By Juan Carlos Motamayor, CEO of Topian

Climate change stands as a clear global challenge. The true impact of climate change cannot be underestimated nor be deemed inconsequential, casting shadows on livelihoods and, in some cases, threatening their very existence. Amidst the myriad consequences, one of the most pressing issues is food security, a concern further exacerbated by the burgeoning global population.

The MENA region is already struggling with the severe adverse effects of global warming, such as drought which is causing detrimental effects. It is a stark reality that the most vulnerable communities find themselves on the frontlines, bearing the disproportionate burden of escalating temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and hazardous climatic events. As these climate strains intensify, the need for concrete and sustainable solutions to ensure food security in these regions becomes imperative.

The consequences of climate change on agriculture and food production worldwide are undeniable. Central to this is the critical issue of water scarcity, a defining factor in the success or failure of agricultural systems. Currently, alarming figures indicate that several regions are already facing water scarcity, and addressing water-related challenges is paramount in securing the future of food production.

Water scarcity

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), agriculture accounts for approximately 70% of global freshwater withdrawals. In climate-stressed regions, where water resources are already stretched thin, this figure takes on even greater significance. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) estimates that the projected gap between water supply and demand could reach 40% by 2030. This further exasperates the water scarcity dilemma and threatens the livelihood of our sector.

Mitigating the impact of climate change on food security necessitates the adoption and deployment of innovative and advanced technologies. For instance, controlled-environment systems, similar to those being adopted at Topian, have proven to be approximately 93% more efficient than traditional irrigation methods, minimizing water wastage and maximizing crop yield. Additionally, precision agriculture, utilizing data and technology to optimize farming practices, can empower farmers to make informed decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and pest control.

Innovative Testbed

At Topian, we are setting up an innovation hub and testbed shaped in the desert, developing scalable models applicable worldwide as climate change accelerates and arable land diminishes. Through the dissemination of knowledge and education on advanced technological and sustainable practices, as well as fostering cooperation among local farming communities, Topian aims to create a robust foundation for climate-resilient agriculture.

The significance of this issue is profound for nations heavily reliant on food imports. Disruptions in supply chains during pandemics or conflicts reveal vulnerabilities, yet the impending impact of climate change on food provision is often overlooked. Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts will notably diminish crop and livestock productivity. Nations may prioritize domestic consumption over exports, exemplified by instances like Russia and India pausing cereal exports post-heat waves. These events underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard global food security through decentralized food production amid looming climate-related challenges.

Recommendation

Addressing food security challenges in climate-stressed regions demands a decentralized food production suitable for extreme weather conditions. We need to hedge against the negative impacts of failing breadbaskets and fragile supply chains. With the food system being responsible for a significant portion of carbon emissions, we must create a decentralized industry that can adapt to specific weather conditions, reduce carbon emissions, and withstand climate change.

At Topian, we see our work as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build a food system from the ground up. We want to provide a global model for transitioning from an extractive to a regenerative production system.

This transformation is critical, for the Kingdom, the region, and the entire world. Building a resilient and sustainable food system is not just a choice; it is a necessity for the well-being and prosperity of present and future generations.

Now is the time for collective action. Governments, industries, and individuals must unite to support innovative initiatives, invest in sustainable technologies, and reshape policies to secure our future food systems.