Investing in a sustainable future for our planet
The theme for Earth Day 2022 was is “invest in our planet.” If we want to create a sustainable future, it is imperative that we invest in sustainability in the agricultural sector. In this article, we will share ways to support agricultural sustainability for stakeholders along the value chain, as well as those working on the supply and the demand sides.
The importance of agricultural sustainability
Agriculture is essential to human survival. With the world population projected to increase to nearly 10 billion by 2050, it is crucial that we work effectively in agriculture to produce enough food to feed everyone. However, it is not enough to simply produce more food; we need to do so in a way that will not compromise future yields. To do this, it is essential that we focus on agricultural sustainability. Agricultural sustainability can mitigate risks to food security while also protecting our planet and resources for the future.
We have determined three specific ways that stakeholders in the agricultural sector can take distinct, actionable steps towards promoting sustainable agriculture, as listed below.
1. Increase the sustainability of agribusinesses on an individual level
An early step in increasing agricultural sustainability is to work with agribusinesses individually to increase their sustainability. This is primarily the domain of development organizations and BDS providers, who work side-by-side with agribusinesses to help them improve. By helping to strengthen their weak points, these organizations can make sure that rural agribusinesses, which can be major implementors of rural development, are strong and professional. In turn, these professional agribusinesses can be the most sustainable agricultural model, if given the proper support. For example, professional agribusinesses have better environmental practices.
2. Focus on ESG standards and lowering risks
It is also crucial that companies working in agriculture make efforts towards promoting sustainable practices. As both investors and consumers develop a greater focus on sustainability, multinationals and brands should work on mitigating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) risks in their supply chains. It is important that multinationals are aware of potential risks that their suppliers face. This awareness is the first step towards decreasing the risks. As these risks decrease, the suppliers become more sustainable, which helps both the multinational and the overall supply chain to also increase their sustainability.
3. Invest in sustainable agribusinesses
If agribusinesses are to become more sustainable, they must have access to funds that they can use to make these changes. Thus, financial institutions and lenders can help by centering their agricultural portfolio on sustainable agribusinesses. Climate financing can specifically be helpful in both decreasing climate impact and mitigating the effects of climate change. While financing agribusinesses can be challenging, there are ways for lenders to determine and avoid potential risks of agricultural investments. When agribusinesses have access to the financing that they need, they can make efforts to become more sustainable.
Sustainability for everyone
There are many ways to invest in our planet, and if we are to create a sustainable future, it is important that everyone plays their part. In agriculture specifically, efforts towards sustainability must be undertaken along the entire value chain. Only then can we make real strides towards sustainability for everyone.
Are you interested in working with us to promote sustainable agriculture? Contact us today to see how we can work together.
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