Expect to hear/see media reports this week about a report that is coming out of a key international agriculture summit in South Africa.
I’m seeing tidbits in the African ag press and energy news sites about an International Assessment of Agricultural Science and Technology for Development report that will be released on Tuesday.
Expect also to see plenty of debate.
I see that, according to African Energy News Review, that the IAASTD is taking a stand against biofuels and pushing agricultural science to place “greater emphasis on safeguarding natural resources and on ‘agro-ecological’ practices, including the use of natural fertilizers, traditional seeds and intensified natural practices, and reducing the distance between production and the consumer.”
Sounds an awful lot like what I hear organic farmers and buy local enthusiasts talking about.
Farmers Guardian (UK) notes that the report, by 400 scientists from 63 governments, could “transform the agenda for global food production.”
The group’s goal was impressive, to in part, answer this question: How can we reduce hunger and poverty, improve rural livelihoods, and facilitate equitable, environmentally, socially and economically sustainable development through the generation, access to, and use of agricultural knowledge, science, and technology?
Grist previews some of what is expected to come from the report:
* Focus on “agroecological” strategies to address environmental issues.
* Create opportunities for poor farmers and rural laborers.
* Do more to involve women to advance toward sustainability and development goals.
* Integrate formal, traditional, and community-based knowledge.
* Create space for diverse voices and include social scientists in policy.
The IAASTD report was commissioned by the World Bank and the United Nations to assist poor farmers throughout the world.
Virtual Farmgirl 