The Role of Eco-Innovation in Achieving Climate Neutral Food Systems: The Middle East and North Africa Perspective
摘要
Eco-innovation is an emerging transformative technology, aiming to reduce the negative environmental impacts industries have. The aim of this chapter is to explore the critical role of eco-innovation in addressing global challenges such as climate change and food insecurity. Interconnected challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and growing populations highlight the need for systemic reforms to mitigate climate impacts and improve food system resilience. The four case studies from the MENA region demonstrate the importance of integrating eco-innovation across industries can drive socio-economic growth, competitive advantage, and ultimately help environmental preservation. The chapter highlights key strategies such as the adoption of green technologies, fostering public–private partnerships, implementing sustainable leadership, and promoting customer engagement. Furthermore, emphasising the importance of regulatory frameworks, financial incentives, and robust stakeholder collaboration in fostering sustainable practices. It also identifies challenges such as the inequitable access to technologies and the necessity of stakeholder engagement in emerging economies. Practices such as transitioning to plant-based diets, reducing food waste, and creating resilient food systems are also examined, underscoring the necessity of aligning organisational values with consumer expectations and beliefs for environmental responsibility. For emerging economies, improving technology accessibility is a step towards the effective integration of sustainable solutions; by investing in eco-technology infrastructure and offering training towards the same, these measures can create an environment that serves as a catalyst for innovation, thus addressing region-specific environmental challenges. The chapter concludes by advocating for a holistic approach balancing environmental, social, and economic priorities to work towards the SDGs and achieve global sustainability.