Summary:

The Supply Chain Dialogues this time are about the critical importance of sustainable agriculture, addressing challenges faced by smallholder farmers, who take care of 30% of our world’s food supply.

Daniel Helmig and Dr Yuan Zhou, Head of Agricultural Policy and China Program of the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture, discuss the significance of climate-smart practices, key innovations in agricultural technology, projects promoting sustainability, and the role of education and policy interventions. Dr Zhou explains the need for comprehensive climate policies, financial incentives, and emerging trends and technologies to transform global agricultural practices for a more sustainable future.

Main Takeaways:

1. The podcast interview discussed the importance of agriculture, food security, and climate change impacts on global food systems.

2. Smallholder farmers contribute significantly (30%) to the global food supply but face dangerous challenges like climate change volatile weather conditions and aggravated through unsustainable practices.

3. Focus on enhancing resilience, reducing the negative impacts of climate change, and maintaining productivity for smallholder farmers.

4. Climate-resilient crop varieties, precision agriculture, micro-irrigation systems, and digital agriculture are highlighted for smallholder farmers.

5. To accelerate the transition to sustainable farming systems, regenerative agricultural practices, circular economy principles, and policy interventions are emphasised.

6. The role of education, agri-entrepreneur programs, and engaging women farmers and youth in promoting sustainable practices are discussed.

7. Any company can engage with the agricultural community to mitigate GHG emissions and secure our long-term food supply. Done strategically, this can also contribute to the firm’s GHG net zero performance.