By Bisola Adeyemo
Human lives depend on the food we choose and the way we process it makes us an integral and active part of how an agri-food system works.
A sustainable agri-food system is one in which a variety of sufficient, nutritious ,and safe foods is available at an affordable price to everyone, yet most people can not afford it.
According to Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), “Agri-food systems employ 1 billion people worldwide, more than any other economic sector. Moreover, the way we produce, consume and, sadly, waste food exacts a heavy toll on our planet, putting unnecessary pressure on natural resources, the environment and climate.”
There are numerous factors that challenge food production. The climate, topography and soil variations within biomes may be challenging for growing food, but the way people change the environment can also have an impact on food production.
“Food production too often degrades or destroys natural habitats and contributes to species extinction. Such inefficiency, is costing us trillions of dollars, but, most importantly, today’s agri-food systems are exposing profound inequalities and injustices in our global society.
Three billion people cannot afford healthy diets, while overweight and obesity continue to increase worldwide.
The COVID-19 pandemic has underlined that an urgent change of route is needed. It has made it even harder for farmers – already grappling with climate variability and extremes – to sell their harvests, while rising poverty is pushing an increased number of city residents to use food banks, and millions of people require emergency food aid.
“We need sustainable agri-food systems that are capable of nourishing 10 billion people by 2050.” FAO added.
“Around 14% of the world’s food is lost before it reaches the market. Governments can invest in storage facilities, roads, markets and market information systems to minimize post-harvest food loss.
About 14% of the world’s food is lost due to inadequate harvesting, handling, transportation and storage.
“Governments need to build cities that boost rural-urban ties, promote urban agriculture and biodiversity, host wide green spaces, and offer fresh food markets while reducing food waste.
World Food Day is celebrated annually on 16 October to promote global awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger, and to highlight the need to ensure healthy diets for all.
Also, a day to promote worldwide awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger and for the need to ensure healthy diets for all.
The theme for this year revolving around agriculture, food, and investments to increase production of food products.