the conference initially hoped for regulatory action on methane, with nearly 160 countries pledging to cut emissions significantly by 2030. However, the focus has predominantly shifted to oil, gas, and landfill sectors, leaving agriculture in the lurch. Claudia Ringler explained, “Things look very bad for agriculture and agrifood systems,” and the historic deadlock on agricultural emissions continues, highlighting the struggle between climate goals and food production. While the new Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers promises to unify efforts and finance agricultural coalitions, skepticism remains about its potential impact, with many believing it is merely superficial. Contrastingly, Martin Frick of the World Food Programme noted a sense of urgency emerging from the recent political changes in the U.S., suggesting they might expedite action on related issues, indirectly aiding food system decarbonization. Yet, the diminished presence of U.S. leadership at the conference and the absence of pivotal world leaders raise further doubts about reaching ambitious commitments. Elodie Guillon from World Animal Protection expressed cautious optimism, hoping for decisive clarity on existing agreements regarding emissions reductions from food systems—anticipating that the next COP in Brazil might hold the real opportunities for decisive action. Meanwhile, Stephanie Feldstein from the Center for Biological Diversity recognized the potential for a silver lining amidst these challenges, positing that if the U.S. withdraws from the Paris Agreement again, other nations could step forward, paving the way for serious discussions about mitigating emissions from animal agriculture. Thus, while uncertainty looms over COP29, the drive for sustainable food systems fuels a global movement determined to persevere against the odds, irrespective of political shifts.
The article discusses the recent COP29 climate summit held in Baku, Azerbaijan, focusing on the inadequate emphasis placed on food systems in light of significant agricultural emissions and a global hunger crisis. It highlights how recent U.S. political developments, particularly the return of Trump, affect the prospects for crucial agreements on agricultural emissions and methane reductions at the conference. Several key players in food policy express their doubts and hopes about achieving meaningful outcomes and the continued importance of addressing agricultural emissions amidst rising global temperatures and food insecurity.
In summary, COP29’s focus on agriculture and food systems is overshadowed by the implications of the U.S. election results, with experts fearing a regression in progress. While there are hopes for future conferences like COP30 to drive real change, the immediate outlook remains grim, particularly in the realm of agricultural emissions regulation. The discussions reflect a broader struggle between advancing climate goals and ensuring food security, with an underlying determination within the global community to push for sustainable practices despite the challenges.
Original Source: grist.org
