Integrating SDGS in legal frameworks to enhance climate resilience in food systems for sustainable development

Abstract

The increasing effects of climate change on global food systems call for well-thought-out legal actions. The study investigates the interplay between climate change, legal frameworks, and sustainable food production, emphasizing how laws can facilitate or obstruct sustainability objectives. It begins by addressing the challenges that climate change imposes on food cultivation, distribution, and security, underscoring the vulnerability of agricultural sectors to climatic fluctuations and the ensuing risks to food availability and accessibility, which are crucial to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The research proceeds with a comprehensive evaluation of existing global, national, and local legal mechanisms and policies, assessing their effectiveness in promoting sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. A critical component of this analysis is identifying deficiencies within legal frameworks that hinder the achievement of SDG objectives related to sustainable agricultural practices and climate initiatives. The paper examines aligning food-related laws with environmental sustainability principles and proposes amendments to current regulations and new policy recommendations for improved outcomes. In conclusion, the paper underscores the necessity of integrating SDG principles into legal structures to enhance the resilience of food systems against climate change. © 2024, Centro de Investigaciones Energeticas Medioambientales y Tecnologicas (CIEMAT). All rights reserved.