Climate-Resilient Food Systems

We support research that fosters more equitable, inclusive and sustainable food systems around the world. Our work helps these systems better withstand climate shocks, support the health of people in both urban and rural areas and empower communities through more inclusive governance.

Research to drive food systems transformation

From escalating impacts of climate change to increasing conflict and inequality, today’s food systems face intense pressure — while communities struggle to overcome connected challenges like food insecurity, malnutrition, obesity and more.

To build resilience against these interrelated threats, we’re helping to build transformative connections between ideas, sectors and communities and creating fertile ground for greater exchanges of knowledge and information.

We believe resilience isn’t just about surviving climate shocks and other emerging threats; it’s about redesigning food systems to be more just, sustainable and responsive to the needs of communities and their environments.

Our areas of focus

“I like doing research, but if it doesn't reach the stage where individuals benefit directly from it, then there isn't much of a point. Academics are done working on their own.”

Amos Laar, professor of public health nutrition at the University of Ghana and Principal Investigator for two IDRC-supported food systems projects in Ghana.

Chloé Alramamneh

Rooted in local expertise and inclusive leadership

Local knowledge and partnerships are at the core of helping food systems become more just, sustainable and responsive to the needs of communities and their environments. Working alongside researchers, knowledge holders and communities, we co-create solutions that:

prioritize gender equality and inclusion, with a focus on smallholder farmers, marginalized or vulnerable communities and Indigenous peoples;
support practical innovations that help food systems adapt and thrive under pressure;
foster collaboration among researchers, decision-makers and implementers to impact policy and drive evidence-based actions to scale impact and drive long-term change.

Learn more about how we work