In the heart of Zambia, Enock Siankwilimba, a researcher at the Graduate School of Business, University of Zambia, has been delving into the intricate web of challenges facing global agriculture. His recent systematic review, published in the journal ‘Cogent Food & Agriculture’ (which translates to ‘Thoughtful Food & Agriculture’), sheds light on how systemic issues are reshaping the agricultural landscape, with significant implications for the energy sector and beyond.
Imagine a farmer in Ukraine, once a breadbasket of Europe, now grappling with the fallout of war. Or a smallholder in a developing country, battling the triple whammy of climate change, COVID-19, and mounting debt. These are not isolated cases but part of a global trend that’s forcing a rethink of sustainable agriculture and extension services.
Siankwilimba’s research, which spans literature from 2019 to 2023, paints a stark picture. The Russian conflicts, he notes, have sent shockwaves through global food supplies, production, and consumption. “The loss of agricultural and health workers through COVID-19 has compounded the challenges,” Siankwilimba states, highlighting the pandemic’s lingering impact.
But it’s not just about people. Climate change is wreaking havoc on ecosystems crucial for agriculture. Pollinator numbers have plummeted by 61% due to temperature rises, while tropical primary forests, vital carbon sinks, are vanishing at an alarming rate. In 2022 alone, 4.1 million hectares were lost, releasing 2.7 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? For starters, the energy-intensive nature of modern agriculture means that disruptions in food systems can lead to increased energy demand and volatility in energy prices. Moreover, the push for sustainable agriculture could drive demand for renewable energy sources, creating new opportunities for the energy sector.
But perhaps the most significant impact is the need for collaboration and innovation. As Siankwilimba puts it, “Leadership that fosters collaboration among stakeholders through private and public dialogue is crucial.” This could mean partnerships between energy companies and agricultural firms to develop more sustainable practices, or investments in technologies that improve agricultural efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Looking ahead, Siankwilimba’s research underscores the need for a holistic approach to agricultural development. It’s not just about increasing yields or reducing emissions; it’s about building resilient systems that can withstand shocks and adapt to changing conditions. This could mean investing in climate-smart agriculture, improving access to finance for smallholder farmers, or strengthening agricultural extension services.
As we navigate these complex challenges, one thing is clear: the future of agriculture is intertwined with the future of energy. And as Siankwilimba’s research shows, the time to act is now. The global agricultural landscape is changing, and those who can adapt and innovate will be the ones to thrive.