Every Week, A Roundup of Climate and Food News
I share my excitement every week about the news that inspires, frustrates, or intrigues me. This week, I'm writing to you from Antalya, Türkiye, where COP31 has kicked off. I'm heartened to see food, agriculture, and health at the forefront of discussions on the first day of the UN Climate Change Conference.
COP31 President Murat Kurum emphasized the connection between climate and food security in his opening remarks: “Climate shapes our food supply.” I agree, and I'm eager to see meaningful investments in food systems, not just more talk. Farmers need resources, and the stakes are high.
A recent report from the World Meteorological Organization warns that 2026 could be one of the four hottest years on record, with El Niño intensifying droughts, floods, and extreme heat. The World Food Programme predicts that El Niño could push 49 million people into acute food insecurity by 2027.
Predictably, these disasters can be averted with early warning systems and preparation. We can't wait until people are already suffering.
Gender Equality in Climate Finance: A Frustrating Picture
At COP31, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) released The Unfunded Half, a report that paints a concerning picture. Only 3% of international public climate finance for agrifood systems prioritizes gender equality.
While women are vital to food production, they face significant barriers to accessing land, credit, and other resources. However, there's a glimmer of hope: IFAD announced a $70 million adaptation bond focused on rural communities, with gender targets built into its lending.
Global Food Prices: A Mixed Picture
According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, global food prices slightly declined in October, but they remain 6% higher than a year ago. Lower international prices don't always translate to lower costs at the grocery store.
Food is Medicine: Rigorous Research is Key
A peer-reviewed study published in Nature Communications offers insights into the Food is Medicine movement. The research found that all types of food support improved food security, diet quality, and health perception, but more specialized interventions didn't necessarily outperform regular pantry support.
This highlights the need for more rigorous research to understand which approaches work best and for whom. Access to food is a fundamental human right, and understanding its impact is crucial.
Support for Organic Agriculture
The US Department of Agriculture announced $66.8 million in grants for 35 organic agriculture research and extension projects. I'm pleased to see increased investment in agricultural research, especially for resilience, improved practices, and profitability.
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Photo courtesy of Deepak Kumar, Unsplash