The outcomes of the 2024 Rio Convention COPs underscore the necessity to enhance and utilize synergies among the Conventions. Agroecology is a promising approach that simultaneously contributes to the goals of the UNFCCC, CBD, and UNCCD. By adopting a systemic approach to food system transformation based on agroecological principles, countries can achieve multiple socio-ecological and economic benefits while fulfilling their commitments to the Rio Conventions.
At the COP level, there are significant entry points for strengthening agroecology within the negotiation processes of the three Conventions. These include indicators under the GBF Monitoring Framework for the CBD, the UNFCCC Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), and practical approaches to implement the UNCCD Strategic Objectives, as well as processes involving Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLC), especially under the CBD and UNCCD. Additional opportunities may arise to foster agroecological approaches within various COP initiatives on food systems.
The policy brief presents six concrete recommendations to leverage partnerships and collaborative efforts to anchor agroecology within the Conventions. Strengthening agroecological approaches in national policies and implementations will generate further evidence for agroecology and simultaneously contribute to the mobilization of funding. This includes fostering an inclusive multi-stakeholder approach to ensure the participation of underrepresented communities, women, IPLC, youth, smallholder farmers and pastoralists in these processes.
