The ongoing 2024 World Agrifood Innovation Conference (WAFI 2024) is setting a new standard for sustainability in agrifood systems. With around 800 experts from over 70 countries and regions, the conference is dedicated to promoting a low-carbon transition through scientific and technological innovation.
One of the standout initiatives is the introduction of plantable leaflets made from renewable resources and embedded with seeds. Attendees are encouraged to soak these leaflets, plant them in soil, and watch flowers bloom, transforming traditional conference materials from disposable to sustainable. \"It's a way to promote waste reuse and environmental protection,\" said Xing Luting from the Shanghai Agricultural Sci-tech Service Center.
Ravindra Dekate from India, focused on waste reuse, highlighted the longevity these leaflets now have compared to conventional single-use materials. The conference venue is also dotted with low-carbon tips, including the use of reusable bottles, prioritizing public transport, and opting for digital documents, all aimed at minimizing the environmental footprint.
Fu Wenge, secretary-general of the advisory board and a professor at China Agricultural University (CAU), emphasized the commitment to a green conference model. \"China is a strong advocate for green and sustainable development, and green practices should permeate all aspects of life and work, including conferences,\" he stated. Fu added, \"Holding a conference with a green concept is a good opportunity to showcase how China demonstrates its low-carbon philosophy through practical actions.\"
Sustainability extends to the dining experience at WAFI 2024, with a buffet offering a variety of plant-based options. DeePro Technology, a Chinese food tech company, provides plant-protein meat substitutes that replace 60 to 70 percent of traditional meat in dishes like sauced beef and luncheon meat. James Sharp from the UK Department for Business and Trade praised the initiative, noting its potential to inspire lasting changes among attendees.
Zhang Wei, founder of DeePro Technology, highlighted the dual benefits of their plant-based proteins in addressing food shortages and reducing the carbon footprint of animal agriculture. Additionally, 90 percent of the food served is locally sourced, further minimizing transportation-induced emissions.
The conference also featured a low-carbon-themed recreational running campaign to encourage sustainable lifestyles among participants. \"Our concept for the conference is to go green in every aspect,\" Fu stressed, underscoring the importance of raising awareness about sustainability to achieve transformative change.
Since its inception in 2023, WAFI has aimed to be a premier platform for global agrifood innovation, co-organized by the government of Pinggu District of Beijing, Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, CAU, and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
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Plantable leaflets showcase low-carbon concept at WAFI 2024 conference
cgtn.com