We are in the midst of a global food and climate crisis
Until 2014, hunger had been declining for a decade, but climate change, conflict, and economic downturns have halted this trend. Between 691 and 783 million people are estimated to have experienced regular hunger in 2022. The World Bank estimates that climate change could force an additional 100 million people into extreme poverty and hunger by 2030, and unchecked climate change could cost us $178 trillion from 2021 - 2070.
The world experienced USD$2.8 trillion in loss and damage from climate change from 2000 to 2019, equating to USD$16 million per hour. In the next 30 years, food supply and food security will be devastatingly threatened if insufficient action is taken to address climate change.
As systems thinkers, we understand that issues are not one-dimensional; quick, band-aid solutions to one problem often increase the risk of other problems. Food security is not merely about producing enough food; it encompasses a complex web of factors, including accessibility, affordability, nutritional value, and stability of supply. Resilient food systems go beyond immediate needs, focusing on the ability to adapt and recover in the face of shocks or stresses.
Why this campaign?
Canada has made important commitments to address climate change’s impact on developing countries, including a doubling of its international climate finance, from $2.65 billion (2015−2021) to $5.3 billion (2021−2026). Canada has also committed to increasing its aid budget each year to 2030.
We want to ensure that Canada delivers on these commitments, while making additional investments in Loss and Damage initiatives and prioritizing resilient food systems in the Global South to enable those most vulnerable to climate change to have sustainable livelihoods.
Engineers Without Borders Canada and Canadian Foodgrains Bank are joining forces on this campaign to bring attention to the important ways science and engineering build resiliency to climate change in food systems, and ultimately, improve people's lives and end hunger.
Add your voice for change now!
About
In our increasingly tech-driven world, many remain excluded from its benefits. At Engineers Without Borders Canada, we recognize that technology alone can’t drive real and lasting change. True progress requires a holistic approach, considering cultural, behavioral, and political factors. We value insights from those who understand these issues, and believe that they are key to effective solutions. We share the tech community’s vision: technology should uplift people and the planet. With this ethos, we leverage engineering and technology to create a more equitable and sustainable future. Join us in making engineered technology a force for good – for people, and for the planet. Learn more.
Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of 15 Canadian churches and church-based agencies working together to end global hunger. We work with locally based organizations in developing countries to meet emergency food needs, achieve long-term solutions to hunger and work to foster informed action by Canadians and governments to support this international cause. Learn more.