We have to maintain the momentum gained at COP26 and translate commitments into action – making climate-resilient, sustainable agriculture the most attractive and widely adopted option for farmers everywhere by 2030.’
UK Minister for Agri-innovation and Climate Adaptation, Jo Churchill, has used a visit to the United Arab Emirates to set out the UK Government’s ambition to boost innovation and technology in agriculture.
Speaking at the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate First Ministerial Meeting, as well as the Food for Future Summit, both held during February in Dubai, Churchill outlined the need to unlock investment and partnerships to boost innovation to support farmers and growers. The Minister also highlighted the importance of new technologies to advance sustainable food production, particularly as global demand for food is predicted to rise by 40% by 2030.
Churchill commented; ‘Action this decade is paramount. We have to maintain the momentum gained at COP26 and translate commitments into action – making climate-resilient, sustainable agriculture the most attractive and widely adopted option for farmers everywhere by 2030.’
During COP26, the UK Government announced the formation of the Gilbert Initiative; which is focused on coordinating investments in evidence generation, technology development and delivery to support a food system which, by 2030, needs to feed nine billion people with nutritious safe food. In addition it will need to use environmental resources sustainably; enhance resilience and adaptation to climate change and generate inclusive growth and jobs.
The Gilbert Initiative is a cross-Government commitment supported by several departments including the department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy; UK Research and Innovation; and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. In addition, the UK Government’s Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs has established funds to support investment in agricultural technology and innovation.
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