For the third consecutive year, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) presented its “House of Sustainable Agriculture” at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), held in Baku, Azerbaijan. This unique pavilion has become a hub for discussions on transforming agriculture to address the challenges posed by climate change.
Driving Sustainability in Agriculture
IICA Director-President Manuel Otero highlighted the need for the agricultural sector to adopt environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and nutritionally intelligent practices. “We are advancing a new generation of public policies that acknowledge agriculture’s evolving role in sustainability and international trade,” he stated.
Representatives from 34 countries across the Americas showcased successful agricultural models, with over 50 panels hosted at the pavilion. These sessions brought together hundreds of producers, academics, and policymakers to share insights and strategies for decarbonization and resilience.
Success Stories from Brazil
During the panel titled Climate Action: Producers’ Voices in the Fight Against Climate Change, Paulo Teixeira, Brazil’s Minister of Agricultural Development, highlighted achievements from the National Program for Strengthening Family Farming. In the four months leading up to October 2024, significant milestones included:
- 28.5% growth in funding for organic farming.
- 20% increase in machinery and equipment financing for small farmers.
- Expanded production of staple crops like beans, onions, potatoes, cabbage, and carrots.
- A 14% reduction in soy production within family farming systems.
These results demonstrate the program’s success in promoting sustainable, low-emission agricultural practices.
Financing a Green Transition
IICA hosted a high-profile panel during the official COP29 opening, focusing on nature-based solutions and strategies for enhancing agricultural resilience. Roberto Azevedo, former director-general of the World Trade Organization, emphasized the importance of strategic financing and regulatory frameworks to accelerate the transition to sustainable farming.
“Creating incentives for green investments is critical,” Azevedo noted. “Regulatory frameworks must align with sustainability goals, encouraging innovation and rewarding environmentally responsible practices.” He also underscored the transformative potential of technological advancements in achieving agricultural decarbonization.
Bridging Communities for Change
IICA’s efforts extend beyond sharing best practices to fostering collaboration among stakeholders. A key meeting with the Governor of Pará, Helder Barbalho, laid the groundwork for COP30, set to take place in Belém, Brazil, in 2025. The next Inter-American Board of Agriculture meeting, involving 34 agriculture ministers from the Americas, will align its agenda with pre-COP activities in Belém.
As Manuel Otero stated, “Creating networks and connections is essential to driving meaningful transformation in agriculture. Our mission is to make sustainability a shared priority for all.”
