More Than One-Third of National Biodiversity Actions Focus on Agrifood Systems, FAO Analysis Finds
The growing integration of agrifood systems into national biodiversity strategies reflects a practical and science-based approach to sustainable development. Long-term biodiversity conservation depends not only on protecting forests and wildlife but also on transforming the way food is produced, distributed, and consumed. Sustainable agriculture, ecosystem restoration, and responsible resource management together offer one of the strongest pathways toward achieving global biodiversity and food security goals.
A new analysis by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights the growing connection between agriculture, food production, and biodiversity conservation. According to the study, more than one-third of the actions outlined in 78 national biodiversity strategies and action plans are directly linked to agrifood systems, demonstrating how countries are increasingly recognizing sustainable agriculture as a cornerstone of protecting nature.
The findings come as governments worldwide strengthen efforts to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) and prepare for future biodiversity commitments, including discussions linked to COP17. The analysis underscores the importance of integrating food systems into national environmental strategies to safeguard ecosystems while ensuring long-term food security.
Biodiversity and Food Systems Are Closely Connected
Agrifood systems encompass the entire chain of food production—from farming and fisheries to processing, transportation, markets, and consumption. These systems depend heavily on healthy ecosystems, fertile soils, clean water, pollinators, forests, and stable climatic conditions.
At the same time, agricultural activities can significantly influence biodiversity through land use, resource management, and production methods. Sustainable farming practices therefore play a crucial role in protecting natural habitats while maintaining agricultural productivity.
National Biodiversity Plans Reflect a Changing Approach
Countries develop National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) to outline their priorities for conserving ecosystems, protecting wildlife, restoring degraded habitats, and promoting sustainable development.
The latest FAO analysis indicates that many governments are moving beyond traditional conservation policies by incorporating agriculture, fisheries, livestock, forestry, and food production into their biodiversity planning.
This integrated approach recognizes that environmental protection and food production must work together rather than compete with one another.
Why Agrifood Systems Matter
Food systems influence nearly every aspect of biodiversity. Farming practices determine soil quality, water use, greenhouse gas emissions, habitat preservation, and the survival of countless plant and animal species.
Sustainable agrifood systems can contribute to biodiversity by:
- Conserving natural habitats
- Protecting pollinators
- Improving soil health
- Reducing chemical pollution
- Promoting sustainable water management
- Supporting agroforestry
- Conserving genetic diversity in crops and livestock
- Encouraging climate-resilient farming
These practices help balance agricultural production with environmental conservation.
Supporting Global Biodiversity Goals
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework provides an international roadmap for halting biodiversity loss and restoring ecosystems by 2030.
Integrating agrifood systems into national biodiversity plans supports several global objectives, including ecosystem restoration, sustainable land use, food security, climate resilience, and responsible resource management.
Countries are increasingly recognizing that biodiversity conservation cannot succeed without transforming food production systems.
Benefits for Farmers and Communities
Sustainable agricultural practices not only protect ecosystems but also strengthen rural livelihoods. Healthy soils improve crop yields, diverse farming systems reduce production risks, and better water management increases resilience during droughts.
Communities that rely directly on agriculture often benefit from conservation initiatives that preserve natural resources for future generations.
This creates a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability.
Science and Policy Working Together
The FAO analysis demonstrates the growing role of scientific evidence in shaping environmental policy. By evaluating national biodiversity plans, researchers can identify common priorities, measure progress, and recommend practical improvements.
Evidence-based policymaking allows governments to design more effective conservation strategies while addressing food production challenges.
Preparing for Future Biodiversity Commitments
As countries continue updating their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans, stronger integration of agrifood systems is expected to remain a major priority.
Future policies are likely to focus on regenerative agriculture, climate-smart farming, ecosystem restoration, sustainable fisheries, efficient water use, and improved landscape management.
These measures aim to create food systems that are productive, resilient, and environmentally responsible.
Looking Ahead
The FAO’s latest analysis highlights an important global shift in environmental policymaking. Rather than treating biodiversity conservation and agriculture as separate issues, countries are increasingly developing integrated strategies that recognize their close relationship.
Protecting biodiversity while ensuring reliable food production will require continued collaboration among governments, farmers, researchers, businesses, and local communities. By placing sustainable agrifood systems at the center of biodiversity planning, nations can work toward healthier ecosystems, stronger food security, and more resilient economies.
