Library | ESG issues

Food Systems

Food systems encompass all processes and activities involved in producing, processing, distributing, and consuming food. They have a significant impact on population health and the environment, with key challenges including food security, food waste, nutrition-related diseases, and environmental degradation. Investors can assess companies based on factors such as sustainable sourcing, climate impact, sustainable farming practices, and regulatory compliance.

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Chatham House

Finance / Corporate Focused NGOs & Think Tanks
Chatham House, known formally as Royal Institute of International Affairs, is an independent policy institute in London. It delivers rigorous research, analysis and dialogue on global issues—such as international relations, climate change, security and economics. Its mission: help governments and societies build a sustainably secure, prosperous and just world.
Organisation

Unlocking the sustainable transition for agribusiness

United Nations Environment Programme
This report examines how entrenched political and market structures hinder agribusinesses from transitioning to sustainable models. It identifies three systemic “lock-ins” and outlines how policy reforms, financial incentives, and political commitment can unlock agribusiness potential to drive food system transformation at scale and pace.
Research
1 July 2025

GHG protocol agricultural guidance: Interpreting the corporate accounting and reporting standard for the agricultural sector

World Resources Institute
The GHG protocol agricultural guidance provides a framework for agricultural companies to develop greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories aligned with the Corporate Standard. It offers sector-specific methodologies to account for direct and indirect emissions, carbon stock changes, and unique agricultural factors such as land use change and biological processes. The guidance enhances consistency, transparency, and usability of agricultural GHG data for decision-making and reporting.
Research
26 May 2014

Opportunities for methane mitigation in agriculture: Technological, economic, and regulatory considerations

World Resources Institute
This report assesses cost-effective methods to reduce methane emissions from enteric fermentation, manure management, and rice cultivation. It outlines region-specific strategies and underscores the need for research, regulatory frameworks, and cross-sector collaboration to support implementation and scale-up of mitigation solutions.
Research
5 March 2025

University of Adelaide

Academic Institutions
The University of Adelaide, established in 1874, is Australia's third-oldest university and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight. Ranked among the top 100 globally, it offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Located in Adelaide, South Australia, the university is renowned for its research excellence and vibrant campus life.
Organisation
1 research item

The triple gap in finance for agrifood systems

Climate Policy Initiative
This report identifies significant planning, finance, and data gaps in climate investment needed to transition global agrifood systems. Annual climate finance must increase by at least 40 times to USD 1.1 trillion by 2030. Current national commitments underestimate actual requirements, highlighting the need for clearer targets and improved data collection.
Research
19 November 2024

Ceres' food emissions 50 company benchmark

Ceres
The Food Emissions 50 Company Benchmark evaluates major North American food companies on greenhouse gas emissions disclosures, reduction targets, and climate transition plans. It highlights progress in reporting scope 3 emissions and setting science-based targets, while identifying areas needing improvement, such as aligning growth strategies with emissions goals.
Benchmark/series

Climate risk and adaptation in global food

First Sentier Investors
The report outlines rising climate risks to global food supply chains, projecting up to $38 trillion in damages by 2050. It explores mitigation and adaptation strategies across crops, livestock, and fisheries, and highlights investor actions to build resilience, support sustainable practices, and adapt to shifting market, environmental, and regulatory conditions.
Research
10 April 2025

Accountability Framework

The Accountability Framework guides financial institutions on how to establish policies for responsible lending and investment in the food, agribusiness, and forestry sectors. It also helps financial institutions to screen and engage their clients and portfolios to fulfil these policies. It also assists with assessing environmental and social risk and performance in investment portfolios, and supports company engagement.
Online tool/database
29 February 2024

Leveraging food security and environmental sustainability in achieving Sustainable Development Goals: Evidence from a global perspective

The study investigates the relationship between food security, environmental sustainability, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 63 countries from 2010–2021. Key findings highlight that promoting agricultural exports, sustainable farming, and reducing food imports positively impact economic growth and alleviate poverty. Environmental degradation negatively affects growth, affirming the need for green policies to achieve SDGs inclusively.
Research
12 September 2024

Global Food and Nutrition Security Dashboard

The Global Food and Nutrition Security Dashboard, developed by the World Bank, G7, and partners, offers timely, high-quality data on food crises at both country and global levels. It provides insights into food insecurity, nutrition, and related indicators, supporting informed decision-making and policy development.
Online tool/database

Transition today: A progress update - How investors can support climate transition across portfolios

Mercer
The report explores how investors can support climate transitions through decarbonisation, alignment with transition pathways, and investments in climate solutions. It emphasises systemic risks, scope 3 emissions, and capital mobilisation to developing economies, offering actionable strategies to integrate climate goals into investment portfolios.
Research
1 November 2024

Adapt now: A global call for leadership on climate resilience

World Resources Institute
The report highlights the urgent need for global climate adaptation. It presents evidence and solutions across key sectors—food, water, infrastructure, cities, and finance—emphasising economic benefits, social equity, and environmental preservation. This call to action seeks transformative planning, finance mobilisation, and inclusive leadership for a resilient future.
Research
14 September 2019

Identifying natural capital risks and opportunities as part of designing an investment engagement strategy

Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
This report helps investors integrate nature-related considerations into their investment strategies. It provides frameworks and methodologies for assessing biodiversity impacts and dependencies, promoting sustainable investment practices.
Research
8 May 2021

The Good Food Institute (GFI)

Issue Focused NGOs & Think Tanks
Good Food Institute (GFI) is a nonprofit think tank advancing plant-based, cultivated, and fermentation-derived proteins to create a sustainable, secure, and just global food system. By promoting alternative proteins, GFI aims to reduce environmental impact, enhance global health, and improve food security.
Organisation
1 research item

Asian cropportunities: Supplying raw materials for plant-based meat

Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)
This report highlights Asia's potential to supply raw materials for the plant-based meat industry. Key ingredients such as soy, wheat, and alternative crops like konjac and jackfruit are evaluated for their nutritional, environmental, and economic potential in Asian markets. The report suggests ways Asian countries can leverage local crops and production capacities to meet growing demand, boosting food security and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Research
5 December 2020
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