Amna Al Dahhak: The UAE is an influential partner in transforming global food systems towards more efficiency and sustainability
Dubai, October 16 / WAM / Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahhak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, confirmed that the UAE, thanks to the support of its wise leadership, has a clear vision towards enhancing its sustainable food security and plays a pivotal and influential role in transforming global food systems towards greater efficiency and sustainability.
Her Excellency said, in a statement on the occasion of World Food Day, which falls on October 16 of each year, that on this day we recall the increasing challenges facing agricultural and food systems around the world, and we affirm the firm belief that cooperation and joint action are the best way to ensure a more sustainable food future for all humanity.
He added that this is of particular importance in light of what we are witnessing today in terms of the repercussions of climate change and extreme weather phenomena, in addition to economic crises, as all of these factors are imposing unprecedented pressure on food systems.
She explained that what exacerbates the impact of these crises is the fragility of supply chains, as their repercussions extend from farms to food tables around the world, increasing the suffering of more than 673 million people living under the weight of hunger.
Her Excellency added that food systems globally contribute about a third of greenhouse gas emissions, while food loss and waste remains one of the most prominent challenges that require urgent action, as approximately 13.2% of global food production is lost before it reaches sales outlets, and about 19% of it is wasted at the level of homes, restaurants, and retail stores.
She stressed that reducing this loss and waste is a pivotal step towards improving the efficiency of land and water use, reducing the carbon footprint, and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
She said that the UAE believes that meeting the growing food needs of the world’s population requires collective action across borders and sectors.
Her Excellency continued: “We are working in the UAE with an ambitious vision to enhance local food production in line with the National Food Security Strategy 2051. By investing in advanced agricultural technologies, expanding the scope of sustainable agriculture, and adopting innovative methods for managing water resources, the country is moving forward towards a radical transformation in its agricultural system. We are also continuing our efforts to reduce food waste by organizing Specific initiatives such as “Naama”, in our awareness that success in achieving our goals requires the participation of all segments of society.”
She said that on World Food Day, the UAE renews its firm commitment to transforming food systems towards greater efficiency and sustainability, ensuring the provision of healthy and nutritious food for all, and building a more sustainable future for future generations, through joint work and close cooperation with the entire world.
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