Revolutionizing Agriculture: Exploring The Waterenergy-Food Nexus Through Agricultural Innovation And Circular Economy In Boreal Ecosystems

Dr. Aisha Abdullah Al-Hassan

School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Grenfell Campus, Corner Brook, NL, Canada


Abstract

The right to food stands prominently in international legal and policy frameworks, underpinned by guidelines like the UN's Rights to Adequate Food Guidelines, and is enshrined in numerous national constitutions and policies as a fundamental human right (Clapp et al, 2022). As the global population burgeons, the challenge of ensuring food provision looms large, with agriculture serving as the primary conduit for meeting this vital need. However, the practicalities of food production, processing, and distribution exert significant strain on resources such as water, energy, and land, sometimes verging on overexploitation. This complex interplay contributes to multifaceted challenges, including pollution and climate change (Mor et al, 2021). The centrality of agriculture to humanity and economies remains indisputable, serving as the bedrock for human existence, survival, and economic well-being. Beyond its primary function of providing sustenance, agriculture assumes a multifunctional role, bolstering the economies of nations, acting as a crucial source of employment, and supporting livelihoods, particularly in rural areas (World Bank, 2006, 2012). This abstract delves into the intricate relationship between the right to food, the challenges posed by global population growth, and the multifaceted impact of agriculture on ecosystems and economies. As the world grapples with the imperative of sustaining the right to food in an environmentally and socially responsible manner, this exploration aims to elucidate the intricate balance required for a sustainable and equitable future. Keywords