Day7 of the climate summit had a focus and discussion on nature-based solutions and a more sustainable food supply system.
The enthusiasm and energy seen at the starting of the COP26 summit seem to be declining as there is no clear indication of where the talks and negotiation will lead. It is uncertain how much ambition is left in the countries as negotiators struggled to complete the first draft of an outcome document.
It is hoped that a fresh week will bring a new resolve point of contention. This is a great concern considering with the progress till now it seems insufficient to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Nature-based solutions could reduce total greenhouse gas emissions by about a third, particularly through sustainable agriculture and halting deforestation. The COP26 Presidency announced that 45 governments, led by the United Kingdom, will ramp up efforts to protect nature and shift to more sustainable farming. A pledge to invest over $4 billion in the new public sector for climate-resilient crops and regenerative solutions to improve soil health.
Canada announced CDN$1 billion in international support for nature-based solutions, a fifth of its climate finance. It supports an international target to protect 30 per cent of lands and oceans by 2030, and earlier this week announced it would back a fund for coral reefs.
In support of a more sustainable food system the Goodwill Ambassador for International Fund for Agricultural Development, Idris Alba was seen on stage. He said that Small-scale farmers deliver 80 per cent of the food that we eat,” he added, “And every year, the crops are lower because the rain is different, and the soil is different.” Climate change, population growth and poverty are increasing global food insecurity.