Trade and innovation
One-third of all edible food produced is lost or wasted each year. The UN’s proposed Sustainable Development Goal 12 aims at a 50% reduction in food waste per capita at the retail and consumer level and also includes general recommendation on reducing food losses along production and supply chains, including post-harvest losses.
A number of people suffering from hunger reduced by 167 million – a great progress on the way to hunger alleviation. Still, one in every nine people suffers from chronical hunger and its consequences. Socio-political instability and natural disasters are the two major factors that compromise food security.
SLU Global released a new report titled "Innovative Doctoral Education for Global Food Security 2013-2014. A Swedish Government Initiative". The programme with focus on higher eductation for food security in low-income countries has been a major effort that brought many possibilities for SLU.
Inclusive Business Sweden, IBS, is a non-profit organisation and part of a global network of labs in 22 countries that supports organisations in the development of sustainable, innovative and inclusive business models. IBS is also working with the “Base of the Pyramid”, BoP, – the 4 billion individuals living on under $8 a day.
During a recent G20 meeting in Istanbul, FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva praised the agricultural ministers of the member countries for making commitments to reduce food waste and promote sustainable food systems.
A major new book examines the potential for sustainable growth of bioenergy use, potential impacts, and the role of good governance in maximizing benefits and avoiding harm.
The SIANI African Biochar Expert group is in the process of starting a network of researchers and development professionals with experience and interest in biochar. We are interested in getting in touch with ongoing biochar activities in Africa, as well as with people who are interested in information about biochar development in Africa.
Focali researcher Martin Persson will receive a scholarship award of 100 000 SEK from Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf's 50th Jubilee Fund.
Biochar has recently gained attention in scientific and popular media for its potential to sequester carbon and enhance soil fertility (World Bank 2014). There are also opportunities to improve energy efficiency through pyrolytic cookstoves, improve health through reduced indoor air pollution, and reduce drudgery through reduced need for firewood etc.