The world continues to face challenges brought on by climate change, and particularly in dry corridor of Central America where water availability, agricultural shifts, ecological disruptions and species extinctions, and infrastructure are at risk from extreme weather events. Against this backdrop, FAO recognizes the need for transformative partnerships with non-state actors, including universities, to develop capacities for a sustainable agrifood systems that deliver safe and nutritious foods for healthy diets for present and future generations, leaving no one behind.

In 2016, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) entered into partnership to strengthen sustainable agrifood systems and tackle crises brought on by climate change. Now, more than seven years later, FAO and UPM reflect on the impact of their joint efforts through the publication of a partnership case study entitled “Developing capacities to enhance sustainable agrifood systems and combating climate change.”

The study highlights the partnerships work to leverage knowledge and field experience in areas of agriculture, food and nutrition, environment and climate change, focusing on Central America, Latin America and Caribbean countries for the advancement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. The collaboration is contributing to the 2030 Agenda goals including No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action and Partnerships for the Goals.

FAO is proud to see the fruitful results obtained in the successful partnership with UPM, including efforts towards the implementation of the Climate Smart Agriculture Strategy for the SICA Region 2018-2030 and of the CFS Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems.