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CS Global ESG Research Summary

Core Content

This report from Credit Suisse discusses the challenges and potential solutions for creating a more sustainable global food system. It emphasizes the need for changes in both food production and consumption to align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG1, SDG2, and SDG3, which address hunger, food security, and health respectively. The report outlines the dual burden of malnutrition, highlighting both undernourishment and the rising prevalence of overweight and obesity, and underscores the environmental impact of the current food system, including greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and biodiversity loss.

Main Challenges

The Double Burden of Malnutrition

• Undernourishment: Approximately 700 million people are undernourished, with projections indicating this number could rise to 840 million by 2030.
• Overweight and Obesity: About 40% of adults globally are overweight or obese, with this figure exceeding 60% in developed countries. Diet-related risks are responsible for over 20% of adult deaths and account for 35 million years of life lost in 2019.
• Economic Costs: The global cost of undernourishment is estimated at over US$8 trillion annually, with Asia accounting for about US$7 trillion. Overweight-related costs are around US$5 trillion annually and are expected to grow.

Environmental Impact of Food

• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The food system contributes over 20% of global GHG emissions, with meat-based diets being the most impactful.
• Water Usage: Food production accounts for 92% of global freshwater consumption. Meat, cheese, and other animal products are particularly water-intensive.
• Biodiversity and Land Use: Agriculture uses 50% of habitable land, and deforestation has increased significantly, affecting carbon capture and biodiversity.

Potential Solutions

A Change in Diet

• A shift towards plant-based diets is seen as essential for sustainability.
• Plant-based diets can reduce emission intensity by up to 90% and potentially lower adult premature deaths by 11 million annually.
• The market for alternative meat and dairy is projected to grow from US$14 billion to US$1.4 trillion by 2050.

Agricultural Innovation

• Digital Agriculture: Technologies such as precision farming, vertical farming, and smart irrigation can improve productivity and reduce environmental impact.
• Circular Economy: Solutions like food waste recycling, smart packaging, and improved storage and cooling systems can reduce food loss and waste.
• Sustainable Practices: Companies are adopting strategies to reduce emissions, improve water efficiency, and ensure responsible sourcing.

Key Companies in the Sustainable Food Sector

Europe

North and South America

Asia

Conclusion

The report concludes that a transition towards a more sustainable food system is crucial for both human health and environmental protection. This involves changes in diet, the adoption of digital and circular economy solutions in agriculture, and the involvement of key companies that are driving innovation in the food sector. The analysis highlights the importance of investor engagement and the potential for significant growth in sustainable food technologies and products.