Generated Summary
This is a review article that explores the role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in transforming food systems globally, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The study synthesizes evidence from the scientific literature and draws on the work of the InterAcademy Partnership (IAP) and other sources. It focuses on how to make food systems more healthy, sustainable, and equitable. The review analyzes the challenges and opportunities of food systems transformation, with a focus on innovations in agriculture, including genetic engineering, digital technologies, and policy interventions. The report also assesses the costs and benefits of different policy options.
Key Findings & Statistics
- The number of people facing hunger in the world is estimated to be between 720 and 811 million (FAO et al. 2021).
- The review focuses on how to transform food systems to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Sustainable Food Production) and 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
- Climate change is projected to increase global cereal prices by between 1% to 29%, depending on the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) considered.
- The study highlights the importance of increasing agricultural production and productivity, especially for vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
- A key area of focus is the role of innovation in helping smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable practices.
Other Important Findings
- The study emphasizes the need for governments to adopt policies that incentivize innovation, regulate the food system, and support sustainable food practices.
- The report discusses the challenges of climate change, land degradation, and the need to reduce food loss and waste.
- The study highlights the importance of scientific research, technology, and innovation in achieving food security and nutrition and discusses policies, programs and institutional factors for food system transformation.
Limitations Noted in the Document
- The review acknowledges that its cost assessments and rankings of interventions are subject to uncertainty.
- The study acknowledges that some of the interventions may have unintended consequences.
- The primary focus is on agriculture and food systems, with less emphasis on the social costs and impacts.
- The review is limited to the focus area of the study and may not provide a complete picture of the whole food system.
Conclusion
The review makes the following conclusions:
- The role of science, technology, and innovation is crucial in transforming food systems towards sustainability, better health, and food security.
- Action at the global, national, and local levels is required, with a focus on the role of governments, the private sector, and civil society.
- A shift toward diversified production systems, with an emphasis on local knowledge and context-specific solutions, is essential.
- The study emphasizes the importance of policy coherence and the need to address trade-offs in order to maximize the impact of interventions.
- Investing in scientific research, technology, and innovation will be essential to create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient food system.