Feeding a growing population in the context of COVID-19, climate change and scarce natural resources is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Moreover, the number of people suffering from hunger is on the rise, affecting approximately one in nine people (1). This jeopardizes the attainment of the Zero Hunger Goal, and of the overall 2030 Agenda.

Increasing investment in agriculture and food systems is essential to tackle this challenge. With most of the world’s poor living in rural areas, it is estimated that additional investments of USD 140 billion per year in agriculture and rural development are needed in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)(2).

However, not only more investments are required, but better ones. We need investments that enhance food security and nutrition and generate positive socio-economic and environmental impacts, thereby benefitting investors, workers and communities. These investments are referred to as “responsible” following the first globally negotiated agreement that provides guidance on the topic, the CFS Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems.

Do you want to know more about the linkages between responsible investment in agriculture and food systems and the SDGs?

References

1. FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP & WHO. 2019. The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2019. Safeguarding against economic slowdowns and downturns. Rome. 239 pp. (Also available at: http://www.fao.org/3/ca5162en/ ca5162en.pdf).
2. FAO, IFAD & WFP. 2015. Achieving Zero Hunger: the critical role of investments in social protection and agriculture. Rome. 39 pp. (Also available at: http://www.fao.org/3/a-i4951e.pdf)