Nexus among climate change, food systems, and human health: An interdisciplinary research framework in the Global South

Abstract

This article unravels the intricate connections between climate change, food systems, and human health, offering a comprehensive exploration within a concise framework focused on the Global South. The contemporary crisis stemming from the mass production model, emphasising climate change and public health repercussions, is a focal point. We highlight food production as an important driver of climate change, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Livestock and staple crops exert varied environmental impacts. We scrutinise the implications of land-use changes, emphasising the imperative to curtail agricultural expansion into forested areas. Central to our analysis is the role of governance systems. We advocate for a multi-level, polycentric governance approach integrating health considerations with ecology and socio-economic drivers. By exploring the nuances of gender, age, and ethnicity, we underscore the need for a climate transition guided by climate justice principles. Finally, we discuss methodological challenges in researching the complex nexus of food systems, climate change, and health. We navigate the limitations of disciplinary boundaries and traditional analytical methods, urging an interdisciplinary approach for a comprehensive understanding. Our work aims to contribute to a holistic perspective, informing policy-making and action to build a resilient and sustainable future, especially in the Global South.