The need to enhance crop, livestock and aquatic genetic diversity in food systems

Biodiversity loss is a global threat and biodiversity for food and agriculture is particularly relevant in the context of our food systems. This report discusses the current status and trends of crop, livestock and aquatic genetic diversity, in relation to food systems. The impact of decreasing or enhanced use of crop, livestock and aquatic genetic diversity – within and across species and varieties – is discussed in relation to four different food system dimensions: 1) safe and healthy diets, 2) food security, 3) inclusiveness and equal benefits, and 4) sustainability and resilience. To this end, both a literature review and stakeholder and expert interviews were used. We provide a conceptual framework for assessing trade-offs of different measures and strategies for increased use of crop, livestock and aquatic genetic diversity. We furthermore highlight key topics for future research and policy recommendations in this area

Nature-positive futures : Food systems as a catalyser for change

The content of this Mansholt lecture came about through a wide science-policy consultation process. Existing ‘seeds of innovation’ in the biodiversity climate-food nexus were collected in a WUR-wide dialogue on 10th May 2022, which involved some 150 interdisciplinary experts. These seeds were collated into interventions for nature-positive futures, in an interdisciplinary workshop of WUR colleagues on 13th May 2022. They were further clustered into five entry points for nature-positive changes to the food system. The resulting entry points and interventions were discussed with several EU policy makers in another workshop in Brussels on 30th June 2022. We thank everyone involved in this process for their inpu