During the opening plenary of the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM for Climate) Summit, co-hosted by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, it was announced that there would be a boost in global investment and support for innovative climate-smart agriculture and food systems.
Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Minister of Climate Change and Environment, reaffirmed the importance of fortifying national and global food security through sustainable technology and innovation. This initiative forms a core strategic pillar of the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051.
AIM for Climate, a joint initiative led by the UAE and the United States, was launched during the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November 2021. Its vision is to stimulate innovative solutions to combat climate change while ensuring food security.
The Summit’s opening saw Vilsack, former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, and Minister Almheiri sharing the stage.
During the opening plenary, Secretary Vilsack also announced the release of the “USDA Science and Research Strategy, 2023-2026: Cultivating Scientific Innovation.” This strategy is designed to guide USDA’s science priorities over the next three years, providing a scientific framework to revolutionize the U.S. food system and support the nation’s farmers, ranchers, producers, and foresters.
Building on the announcement made at COP27 to inaugurate an International Climate Hub, and Secretary Vilsack launched the Hub’s website. The new portal facilitates science-based, climate-informed agricultural decision-making by providing information and resources tailored to specific regional needs. The focus will be on countries and producers most affected by global climate change.
An integral feature of the International Climate Hub, the COMET-Planner Global Assessment Tool, will allow land managers worldwide to estimate the present and potential greenhouse gas mitigation and carbon sequestration benefits of standard agricultural conservation practices.
In a unique twist, the Summit’s opening-day lunch session delved into the potential impacts of climate change on the availability of popular foods. Former White House Chef Sam Kass curated this enlightening session.
Diane Holdorf, Executive Vice President of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, led a panel discussion with the CEOs of ADM, Gro Intelligence, PepsiCo, and Planet FWD. The conversation centered on the role of agri-business in driving credible climate action in preparation for COP28.
As the AIM for Climate Summit progresses, the world eagerly awaits, hoping for sustainable solutions that ensure food security while effectively addressing climate change.
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