Ideas from the Speakers
Food security is much more than just calories. The real issue is the way these calories are produced. Historically, industrial agriculture has been dysfunctional and unnatural; pesticides, over farming, monoculture, and overfertilization have actively reduced biodiversity and degraded soil. This decreases agricultural profits and productivity worldwide, with negative consequences for both the planet and people. Moreover, biodiversity loss and climate change are intrinsically linked to our food production and, therefore, to our security. This session featured experts from three innovative companies aiming to promote food security through new technology and careful applications of existing knowledge. The session focused on progress and systemic changes that need to be made in the entire food supply chain.
The discussion centered on three projects. The first focused on the importance of understanding the biological component of soil health—the complex food web of microorganisms upon which all above-ground biodiversity relies. Farms, a microcosm of the planet, are complex ecosystems that rely on the symbiosis of humans and crops. Like an ecosystem, healthy farms need diversity to remain resilient. Therefore, increasing soil health means increasing the resilience of the farm ecosystem. The conversation then moved to the importance of non-technical innovations, such as using reforestation to restore soil health and prevent degradation. The speaker pointed out that innovation does not have to only mean technology—that which already exists, and works must be valued as well. Healthy farming practices and regenerative agriculture can sequester carbon and ultimately become more profitable than harmful practices that may seem simpler or easier at face value. In addition, produce must be traceable and transparent to empower consumers to push for change from the bottom up. The final discussion concerned using technology to adapt and promote agriculture in dry environments, decreasing migration, and empowering rural communities.
The speakers also highlighted the importance of communicating with farmers and the power of consumers to make change. Impactful systems change for food security will rely on policy change, multiactor global alliances, and the encouragement of sustainable entrepreneurship.
Insights from the Audience
The audience discussed how to improve food security and encourage entrepreneurship, with thoughtful conclusions reached by all groups. The main topics were the definition of food security, the flaws of the monoculture model and reasons for its persistence, food waste and attitudes towards food, and supply chain change.
Firstly, food security also relies on food sovereignty. Global competition over food security encourages unsustainable practices; thus, emphasis should be placed on collaboration and cooperation.
Secondly, moving away from monoculture and an emphasis on food production as a commodity for export is difficult due to economic and social stigmas. Scientists, governments, and entrepreneurs must work to show farmers that introducing complexities (such as intercropping, regenerative agriculture, or agroforestry) into their business models may help build resilience and increase productivity rather than harm their business or be hindrances.
Thirdly, roughly 60% of smallholder farmers do not reach the market. Regulations need to change to decrease food waste and ensure that the food produced can reach the market. Moreover, there is very little diversity in agriculture—the world’s food supply depends heavily on fewer than 200 plant species, rendering it vulnerable to insecurity and global environmental change. In addition, processed food and fast-food chains reinforce unhealthy practices and a lack of diversity. We must therefore be mindful of what and how we consume for our own health and happiness, that of others, and the planet.
Finally, reform must occur in the entire food supply chain; food security and sustainability must be seen as a must-have rather than a nice-to-have. This push must come partially from consumers, and from ending a cycle of harmful investment and subsidies. Smart legislation and equity are needed throughout the food supply chain, focusing not just on developing countries but also on the whole world.
Overall, entrepreneurship and the global realization that food security is fundamental mean that we are on the right track. Attitudes towards food production and consumption across the entire supply chain still need to change, but with continued innovation we have the foundations of a solution.
