During COP29, delegates emphasized the critical role of agriculture in addressing climate change, particularly on Food, Agriculture and Water Day.

Experts warned that unchecked agricultural emissions could thwart global climate goals, even if fossil fuel emissions were eliminated immediately.

Recognizing agriculture's significant impact, recent COPs have highlighted that it accounts for about one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions.

A coalition of over 50 million family farmers pointed out the insufficient public financing reaching small-scale farmers, who are essential for food production in many regions.

The FAO reported that agriculture received around $29 billion in climate development finance in 2022, despite its substantial contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation.

A 2021 report revealed that many countries' Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) underestimated agricultural emissions by neglecting factors such as deforestation and food waste.

In a significant commitment, over 30 countries pledged to reduce methane emissions stemming from food loss and waste, which accounts for 8-10% of global methane emissions.

Soil conservation advocates called for increased climate financing to restore degraded soils, warning that neglecting this could release stored carbon back into the atmosphere.

The Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation reported progress in systemic change initiatives, with countries like Sierra Leone taking steps to prevent deforestation linked to rice production.

The Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers was launched to provide farmers with accessible information and resources to support their climate action efforts.

Looking ahead to COP30 in Belem, Brazil, there is a crucial opportunity to address the connection between deforestation and food production.

Countries are required to submit updated NDCs every five years, with the next deadline in 2025, highlighting the urgent need for specific plans to reduce agricultural emissions.

The Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate announced a significant increase in funding for 'climate smart' agriculture, raising the total from $17 billion to $29.2 billion since the last COP.