In June 2011, the Meridian Institute published a scoping report which provided an analysis of the complex issues relating to agriculture and climate change. In November, the institute released a summary version, entitled ‘Agriculture and Climate Change Policy Brief: Main Issues for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Beyond’.
This summary report argues that agriculture is different from other sectors of society and economy when considered in the context of climate change. It points out that agriculture is essential for food security and income generation, affects critical ecosystem services and also holds potential for contributing to GHG mitigation. In light of these multiple contributions and unique features, it suggests that agriculture would benefit from distinct treatment in the context of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
The report recommends that actions need to be taken in the agricultural sector, in relation to the need to, provide adequate food for growing populations to protecting the environment, and ensure resilience to future climatic changes.
It identifies that finance, technology and capacity are essential to enable effective adaptation and to motivate emission reductions from the agricultural sector. Finally, it recognises that adopting new agricultural practices requires access to new technologies; modification of existing ones; and additional capacity at the farm, policy, and scientific levels to implement such measures.
The report can be read here.
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