This significant publication highlights the crucial role of genetic resources in maintaining the resilience and productivity of forests and their adaptation to climate change. Drawing on data from 77 countries – representing more than three-quarters of the global forest area – the report analyses the progress made in improving the management of forest genetic resources while also indicating that there is a need to reinforce their conservation and sustainable management in the face of rising threats to them.

The Third Report on the State of the World’s Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture presents the results of a global assessment of the status and trends of in situ conservation, on-farm management, ex situ conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture since 2012. It also presents the status of human and institutional capacities and the enabling environment necessary for the effective conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.  

In 2025, forests and foods is the theme for the day, celebrating the crucial roles of forests in food security, nutrition and livelihoods. In addition to providing food, fuel, income and employment, forests support soil fertility, protect water resources, and offer habitats for biodiversity, including vital pollinators. They are essential for the survival of forest-dependent communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples, and contribute to climate change mitigation by storing carbon.

Delegates from 139 countries convened at FAO Headquarters in Rome for the resumed meeting of the Sixteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16.2) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the meeting was a continuation of COP16, held in Cali, Colombia, between October and November 2024. 

Rome – As more than 150 countries convene in Rome for the resumed session of the 16th United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16.2), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is calling for bold action to transform agrifood systems and support global biodiversity goals.

Whether it’s using indigenous seeds that are more resilient, combining coffee crops with banana plants or restoring pollinator populations, biodiversity is not an abstract concept tossed around by scientists and activists.

Rome - Unfinished biodiversity negotiations are back on the table.  After a groundbreaking session in Cali, Colombia, delegations are reconvening in Rome to tackle unfinished business that will be critical for biodiversity action – with transforming agrifood systems emerging as a central element for global success. The resumed session of the sixteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16) will take place at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) headquarters in Rome from 25–27 February 2025.

For FAO, this conference is a pivotal opportunity to emphasize a vital message: transforming our agrifood systems is not just beneficial, it is indispensable for safeguarding global biodiversity.

How can biodiversity meet people’s needs within agrifood systems? FAO, the CBD Secretariat, and the Government of Colombia will spotlight solutions at the special event "Meeting People’s Needs through Sustainable Use of Biodiversity within Agrifood Systems”, which will take place on 24 February 2025 ahead of the resumed session of COP16.2, addressing key global biodiversity strategies and the Agri-NBSAPs Support Initiative.

Pulses bring diversity to our agrifood systems in multiple ways: on the farm, in our diets and through value-added products. They boost biodiversity on farms by enriching cropping systems with more species. With more than 100 types of pulses available, farmers have many options for crop rotations and/or intercropping. Consumers can enjoy pulses as part of healthy diets.

This report highlights nitrogen’s critical role in supporting agricultural production, food security, and economic growth. However, unsustainable nitrogen management has severe consequences, including environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change. Balancing nitrogen use in agrifood systems is key to maintaining soil health, improving air and water quality, and addressing the interconnected challenges of pollution, climate change, and biodiversity conservation. If you are an FAO Member or an agrifood stakeholder interested in understanding nitrogen challenges in agrifood systems and exploring solutions to improve sustainable nitrogen management, this event is a valuable opportunity to explore key findings and discuss pathways to sustainable nitrogen.