The effect of climate change across food systems: Implications for nutrition outcomes 2024-09-30

Abstract​

The increasing global demand for animal-source foods (ASF) poses significant challenges and opportunities for sustainable food systems. This paper examines the manifold impacts of ASF consumption, including the projected 80% rise in agricultural greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe) by 2050 and the associated health risks of overconsumption in wealthier countries. The authors propose climate-smart, nutrition-sensitive strategies to mitigate these effects, emphasizing the "triple-win" approach: enhancing food productivity, reducing GHGe, and improving climate resilience in vulnerable populations. Key interventions include promoting nutrient-rich crops, minimizing food waste, and adopting gender-sensitive agricultural practices. We highlight the need for improving livestock productivity while reducing environmental impacts, and stress the importance of equitable access to ASF for nutritionally vulnerable groups. Their findings underscore the necessity of integrated, sustainable development strategies that align with the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement, advocating for systemic changes across the food supply chain to ensure both human health and environmental sustainability.

Snippets​

Citation​

Fanzo, J., Davis, C., McLaren, R., & Choufani, J. (2018). The effect of climate change across food systems: Implications for nutrition outcomes. Global Food Security, 18, 12–19. doi:10.1016/j.gfs.2018.06.001