This conflict was reflected in the Forum’s call for more collaboration and more whole-of-society engagement. The conflicting perspectives and values need to be rebalanced or integrated. Focusing on rebalancing requires a shift in power dynamics – and feels like a battle. Focusing on integration requires better thinking and the capacity to see more comprehensively. And that requires hard work! However, integration is the sustainable way forward.
The FAO has a fascinating role as a mediator between private and public interests. It will do well not to become captured by one or the other.
This endeavour requires the involvement of all value chain stakeholders food processors, vets, pharmaceutical companies, banks, feed companies, fertiliser companies, feed additive companies, educators and universities. No individual, organisation or sector can do what needs to be done on their own
Technological innovation alone will not achieve the required reductions in carbon emissions and biodiversity depletion. No matter how many efficiency measures we roll out, technical efficiency won’t be enough unless without a fundamental shift in business models and traditional thinking about business performance.