Driving food systems transformation: Linking climate action, biodiversity, and sustainable diets

11 November, 11:30 – 12:15 (Belém / GMT-3) – Nordic Pavilion, Co-organized by the Nordic Council of Ministers and UN Food Systems Coordination Hub.

In 2024, 2.6 billion people were unable to afford a healthy diet, and between 638 and 720 million people faced hunger. While these figures indicate some global progress, they also mask persistent and growing challenges in several regions. Four years since the UN Food Systems Summit, countries are increasingly shifting from commitments to concrete investments in food systems transformation, including through local governments.

In 2025, the second UNFSS+4 Stocktake highlighted the collective efforts of national governments and the wider ecosystem of support in driving food systems transformation—identifying six priority areas to sustain momentum and scale up investments. Today, 168 countries are beginning to reflect on the critical role of food and agriculture in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through their nationally determined contributions (NDCs). However, the continued loss of biodiversity is critical, undermining the ability to produce a diverse range of nutritious foods. Elevating and valuing edible biodiversity within food systems represents one of the greatest opportunities to address climate change, promote sustainable production and consumption, and improve diets and nutrition.

This side event will build on the food systems dialogues organized by the hub and the Nordic Council in COP28 and COP29 by showcasing country progress through initiatives such as the Convergence Initiative, which strengthens inter-ministerial collaboration to align food, climate, and biodiversity goals—helping set the stage for COP17 in Armenia in 2026. It will also present the Nordic Vision for Food Systems Transformation—a strategic and holistic approach that integrates environmental, social, and economic ambitions. Together, these examples demonstrate how countries and regions are operationalizing food systems transformation in ways that prioritize climate action, biodiversity, and sustainable consumption and production, while unlocking mutual co-benefits.