We need to rethink the role of energy when considering our options for improving food systems. Agrifood systems will have to become ‘energy-smart’ to meet future food and energy challenges.

FAO helps countries promote energy-smart agrifood systems through the identification, planning and implementation of appropriate energy, water, food security and climate-smart strategies that spur agricultural growth and rural development. In 2012 FAO has launched the multi-partner Energy-Smart Food for people and climate (ESF) Programme which focuses on country action but also includes an international support component.

Sustainable bioenergy can significantly contribute to achievement of energy-smart agrifood systems. FAO has carried out  considerable work on this topic, which led to the development of the FAO Sustainable Bioenergy Support Package.

The ESF Programme is part of major international initiatives. It is an essential component of climate-smart agriculture and also contributes to the broader UN Sustainable Energy for All (SEFA) Initiative by focussing on the energy issues in relation to the agrifood chain.

FAO's work on energy

Energy is a subject that touches on a number of aspects of FAO’s work. The current work that FAO is undertaking to address energy-related issues can be broadly summarized in the following areas:

• Climate Change

• Crop Production

• Economics

• Fisheries

• Food Processing

• Food Security

• Gender

• Livestock

• Wood

An overview of FAO's activities focused on energy is available in the Projects page.