Investing in ecosystem services is vital for food security

The intensification of food production often causes pollution that can put biodiversity and pollination at risk and lead to soil erosion. A more intelligent and balanced approach to agricultural practices needs to be taken to meet the needs of the growing population - predicted to rise by more than 25% by 2050 - increasing demand on resources.

A new report 'An Ecosystems Services Approach to Water and Food Security' highlights this need for change, calling for an ecosystems-based approach as a way to help restore balance in agriculture. The paper argues that this could result not only in more efficient water use, but also a reduction in the loss of farmland through degradation.

Dr. Devra Jarvis, Bioversity scientist and report contributor, is also keen to stress the importance of agricultural biodiversity within food production systems:

“Crop genetic diversity within farmers' production systems can be particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of current and future damage from pests and diseases. It can also lead to higher and more efficient levels of pollination services – helping smallholder farmers maintain diversity.”

The report by the United Nations Environment Programme  [2] and the International Water Management Institute  [3] (IWMI), was co-written by members of 21 organizations, including Bioversity International. It uses a range of case studies from around the world, including China, Guatemala and Jordan, and makes recommendations for change in three crucial areas: environmental protection, water resources management and food production.

Read the synthesis report  [4]

Or download the full report and more information on the IWMI  [5] website