We have one planet and we need to take care of it. The changes in climate patterns are impacting our lives. We’ve seen how droughts in different parts of the world have led to famine or soaring food prices. As we prepare for international conferences such as Rio+20, the sessions offered under this theme will give you an opportunity to:

• discuss various climate change challenges and influence the messages which will be presented at different climate change  international conferences
• learn how different  parts of the world have embraced innovative recycling methods and creating new employment opportunities
• learn about environmental friendly farming methods and climate smart agriculture
• acquaint yourself with indigenous traditions to predict climate patterns

Biodiversity is the foundation of agricultural production. Like water or air, it’s not an exaggeration to say that agricultural biodiversity also is essential for humankind survival. Thousands of neglected and underutilized species (NUS) of crops offer tremendous opportunities for food and nutritional security and have the potential to improve rural people’s livelihoods. Listen to the stories from rural communities from all over the world to understand the importance of NUS and why it deserves greater attention. Be part of the new agricultural paradigm and become a NUS fan.

Rima Alcadi, Stefano Padulosi, Carla Pratesi, Álvaro Toledo
IFAD, Bioversity, Oxfam