To ensure food security in Southeast Asia, both mitigation and adaptation strategies are critical. The recent increase in global temperatures has accentuated the urgency of climate adaptation, particularly in the agricultural sector. As AMS work towards emissions reduction, they must simultaneously implement adaptation measures that address the immediate threat posed by climate change to food systems. The forthcoming ASEAN Summits and COP30 present opportunities for these nations to lead in climate adaptation efforts.
To address food security in Southeast Asia, both climate mitigation and adaptation are essential. The Paris Agreement of 2015 urged countries to restrict temperature increases to 1.5°C. While most ASEAN Member States (AMS), with the exception of the Philippines, have set net-zero emission targets, focusing primarily on emission reduction may not adequately address food security challenges faced in the region.
The inadequacy of global mitigation efforts is evident, as 2024 marked the hottest year recorded, surpassing the critical 1.5°C limit. Additionally, recent geopolitical shifts, such as a major nation withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, cast doubt on future mitigation efficacy. Given that Southeast Asia contributes merely 5.73% to global greenhouse gas emissions, the region’s efforts alone appear insufficient.
Despite their lower emissions, ASEAN countries experience significant climate change impacts, including droughts, unseasonably high temperatures, and flooding. Such instances adversely affect agricultural production and harvest yields, particularly for essential crops like rice and oil palm. With a rising demand on food systems, the resulting impacts on the food value chain and natural resources further underscore the urgency for adaptation policies.
Adaptation strategies must be prioritized alongside traditional mitigation measures. Effective climate resilience depends on timely implementation of adaptation practices in agricultural systems. However, these strategies also carry complexities, occasionally presenting unintended consequences that may undermine food security objectives.
In response to climate challenges, some AMS are exploring diversification into hardier crops, such as millet and pulses, to enhance food security. Yet, traditional crops like rice remain crucial, necessitating imports as local production diminishes. Therefore, addressing consumer preferences and establishing robust import diversification policies become vital to mitigate potential food shortages.
“Climate-smart agriculture,” focusing on resilient crop varieties, is an essential adaptation approach. However, many AMS struggle to implement these strategies broadly due to limitations in seed availability and yield expectations. Increased cooperation among AMS is necessary to deliver these resilient varieties effectively to farmers.
While expanding production areas appears beneficial, it may conflict with conservation efforts to protect vital carbon-sequestration ecosystems. Instead, AMS ought to enhance agricultural efficiency through improved irrigation and yield management, balancing agricultural expansion with sustainability.
Several AMS, including Indonesia and the Philippines, support a transition to renewable energy to bolster resilience. However, the implementation of these initiatives at the farmer level remains challenging. Hence, optimizing current carbon-based agricultural practices is critical to ensuring food security.
As the 46th and 47th ASEAN Summits approach, focusing on “inclusivity and sustainability,” they present a key opportunity. AMS can demonstrate leadership in food security through initiatives for agricultural climate adaptation, exemplified by the Strategic Plan for Food, Agriculture, and Forestry, expected to be released by late 2025.
In conclusion, the dual approach of mitigation and adaptation is crucial for advancing food security in Southeast Asia. While mitigation efforts are essential, adaptation strategies must take precedence to effectively address the unique challenges posed by climate change in the region’s agriculture sector. The upcoming ASEAN Summits and COP30 represent significant opportunities for AMS to lead in climate-resilient agricultural planning and foster collaboration on these urgent matters.
Original Source: fulcrum.sg
