Agriculture is taking a prominent role at the Conference of the Parties (COP29), marking a significant shift in how climate change conferences approach the subject of food systems and farming.

With more than 40 dedicated events at the Food & Agriculture pavilion, this year’s conference underscores the critical role agriculture plays as a key component in the solution.

 “A total of 44 events will be hosted at the pavilion, with 28 being CGIAR-led and 16 partner-led events. These will include sharing efforts to drive adaptation and reduce emissions across food, land, and water systems to ensure food, nutrition, and water security for the most affected small-scale producers and food-insecure communities,” says Gina Edward-Uwadiale from Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centres (CGIAR).

This new-found recognition is a clear indication that the importance of sustainable food systems and resilient agricultural practices is being deservedly prioritised in climate discussions.

The events at the pavilion are set to cover a range of issues, from climate-smart farming technologies to policy frameworks that support sustainable agriculture and farmer adaptation to changing climates.

Importantly, the events will emphasise the importance of ensuring that smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of agriculture in many regions, have access to the resources, technologies, and knowledge necessary to implement these strategies effectively.

“By dedicating more space and discussions to agriculture, world leaders and experts are signalling that food systems need to be part of the solution, not just part of the problem,” Gina adds.

Historically, climate conferences have focused heavily on energy, industry and carbon emissions, often leaving agriculture in the background.

Other than the profound effects of climate conditions on food production, the old approach also overlooks the fact that agriculture contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.

The CoP is a significant global summit that convenes world leaders, policymakers, climate experts, activists and other stakeholders to deliberate and negotiate international climate policies and actions. This year’s conference, CoP 29, is being held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22.

Dubbed the “Finance COP,” this year’s summit has placed a strong emphasis on climate finance.