In December 2023, in the presence of representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, local authorities of Mionica, the Chamber of Commerce of Serbia, agricultural producers, members of the Kolubara biodistrict, academic institutions and the Office of the Permanent Coordinator of the United Nations (UN) in Serbia, the project “From grain to sustainability” was officially launched – food systems for all”. This project represents the continuation of cooperation between the United Nations and the Ministry of Agriculture with the aim of transforming the food systems in Serbia.
Deputy Regional Representative of FAO for Europe and Central Asia, Nabil Gangi, addressed the public. He emphasized that food systems in the region are facing major challenges. According to him, these challenges include stress on land and water resources, climate change, conflicts and economic inequalities. He pointed out that the project “From grains to sustainability – food systems for all” is proof that the transformation of those systems is possible and has already begun. The goal of the project is to advance the four goals of sustainable development in Serbia: elimination of hunger, gender equality, responsible consumption and production, as well as environmental protection.
The project will accelerate Serbia’s progress in the transformation of food systems by strengthening inter-institutional mechanisms for efficient implementation, adopting production methods that are in harmony with nature, as well as sustainable resource management. Also, the project focuses on an inclusive and gender-sensitive biodistrict model.
Development of biodistricts – the future of Serbia
Biodistricts are geographical areas based on the principles of organic agriculture. According to these principles, farmers, citizens, tourism and hospitality sectors, educational and scientific institutions, public institutions and associations cooperate with the aim of developing sustainable local food systems, improving resource management and promoting economic development. Within this project, special attention will be devoted to strengthening the functioning of the Kolubara biodistrict, the first such biodistrict in Serbia and Southeast Europe.
Boban Janković, president of the municipality of Mionica, pointed out that the project represents a significant step towards a sustainable future and the promotion of healthy, organic food, and that it affects the development of the community through the connection of local producers, institutions and international partners.
This one-year project is financed by the Joint SDG Fund. It is financed with the support of the European Union and numerous international partners. In Serbia, it is implemented by FAO, UNEP, UN Women and UNECE, in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management.
Source: Agronews
See also: Kolubara Biodistrict – it is possible!
Source: boljazemlja.com
