Agrifood systems are becoming much more visible in national climate planning. This assessment of 116 NDCs 3.0 finds that 97% now include at least one agrifood systems measure, up from 93% in previous submissions. Progress is particularly visible in sustainable livestock, soil health, aquaculture, post-harvest systems and food security, showing a broader recognition that climate action cannot be separated from how food is produced and distributed.

The picture is much weaker further along the food chain. Only 28% of NDCs 3.0 include explicit measures on food loss and waste, 26% address sustainable healthy diets and 20% mention nutrition. Agroecology also remains relatively underrepresented, appearing in 23% of the assessed NDCs, despite wider uptake of related measures such as agroforestry and sustainable agriculture. The brief therefore warns against treating agrifood transformation mainly as a production issue, arguing instead for policies that connect nature-positive production with resilient supply chains, sustainable consumption and inclusive governance.

Equity is receiving greater attention, although often without concrete mechanisms. Indigenous Peoples and local communities are mentioned in 73% of NDCs 3.0, compared with 45% previously, while 57% mention smallholders. The brief calls for these groups, alongside women and youth, to have clearer roles in decision-making, implementation and finance. It also recommends stronger alignment between NDCs, National Adaptation Plans and biodiversity strategies, supported by better monitoring, cross-ministerial coordination and targeted climate and nature finance.