Global food security must be part of the COP26 conversation

Food security is a vital factor to consider in the climate crisis narrative, and one that should be prioritised during the COP26 summit, says GlobalData. The leading data and analytics company notes that, following UN General Secretary António Guterres’ opening speech on how extreme weather is unproportionally impacting many developing nations, it is imperative that global leaders focus on impartial and transparent trade and policies to build a more resilient global food system, and this sentiment is shared by the public.

A recent consumer survey conducted by GlobalData reveals that food security is extremely important for 43% of people around the world (Q3 2021). This surpasses half the population for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South America, while developed regions – namely North America and Europe – report lower concern levels.

Carmen Bryan, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Countries on and around the equator are subject to some of the harshest extremes in climate change and weather patterns. This, combined with more fragile infrastructure, has negatively impacted food systems as well as economic growth. Given that many of these countries are also key agricultural and manufacturing markets, a break in supply here will impact the global food system and economy, leading to commodity shortages and price hikes – much like what we have seen during COVID-19 the pandemic.”

The COVID-19 health crisis has shone a spotlight on food security and poverty, with global hunger levels reaching approximately 9.9% of the world population (768 million people) in 2020 according to the UN**. The pandemic also highlighted brand activity, with corporate social responsibility (CSR) becoming a key theme last year. In fact, as of September this year, more than half of global consumers agree that they are somewhat or completely more loyal to brands that support environmental (56%) or social (54%) causes. Similar to food security, regions characterised with more developing nations show higher commitment to these causes.

Bryan continues: “Brands that actively and transparently demonstrate their efforts to revaluate their supply chain and innovate in new ingredients will benefit from sustained consumer interest and repeat buys. Food and beverage (F&B) sectors will need to implement practical measures in line with government guidance in order to safeguard both their reputation and long-term viability of supply. Diversifying products, either into new alternative food sources or alternating between seasonal foods, can help brands adapt to and withstand changing weather cycles.”

Vertical farming offers opportunities for import reliant nations such as Singapore or Hong Kong to localise their agriculture and increase self-sufficiency, while upcycling by-products from traditional production methods can prove a cost-effective and efficient new revenue source that simultaneously cuts down on food waste. There is also ongoing research into cultivating climate resistant wheat and barley, which could help to future-proof the cereals industry against extreme heats.

Bryan adds: “There is no one-size-fits-all solution to climate change or subsequent food poverty. Food security is an inevitable issue, and one with tangible solutions. However, it will take collaboration from governments, industry players, and authorities from external bodies to see COP26’s ambitious goals reached, and the global food systems reinforced and protected.”

 

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