Exploring how climate-smart policies and agricultural innovations are reshaping food systems, advancing sustainability, and protecting food security in a warming world.

Description

As climate change disrupts agricultural productivity, water availability, and food supply chains, the pressure to transform food systems has never been greater. This event brings together leaders in agricultural policy, climate science, sustainable food production, and innovation to examine how governments, institutions, and producers are responding to the dual challenge of feeding a growing population while reducing environmental impact. Panelists will explore cutting-edge policies and practices shaping the future of farming from regenerative agriculture and soil carbon markets to government-backed climate adaptation programs and AI-driven crop modeling. Discussions will also address the political and economic realities of implementing change, as well as the trade-offs and opportunities involved in shifting to more resilient, climate-aligned food systems.

Speakers

Sterling H. Burnett

Director, Arthur B. Robinson Center on Climate and Environmental Policy at The Heartland Institute

John Piotti

President and Chief Executive Officer, American Farmland Trust

Virginia Antonioli

Senior Sustainable Food Systems Manager, WRI Brasil

Nichelle Harriott

Policy Director, HEAL Food Alliance

Zane Swanson

Center for Strategic and International Studies, Deputy Director, Global Food and Water Security Program

Jack Kittinger

Senior Vice President, Center for Regenerative Economies, Conservation International

Guided Questions

John Piotti

Your leadership at AFT highlights agriculture’s role in climate action. Since regenerative practices alone aren’t enough, how can climate strategies better integrate farmland protection and farmer retention to scale agriculture as a climate solution?

Virginia Antonioli

Your work at WRI Brasil centers on sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient food systems. How can your cross-sector experience help shape integrated policies for a just, practical shift at the climate–agriculture nexus?

Nichelle Harriott

Your leadership has championed sustainable agriculture and uplifted frontline communities and BIPOC producers. How can climate justice frameworks shape national food and farm policy to support workers, empower BIPOC producers, and drive equity in the food system?

Zane Swanson

Given your expertise in food insecurity and human biology, how can agricultural biodiversity and AI technologies be combined to improve food security in rapidly urbanizing, vulnerable areas?

Jack Kittinger

With your expertise in regenerative economies, how can sustainable production in food, fiber, and fisheries be scaled to restore nature and biodiversity, and what role do corporate partnerships play?

Sterling H. Burnett

Based on your experience with environmental policy in think tanks, advisory boards, and task forces, what do you see as the best climate resilience and adaptation strategies that balance environmental protection, economic freedom, and energy security?