Introduction: Why the ASEAN region must decarbonise its food systems
The ASEAN region faces a defining climate challenge: transforming food systems to lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while maintaining food security and rural livelihoods. Building on the momentum of the Paris Agreement, ASEAN countries can reduce emissions across farming, processing, distribution, and consumption. This article outlines practical opportunities for policymakers, farmers, businesses, and consumers to accelerate decarbonisation in ways that are affordable, equitable, and resilient.
Key sources of emissions and where to target action
Food systems contribute to climate impact at multiple stages: enteric fermentation in ruminant livestock, rice paddies, fertilizer use, land-use change, and energy-intensive processing and cold chains. In ASEAN, methane from enteric fermentation and paddy rice emissions are especially significant. There is also a notable opportunity to cut emissions through improvements in post-harvest handling, storage, and logistics. Targeted action across inputs, technologies, and governance can drive reductions while boosting productivity and farmer incomes.
Policy levers: creating the right framework for change
Effective decarbonisation hinges on policy alignment. ASEAN can deploy fiscal incentives for low-emission farming, support climate-smart crop choices, and promote resilient rural infrastructure. Policies that encourage data collection, transparent supply chains, and measurement of emissions at farm and processor levels help households and businesses make informed choices. Subnational pilots and regional knowledge-sharing bolster scale-up and reduce risk for smallholders.
Low-emission farming and livestock management
Adopting nutrient- and energy-efficient practices, improved manure management, and better genetics can reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions. For livestock, feed additives and improved pasture management offer near-term gains. For rice systems, water management and alternative cultivation techniques can cut methane emissions while maintaining yields.
Decarbonising processing and logistics
Renewable energy-powered processing, cold chains, and transport reduce fossil fuel use across the supply chain. Regions can prioritise energy efficiency, modern storage facilities, and the electrification of agri-processing where feasible. Public-private partnerships can mobilise investment for infrastructure upgrades that also support food safety and shelf-life.
<h2 Nature-based and landscape-friendly solutions
Protecting and restoring forests, wetlands, and peatlands can curb emissions from land-use change and offer co-benefits like biodiversity and water regulation. Integrated landscape approaches that combine agroforestry with crop production help diversify income streams, increase soil carbon storage, and reduce vulnerability to climate shocks.
<h2 Innovations, finance, and implementation pathways
Technology and finance are central to ASEAN’s decarbonisation journey. Data platforms for emissions tracking, climate-smart advisory services for farmers, and green financing mechanisms can de-risk investments in sustainable farming and supply chain upgrades. Regional finance facilities and blended finance instruments can mobilise private capital while ensuring affordability for smallholders.
Consumer roles and behavioural shifts
Demand-side changes—such as lower meat consumption, plant-forward dishes, and preferences for locally produced foods—can drive decarbonisation from households. Nutrition and dietary guidelines that emphasise sustainable foods, coupled with transparent product labelling, empower consumers to make greener choices without compromising nutrition.
Toward a just and resilient transition
Equity is essential. Smallholders, women, and vulnerable communities must be included in planning and benefit-sharing. Training, extension services, and fair access to markets and finance ensure a just transition where climate goals align with poverty reduction and rural development.
Conclusion: A regional call to action
Decarbonising ASEAN food systems is not a single technology choice but a spectrum of policy, practice, and market reforms. By aligning incentives, investing in resilient infrastructure, and encouraging sustainable consumption, ASEAN can lower emissions while safeguarding food security and rural livelihoods for generations to come.
