Ismahane Elouafi

“In a few years, if we don't stop what we're doing to planet earth, we would all be living in marginal environments.”

“It is doable to make these lands productive but it requires investment in research and in science.”

“Marginal environments are going to be the norm of tomorrow, so we'd better be ready for it and have solutions.”

“our goal is to ensure that farmers enjoy better livelihoods. Today, they remain at the bottom of the income pyramid, receiving the least reward for their hard work. By improving productivity and enhancing the nutritional value of what is produced, we can create stronger economies and ensure that these benefits reach small-scale producers worldwide.”

“From an environmental perspective, science and technology offer many ways to reduce our impact—whether in greenhouse gas emissions, water use, or soil management. Agriculture currently consumes most of the world’s freshwater and emits about 30% of greenhouse gases, yet it employs 4.5 billion people. Scientific innovation can make agri-food systems more sustainable through resilient crop varieties, improved farming practices, and technologies that boost productivity while lowering carbon and water footprints.”

“Science and innovation can greatly improve nutrition. Although over 6,000 plant species are cultivated for food, fewer than 200 dominate global production, and just 9 provide 66% of all crops. This limited genetic base reduces nutritional diversity. Expanding the use of neglected and underused species through technology can boost both food variety and environmental health.”