What's Happening?
During an official visit to Iceland, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) met with President Halla Tómasdóttir to discuss sustainability goals and the role of food systems in global sustainability. The meeting highlighted
FAO's focus on transforming agrifood systems through its Strategic Framework 2022-31 and institutional innovations. President Tómasdóttir emphasized Iceland's potential in geothermal energy and marine innovation, while the Director-General commended Iceland's pioneering role in ocean governance. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advance sustainable agrifood systems, leveraging Iceland's strengths in renewable energy and gender-inclusive development.
Why It's Important?
The collaboration between FAO and Iceland is crucial for advancing global sustainability efforts, particularly in the agrifood sector. Iceland's expertise in marine innovation and renewable energy can significantly contribute to sustainable food systems, which are essential for addressing climate change and food security challenges. The partnership also highlights the importance of gender-inclusive development, recognizing the role of women and girls as key agents of change. This collaboration can serve as a model for other countries seeking to integrate sustainability into their agrifood systems.
What's Next?
The FAO and Iceland are expected to continue their collaboration, focusing on leveraging Iceland's unique strengths in marine innovation and renewable energy. This includes exploring transformative possibilities in algae and seaweed, as well as advancing gender-inclusive development. The FAO World Food Forum, held annually, will continue to engage youth, scientists, investors, and policymakers in shaping the future of agrifood systems.
