Promoting transformative adaptation to climate change in food systems

This Discussion Note outlines how USAID staff can support partner countries in pursuing these transformative efforts. By supporting transformative adaptation, USAID aims to help vulnerable regions make proactive, large-scale changes, aligning with the goals of the US Global Food Security Strategy. Under the context of climate change disrupting both the production and distribution of food, creating price hikes and shortages in food systems that are already straining to equitably provide sufficient nutritious food, many communities and countries are interested in pursuing transformative adaptation-efforts that go beyond coping strategies to seek large-scale, systemic changes that can help prepare for a future that is significantly different than the present. This approach is vital to ensuring food security in the face of climate change.

This note reveals the importance of protecting food systems from climate change is a critical priority, given how much food touches nearly all aspects of our lives. Working with partners to foster large-scale change in the system is also considered critical. It helps USAID achieve goals related to food security, nutrition, health, sustainable land use, inclusive market systems, private sector engagement, localization, and women’s empowerment.