Roadmap for achieving net-zero emissions in global food systems by 2050

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Climate Change Mitigation
• Food Systems Analysis

Background:

• Food systems contribute significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions, approximately 20 GtCO2e/year (35%).
• Projected increases in food demand threaten global climate targets if emissions continue to rise.
• Current emission levels pose a substantial risk to achieving international climate goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the potential for food systems to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
• To evaluate low-emission and carbon sequestration practices within food systems.
• To identify pathways for reducing food system emissions without relying on traditional carbon offsets.

Main Methods:

• Rapid assessment of over 60 scenarios.
• Analysis of existing low-emission and carbon sequestration practices.
• Modeling of emission reduction potentials and carbon sequestration capacities.

Main Results:

• Intensifying food systems could reduce emissions from 21.4 to -2.0 GtCO2e/year.
• A pathway involving shifting to less emission-intensive production (45% reduction), 50% carbon sequestration potential, and diet shifts/new technologies (~6 GtCO2e/year) is identified.
• Achieving net-zero requires a diverse portfolio of practices, including diet shifts and novel technologies.

Conclusions:

• Net-zero food systems are achievable by 2050 through a combination of mitigation strategies.
• Successful transition necessitates cost-effective practices, improved governance, financial innovation, and research into affordable technologies within the next two decades.
• A clear vision and actionable options are provided to guide the global food system towards climate neutrality.