The IAEA and FAO recently celebrated the 60th anniversary of their Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, marking a significant milestone in the use of nuclear science to address agricultural challenges. The event, held during the 2024 IAEA Ministerial Conference, brought together high-level representatives from around the world, including leaders from the FAO and IAEA, to reflect on the achievements of the Centre and discuss future initiatives.
Over the past six decades, the partnership between the IAEA and FAO has played a crucial role in advancing agricultural productivity and promoting global food security. In the face of growing challenges such as food insecurity and climate change, the collaboration has leveraged nuclear science to develop innovative solutions that improve food systems globally. The Joint Centre has been instrumental in applying nuclear and isotopic techniques to increase agricultural efficiency, enhance crop resilience, and improve sustainable farming practices.
The Centre’s work dates back to the mid-1960s when it contributed to the Green Revolution, particularly in Asia. Through the development of isotopic tracers, the Centre helped rice-producing countries optimize fertilizer use, significantly boosting yields. Additionally, nuclear techniques have been used to promote plant mutation, resulting in the development of more adaptable crop varieties. These innovations have had a lasting impact on global food production, helping countries to grow more food with fewer resources.
In recent years, the IAEA and FAO have focused on addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Initiatives like sending seeds into space to develop crops that can withstand extreme conditions have demonstrated the potential of nuclear science in tackling the climate crisis. Isotopic techniques have also been used in countries like Laos to improve nutrient management and increase rice yields, contributing to food security in the region.
The success of the FAO-IAEA collaboration is not limited to crop production. The partnership has also had a significant impact on animal health and pest control. One of the notable successes was the eradication of the tsetse fly in Zanzibar in 1996, using the sterile insect technique. This achievement not only helped control the spread of nagana, a disease that affects livestock, but also revitalized local economies and improved human health.
The ongoing Atoms4Food initiative, launched in 2023, further strengthens the collaboration between the IAEA and FAO. This initiative focuses on providing tailored solutions to the unique agricultural and environmental challenges faced by different countries. It aims to expand the use of nuclear science to create more sustainable and resilient food systems worldwide.
Looking ahead, the IAEA and FAO are committed to continuing their partnership and expanding the impact of nuclear science in agriculture. With the dual crises of food insecurity and climate change threatening global stability, the need for science-driven solutions has never been more urgent. The Joint FAO/IAEA Centre remains at the forefront of this effort, working to transform global food systems and ensure that all people have access to sufficient, nutritious food. Through collaboration and innovation, the Centre is helping to shape a future where nuclear science plays a pivotal role in securing food for all.
