Thu Oct 17 00:05:02 UTC 2024: ## IAEA and FAO Celebrate World Food Day: Atoms4Food Initiative Tackles Global Hunger

**Vienna, Austria -** The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) joined forces to celebrate World Food Day, focusing on the theme “right to foods for a better life and a better future.” The agencies highlighted their joint Atoms4Food initiative, a crucial tool in tackling global hunger and ensuring food security.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stressed the need for collaborative action in a world facing increasing food insecurity. He noted that the Atoms4Food initiative provides member states with support in areas like soil and water management, pest control, and crop production.

“Our responsibility goes beyond policy—it’s to deal with the problem,” said Grossi. “Addressing the problems that science reveals is paramount.”

The IAEA and FAO have a 60-year partnership, exemplified by the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture. This center provides countries with the tools and training to implement nuclear techniques for stronger, healthier, and more nutritious crops. It also assists in building sustainable food systems resilient to climate change.

FAO Director General Qu Dongyu emphasized the importance of the collaboration between the two agencies. “Only these two organizations in the UN system… have enjoyed more than 60 years of physical collaboration,” he stated.

The Atoms4Food initiative leverages nuclear science to address key challenges:

* **Boosting Crop Yields:** The IAEA is working with scientists to develop drought-resistant and pest-resistant crop varieties through mutation breeding.
* **Climate-Smart Agriculture:** Nuclear techniques help farmers in Kenya improve their planting practices and utilize water resources more sustainably.
* **Food Safety:** Techniques like food irradiation ensure food safety and minimize food loss.
* **Sterile Insect Technique (SIT):** This environmentally friendly method controls agricultural pests, reducing crop losses.
* **Tackling Malnutrition:** The IAEA provides countries with the necessary equipment and training to combat malnutrition using nuclear techniques.

The IAEA and FAO are committed to expanding the use of innovative nuclear techniques to create more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems for a better future.

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