Food systems significantly impact the environment, contributing 23-42% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The top ten economies with the highest GHG emissions from food systems include nine G20 countries, highlighting the need for these nations to implement effective climate change mitigation strategies. However, climate change mitigation measures have predominantly focused on agricultural production stages, with insufficient attention to post-production and imported food emissions.
Recommendations:
Raise awareness of carbon footprints in the global food system and enhance scientific knowledge to support action on the issue.
Promote evidence-based measures to reduce carbon footprints in post-production and imported food.
Establish a comprehensive international assessment and reporting mechanism.
Formulate international collaboration and policy integration and coordination.