Shaping the Sustainable Agrifood Futures

The report Shaping the Sustainable Agrifood Futures: Pre-emerging and Emerging Technologies and Innovations for Impact published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and CIRAD (International Cooperation Centre of Agricultural Research for Development) in October 2024 provides analysis of promising pre-emerging and emerging technologies and innovations (PETIAS) and explores how they can help address the challenges facing global agrifood systems.

The study highlights the crucial role of science, technology and innovation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It presents a detailed look at 20 selected technologies and innovations, organised into seven clusters, such as advanced biotechnologies, digital technologies and frugal innovations. The report also delves into 10 emerging innovation fields, including vertical farming, precision agrifood systems and circular agriculture.

The list of pre-emerging and emerging technologies and innovations mentioned in the report spans a broad spectrum, intentionally encompassing both singular technologies with disruptive potential, like 3D food printing, and expansive clusters of interrelated innovations, such as nature-based and frugal innovations. This diversity reflects the multifaceted nature of the agrifood sector and the varied pathways through which transformative change can emerge.

Key findings from the report emphasise that no single technology can address the full range of challenges ahead. Instead, the most promising solutions will emerge from tailored combinations of technologies, adapted to regional and local contexts. This report stresses the importance of co-innovation, participatory governance, and strategic investments in human and social capital to maximise impact.

The report also identifies eight key global challenges – ranging from food and nutrition security to climate change – and outlines five key transformation areas to help achieve a preferred future for agrifood systems. These include governance, ethical considerations, and fostering systemic change.

(CIRAD/FAO/ile)

Read more and download the report