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Introduction: We speak with Caroline Starr, Agricultural Officer at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), on why modern agricultural production cannot develop in isolation from ecology, climate, and healthcare. Caroline explains how the “One Health” concept helps overcome systemic barriers and is becoming the foundation for the sustainable future of food systems.
On a Comprehensive Approach to Agriculture
— Caroline, there is a lot of talk today about the need for change in agriculture. Why are old management methods in the sector becoming ineffective?
— We make a major mistake by viewing agriculture as an isolated process. Today’s challenges—climate change, land degradation, and biodiversity loss—are inextricably linked to food production. Agriculture not only suffers from climate change but also contributes to it. If we do not transition to sustainable practices, we will jeopardize food security. The only way forward is to find harmony between production systems, nature, and humans.
On Innovations and Dialogue
— When we hear the word “innovation,” we often picture new technologies or machinery. What, in your view, is truly necessary to transform the industry?
— Innovation is a much more complex concept. It is not just about new gadgets; it is about innovation in policy—finding new subsidy mechanisms and changing management approaches. But perhaps most importantly, it is about innovation in communication. We need to create platforms for dialogue where farmers, scientists, and policymakers can truly hear one another.
— How can this process be made effective for a region like Central Asia?
— Central Asia has excellent scientific potential and many strong universities. We need to “build bridges.” Researchers must go out into the fields, listen to farmers, understand their real needs, and convey this data to decision-makers. This is a bottom-up approach, which ensures that the proposed solutions will work in practice rather than just remaining on paper.
On the “One Health” Concept
— Moving to the topic of “One Health,” which is one of the key pillars—how does this concept change our vision of the agri-food sector?
— “One Health” is the recognition that all systems are interconnected. Take the chain: the excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides leads to water contamination. Children drink this water, which leads to illnesses. Or another example: the misuse of antibiotics in livestock farming today creates the problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which we will face in ten years.
— What is the main challenge in implementing this approach?
— Siloed approaches. Right now, the Ministry of Agriculture focuses solely on production volumes, the Ministry of Ecology on environmental protection, and the Ministry of Health on treating the consequences. They often do not communicate with each other, which breeds segmented, ineffective policies.
“One Health” requires us to look beyond narrow institutional and departmental interests. We need to realize that any action taken in agriculture echoes in ecology and public health. It is a challenge, and it is difficult, but it is the only way to avert future crises. This requires an open mindset and a willingness to recognize the flaws of the entire system.
Shoira Toirova PR Consultant for the One Health Programе