Sustainability requires the integration of farmer knowledge, scientific advancements, and comprehensive innovation.

Abstract

This viewpoint paper emphasises the need to diversify food production methods to simultaneously combat hunger and reduce environmental problems. The recommendations of the UN Food System Summit 2021 relate primarily to (i) the conservation of natural ecosystems, (ii) the sustainable management of existing agricultural land while increasing productivity and (iii) the restoration of already degraded land. Europe in particular faces unique challenges, such as reducing pollution and promoting organic farming up to 25 percent of the agricultural land area while maintaining food production. Ongoing efforts aim to create a transparent, fair and multi-level regulatory framework to support the Green Deal. The implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which will sooner or later affect a larger proportion of European farmers, should support the transition. Science and innovation play a central role in this, as they are the cornerstones on which sustainable food systems are built. It is imperative that farmers actively participate in the co-design processes and utilise their wealth of experience and creativity to drive these innovations forward. A crucial aspect of the transition to sustainability is changing consumption patterns to limit food waste and reduce meat consumption. While this transition is essential, it is not without its formidable challenges. Diversification of agriculture, encompassing a spectrum of established techniques, is touted as a promising approach to achieving sustainability without sacrificing productivity. Furthermore, integrating truly sustainable agricultural practices with cutting-edge innovations, including new genomic techniques, has the potential to be a transformative solution.