At the COP28 climate summit, the UK, led by International Development and Africa Minister Andrew Mitchell, is scaling up its commitment to sustainable agriculture and water security, particularly in climate-vulnerable countries.
Key Announcements
- Sustainable Farming Practices: The UK is partnering with the World Bank to promote climate-resilient farming globally, focusing on improving soil health, land management, and efficient fertiliser use.
- Support for Smallholder Farmers: A £10 million investment through the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) will assist smallholder farmers, especially in forest-impact areas, to enhance incomes sustainably.
Impact on Vulnerable Countries
- The programs aim to support countries like Zambia that are facing severe droughts impacting their economies and food production.
- Initiatives include aiding smallholder farmers, many of whom are women in rural communities, to diversify and improve their agricultural practices.
Focus on Water Security
- Recognising the critical role of agriculture in freshwater use and pollution, the UK is launching the Just Transitions for Water Security programme with up to £39 million in new funding.
- This programme will provide technical assistance to manage water resources sustainably, improving climate resilience and ensuring access to clean water.
Minister’s Statement
- Andrew Mitchell emphasized the centrality of water in the climate crisis and the need to protect water to ensure equitable access for all.
Collaboration with WaterAid
- The Resilient Water Accelerator, led by WaterAid, is a key part of the Just Transitions for Water Security programme, focusing on boosting investment in water systems.
Global Commitments
- The UK’s initiatives align with the objectives of the Emirates Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems and Climate Action, endorsed by over 130 countries.
- The UK has also signed up to the Freshwater Challenge to enhance the conservation of freshwater ecosystems.
Cross-Government Strategy
- In line with the International Development White Paper, the UK is committed to establishing a global water security strategy, integrating water-related policymaking in the context of climate change.
