Where climate and biodiversity objectives reinforce one another

24 October 2026. Beyond the Climate Lens: What Food and Agriculture Policy Can Miss

What happens when climate becomes the dominant lens through which we shape food and agriculture policy? Climate action is essential, but measures designed to reduce emissions or build climate resilience do not necessarily protect biodiversity or strengthen the wider food system. 

This participatory session asked whether we are designing agricultural policies to deliver multiple environmental benefits, or simply hoping these benefits will follow. Through discussion, participants explored where climate and biodiversity objectives reinforce one another, where trade-offs emerge, and how policy, funding and practice can better reflect the full range of environmental and social priorities.

• Anita Diederichsen Forest Landscape Restoration Global Lead, WWF
• Willem Ferwerda Founder, Commonland
• Lulseged Tamene Desta Director, Multifunctional Landscapes Science Program, CGIAR
• Cargele Masso Principal Scientist, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
• Niklas Wagner Researcher, Environmental Governance Department, German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS)
• Terence Hay-Edie Advisory Manager, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)