Solving challenges related to agriculture also requires adopting the One Health approach, Azerbaijan's Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov stated told a roundtable discussion on "One Health Approach: Enhancing Cross-sectoral Cooperation for Human Development" held within the framework of COP29 in Baku, Report informs.
"Agriculture is not only the foundation of food security but also a crucial factor in climate adaptation and mitigation. However, this sector faces serious challenges. Soil degradation, water scarcity, and the spread of zoonotic diseases threaten our global food systems. To address these, we must integrate sustainable practices into our agricultural systems, promote biodiversity, and strengthen rural community resilience. These goals align with the main targets of the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative," Mammadov emphasized.
According to him, solving these challenges requires adopting the One Health approach and promoting cross-sectoral cooperation: "In this sense, researchers, policymakers, farmers, veterinarians, and public health specialists must work together. We can develop policies that protect biodiversity, minimize disease risks, and promote responsible land and water management."