Building climate-resilience on a global scale

Rome — FAO and the European Conservation Agriculture Federation (ECAF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), strengthening collaboration to scale up sustainable agricultural practices around the world. This strategic partnership, formalized in a signing ceremony at FAO headquarters in Rome, reflects a shared commitment to transforming agrifood systems and improving global food security, environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

This partnership will extend beyond promoting conservation agriculture (CA) – an approach that focuses on soil preservation, biodiversity and ecosystem health – to also advance sustainable agricultural mechanization, precision agriculture, and climate-resilient agricultural practices.

Shared goals and commitments 

During the ceremony, FAO Deputy Director-General, Beth Bechdol underscored the need for collaborative solutions to address global challenges. “Through this agreement, FAO and ECAF are joining forces to scale up sustainable agricultural practices, boost soil health, reduce carbon emissions and enhance agricultural productivity,” said DDG Bechdol. She emphasized that this partnership will support our Members to produce more, using fewer inputs, with a stronger emphasis on conservation. She outlined FAO’s commitment to promoting environmentally viable, climate-resilient agricultural practices, focusing particularly on the needs of small-scale farmers.

Mr Basch expressed appreciation to FAO for this partnership, emphasizing ECAF’s dedication to promoting sustainable agriculture practices that benefit both farmers and the environment, with a specific emphasis on women and youth. “This MoU lays a strong foundation to create long-term impact through advancing agricultural practices that address global challenges”, Mr Basch stated. 

FAO Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol with President of the European Conservation Agriculture Federation Gottlieb Basch at the signing ceremony. @ FAO / Christiano Minichiello

Focus areas for collaboration

FAO and ECAF have committed to several core objectives under this MoU:

1. Promoting conservation agriculture

By promoting conservation agriculture, the partnership will support farmers to adopt climate-smart practices, reduce environmental footprint, and improve ecosystem health.

2. Capacity building and knowledge sharing

The MoU establishes a framework for training to equip farmers, policymakers, and extension services with the tools and agricultural practices, that can be adapted to local needs.

3. Advancing research and innovation

FAO and ECAF will leverage collaborative research to accelerate the adoption of conservation agriculture practices, focusing on locally adapted practices, that also consider gender-specific needs. 

Strengthening partnerships for sustainable agriculture

Looking ahead, FAO and ECAF will work with various stakeholders, including the private sector, to support the adoption of conservation agriculture on a global scale. Additionally, ongoing partnerships with the African Conservation Tillage Network (ACT), the European Agricultural Machinery (CEMA) and the Confederation of American Associations for Sustainable Agriculture Production (CAAPAS) will contribute to amplify efforts across continents.

Group photo during the signing ceremony. @ FAO / Christiano Minichiello