Attributed to: Turgut Yegenaga, CEO, Al Ghurair Foods, Al Ghurair Resources International
As the backbone of livelihoods and a crucial element of food security, agriculture in regions characterised as “arid” or “semi-arid” face mounting challenges as an after effect of climate change. These areas are typically challenged by limited rainfall and high evaporation rates, and hot, dry weather conditions. However, they are now witnessing an even more dramatic and accelerated shift in their climatic patterns: rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and an increased frequency of extreme weather events such as droughts. These alterations pose a significant threat to the already strained capability for agriculture, impacting productivity and, consequently, the livelihoods that depend on it.
Governments worldwide are prioritising investments in food security, a trend that is especially evident in the GCC. For instance, the UAE’s National Strategy for Food Security aims to lead in the Global Food Security Index by 2051, backed by substantial investments in the nation’s food and beverages (F&B) manufacturing sector, which is expected to grow to $23.2 billion by 2025 .
While GCC countries have enjoyed high levels of food security over the years, much of this has been through imports. In a world that has experienced supply disruptions at the hands of the Covid-19 pandemic and global geopolitical conflicts, GCC governments have doubled down on efforts to strengthen local food systems in a bid to achieve self-sufficiency.
At the same time, there are also considerations to be made about the environmental impact of agriculture. According to a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the agriculture, forestry, and other land use (AFOLU) sectors contributed to 22% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019, resulting from deforestation and combustion of fossil fuels .
A viable response to these challenges lies in the principles of sustainable agriculture, which emphasises environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible farming practices. Sustainable agriculture focuses on water efficiency, soil health, biodiversity, and the adoption of drought-resistant crops – all of which are highly suitable for arid regions. These practices are not merely about adaptation; they represent a fusion of traditional knowledge and modern technology aimed at fostering resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.
Innovative practices in sustainable agriculture have already begun showing promise in arid landscapes. Techniques such as drip irrigation, which maximises water efficiency, agroforestry, which combats soil erosion, and renewable energy sources for irrigation, are pivotal in conserving water and enhancing soil health. The development and adoption of drought-resistant crops are also critical, offering a sustainable solution for agriculture in these challenging environments.
Equally important in this context is the role of consumers and the need to raise awareness about the environmental impact of the agriculture sector. It is essential to educate both consumers and farmers about the significance of supporting sustainable farming practices and products. This awareness can drive consumer choices that positively impact farmers and the agricultural sector at large, demonstrating the interconnectedness of global food supply chains and the environmental costs of transporting food across long distances.
The path to sustainable agriculture is fraught with challenges, including economic barriers, the need for supportive policies, and the crucial role of education and training for local farmers. These challenges, nonetheless, present unique opportunities for enhancing food security, environmental benefits, and economic prosperity through improved agricultural yields, financial incentives for farmers, biodiversity conservation, and a reduced carbon footprint.
The urgency of transitioning to sustainable agriculture in arid and semi-arid regions is clear. This shift requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders—governments, the private sector, communities, and individuals—to tackle the challenges posed by climate change. During COP28, the UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action, supported by 134 signatories, pushed for the comprehensive uphaul of food systems in favour of sustainable agricultural solutions. In tandem, more than US$2.5 billion was mobilised to support food security while combatting climate change with transitioning 160 million hectares to regenerative agriculture by 2030 .
Efforts like these show that through collaboration and innovation, we can ensure the resilience and sustainability of agriculture in these crucial landscapes, securing not just the livelihoods of those who depend on it but also the health of our planet for future generations.