Food Production’s Fossil Fuel Dependency Threatens Climate Goals: Solutions and Innovations Explored
Food systems play a dual role in the global climate crisis, both depending on and affecting climate change. Currently, more than one-third of total greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to food production, making it a crucial area to address in order to keep global warming below 1.5°C (2.7°F). A new report by the Global Alliance for the Future of Food (GAFF) emphasizes the need to reduce the dependency of food production on fossil fuels.
The interdependence between food and energy systems is undeniable. Food production and processing are significantly energy-intensive and rely heavily on fossil fuels throughout the entire supply chain, from land use to retail. While it may seem logical to simply reduce the production of ultra-processed and packaged foods, the solution is not that straightforward.
One of the most energy-intensive and fossil fuel-dependent stages of food production is the use of conventional fertilizers, particularly synthetic nitrogen. Synthetic nitrogen fertilizers are based on ammonia, which releases around 450 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. Furthermore, the International Energy Agency predicts that ammonia production could surge by almost 40% by 2050, driven by the growing global population and increased food demand.
To address this challenge, bio-based solutions offer hope. Bio-fertilizers and alternative pest-control practices, such as the peptide insecticide developed by Vestaron, show promise in reducing fossil fuel dependence in agriculture. Synthetic biology is also being explored as a means to meet sustainable food demand. By combining machine learning, artificial intelligence, and biology, synthetic biology can contribute to the development of advanced biofuels, bio-products, renewable chemicals, and bio-based specialty chemicals.
Food waste is another significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In the United States alone, almost 30% of produced food goes to waste, leading to a further increase in emissions. However, there are cost-effective and sustainable solutions available. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) can convert food waste into usable energy, such as biofuels. Additionally, genetic modification of crops and produce can reduce unnecessary food waste by making them last longer and have better appearance.
Innovation also plays a role in capturing and transforming carbon waste into useful products. LanzaTech, for instance, has developed carbon capture technology that recycles carbon waste through a fermentation process, producing fabrics, foams, and packaging materials. By leveraging gas fermentation, LanzaTech aims to accelerate the production of various chemicals.
While biotech companies are working on innovative solutions, the report emphasizes the need for governments of wealthy nations to take a proactive approach and demonstrate leadership. Moving away from heavily processed and unhealthy food products not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also has hidden health costs. Adopting plant-rich diets that are minimally processed can benefit both communities and the climate.
In conclusion, addressing the fossil fuel dependency in food production is critical for achieving climate goals. Bio-based solutions, genetic modification, and carbon capture technologies all offer promising avenues for reducing emissions and ensuring a sustainable food system. However, it is essential for governments and individuals to actively support these innovations and transition towards healthier and climate-friendly diets. Only through collective action can we effectively tackle the challenges posed by food production’s impact on the climate.
