COP28’s Food, Agriculture, and Water Day witnessed significant developments as nations made major commitments to address climate impacts and strive to maintain the 1.5°C target. Key announcements on global water scarcity and food security were made during this crucial day, with countries rallying behind the COP28 UAE Declaration on Agriculture, Food Systems, and Climate Action, now supported by 152 nations, along with the Water Action Agenda. Over USD 7.1 billion has been mobilized during COP28 for climate-positive action within the food system sector. The day featured major announcements, including the launch of a two-year work partnership leading to COP30 by the UAE and Brazil. This was revealed during the first-ever COP ministerial dialogue focusing on building water-resilient food systems.
The COP28 UAE Presidency, in collaboration with partners, introduced more than 30 new country members of the Freshwater Challenge. This commitment requires members to work towards protecting and restoring 30% of the Earth’s degraded freshwater ecosystems by 2030. Additionally, the COP28 Presidency, FAO, World Bank, CGIAR, and IFAD jointly announced the Sharm-El Sheikh Support Programme. This three-year initiative aims to assist countries in unlocking finance and support for farmers, food producers, small agribusinesses, and local communities.
Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment and COP28 Food Systems Lead, emphasized the importance of addressing the interconnectedness between global food systems, agriculture, and climate to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. Almheiri stated that COP28 has laid the foundations for action, committing 152 countries to transform their food systems and embedding these commitments in their climate strategies while safeguarding livelihoods.
COP28’s Food, Agriculture, and Water Day marked the conclusion of the Presidency’s two-week thematic program. It followed announcements made during the World Climate Action Summit (WCAS) on December 1, where 134 countries endorsed the Declaration. Subsequently, 18 more countries joined, bringing the total signatories to 152.
In line with the COP28 UAE Presidency’s commitment to inclusion, the Food, Agriculture, and Water Day involved various non-governmental stakeholders. This inclusive approach featured smallholder and traditional farmers, fishers, and communities engaged in sustainable practices like agroecology and agroforestry, alongside private sector leaders showcasing innovations in food and nature positivity.