The 2024 World AgriFood Innovation Conference (WAFI), co-hosted by China Agricultural University (CAU), the People's Government of Pinggu District, Beijing, and the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), was held from October 9 at Jin Ma Building, CAU, to October 12 in Pinggu, Beijing. Building on the successes of the 2023 event, WAFI 2024 reaffirmed that innovations and agrifood systems transformation remain central to the global agenda. The 2023 conference spurred stakeholders into action, resulting in the formation of networks, platforms, business partnerships, and the development of key data, knowledge, and flagship reports. These efforts have been instrumental in driving agrifood systems transformation at global, regional, and national levels. Following recommendations from the Conference Advisory Committee and participant feedback, WAFI 2024 focused on the critical theme of climate change and its impact on agrifood systems transformation.

WAFI 2024 attracted over 20,000 participants from 76 countries and regions, including 5,000 conference attendees and 15,000 Expo visitors, with more than 160 million joining via livestream. This diverse group comprised scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, government officials, farmers, and youth, with strong female representation. Participants engaged in meaningful discussions and exchanges, which culminated in the following consensus.

1.Recognizing that climate change poses one of the greatest threats to the global economy, food and nutrition security, livelihoodsand even the survival of humanity. Agriculture and food systems are particularly vulnerable. Research shows that for each 1°C rise in global temperature, global yields of wheat, rice, maize, and soybean could decrease by 6.0%, 3.2%, 7.4%, and 3.1% respectively. However, the impact of extreme weather events—such as droughts, floods, heatwaves, coldwaves, cyclones, and hurricanes—will likely be far greater than the effects of temperature increases alone. While agriculture and food systems are victims of climate change, they also provide critical, irreplaceable solutions, as the food system is responsible for 21-37% of total global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

2.Recognizing that the loss of biodiversity and natural resources is another critical threat to humanity's survival, food and nutrition security, livelihoods, and the health of the planet. Current agricultural and food systems are significant contributors to this decline. However, they can also be part of the solution by transforming these systems. Sustainable and regenerative agrifood systems, which prioritize the conservation of natural resources and biodiversity, are essential to reversing the global trend of biodiversity loss and "bending the curve" toward restoration.

3. Acknowledging that innovations in science and technology, policies, institutions, and business practices are critical to transforming agrifood systems, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring global food and nutrition security for all. Increasing investment in agrifood systems research and development (R&D) and setting clear priorities are essential steps. Various agencies of the United Nations, CGIAR, agricultural universities, research institutions, and agrifood businesses must commit to actions that promote healthy diets, improve environmental sustainability, and reduce carbon emissions — key components of agrifood systems transformation. In particular, CGIAR’s new research portfolio (2025-2030) should prioritize building strong partnerships with developing countries, including China, to realign agrifood systems toward supporting both human and planetary health. Major countries such as China, Brazil, India, Indonesia, and those across Africa must engage in CGIAR research programs. Partnerships should include national research institutes, universities, the agribusiness sector, and organizations representing women, youth, and farmers.

4. Reaffirming that entrepreneurs and the private sector must continue their commitment to agrifood systems transformation. Conference participants once again urge the private sector to integrate food security, nutrition and health, economic inclusion, empowerment and low-carbon sustainable development into their strategies and business practices. The private sector is requested to play an active role in fulfilling social responsibilities, particularly in improving nutrition and reducing carbon emissions, and to share responsible innovations as public goods. Furthermore, the private sector is encouraged to support, rather than oppose, government policies aimed at promoting healthy diets for their populations.

5. Reiterating that the youth are our future and their participation and engagement are crucial for the transformation of agrifood systems. Building on last year’s success, conference participants encourage the WAFI Youth Forum to continue serving as a focal point for enhancing exchanges and cooperation among young people in the United Nations, particularly in developing countries, with platforms and networks to express their voices, engage in high-level discourse, and take concrete actionsn to overcome barriers that hinder their full participation in agrifood systems, such as inadequate education and training, as well as limited access to critical resources like land, technology, and financing. One of the primary goals of the WAFI Youth Forum is to inspire young girls to pursue studies in science and technology, encouraging them to seek college and graduate degrees and careers in agricultural science and food technology.

6. Acknowledging that women play an irreplaceable role in the transformation of agrifood systems as crop cultivators, livestock keepers, processors, traders, and food preparers. Conference participants advocate for greater involvement of women in agrifood systems dialogues to ensure their empowerment and that they benefit from these transformations. The conference proposes the establishment of a network or platform that encompasses women from smallholder farms, food traders and processors, business firms, and research institutes, fostering collaboration and support for women's contributions to agrifood systems transformation.

7. Considering reducing animal source food (ASF) consumption or exploraing alternatives in contexts where ASF intake exceeds recommended levels, alongside improving production practices. At the same time, ensuring access to sustainably produced ASF for those at high risk of undernutrition is imperative. While trade-offs may arise, these transitions are essential for advancing both nutrition and environmental sustainability, ensuring no one is left behind.

8. Appealing for Action by National and Sub-National Governments: Governments at all levels must lead and commit to scaling sustainable food systems innovations. Strong leadership is crucial for driving the widespread adoption of best practices across agricultural value chains, thereby ensuring long-term food security and environmental sustainability.

9. Recommending that WAFI continue to be held annually in Pinggu at a similar time each year to ensure momentum, contributing to agrifood systems transformation at the local, regional, and global levels.