Climate-Smart Agriculture: Shaping the Conversation at AFSF 2024

CSA is an approach that guides the changes of agricultural food systems, given the need to jointly address food and climate change. Over the years, agricultural innovations have had the same aim that CSA seems to achieve: food security, with innovations ranging from mechanization in agriculture, genetic engineering, drone use and artificial intelligence.

The transition from conventional to sustainable farming happens against growing concerns over changing climate patterns, environmental sustainability, and a steadily growing population. The Alliance has been working on the transformation of food systems through research-based solutions that harness agricultural biodiversity to improve people’s lives. One course of action is CSA to increase agricultural productivity and incomes, adapt and build resilience to climate change, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This holistic approach integrates various practices and technologies to create farming systems that are both productive and sustainable; by adopting CSA, farmers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. For instance, techniques such as conservation tillage, crop rotation, and integrated pest management not only enhance soil health and productivity, but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, CSA promotes the use of renewable energy sources and efficient water management systems, further contributing to climate mitigation efforts. The integration of agroforestry – where trees are grown alongside crops – also plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, helping to offset emissions