The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations recently hosted its inaugural discussion in the series “Challenges and Opportunities of the One Health Approach, from the Agrifood System.” The event focused on promoting an integrated approach to health, encompassing people, animals, plants, and the environment.
The “One Health” concept aims to harmonize and enhance the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems. It seeks to balance sustainable agriculture, animal and plant health, food safety, and environmental protection. Key areas include managing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), nutrition, and livelihoods.
At the discussion, experts from livestock, aquaculture, agriculture, and forestry explored the benefits and challenges of coordinating agrifood systems with a focus on sustainability and environmental conservation.
Andrés González, Livestock Development and Animal Health Officer for Latin America and the Caribbean at FAO, highlighted the example of avian influenza. He stressed the importance of a strong preventive risk communication strategy to protect public health. González emphasized that the “One Health” approach helps anticipate, prevent, detect, and respond to diseases that can spread between animals and humans while ensuring food safety.
Natalia Cano Marimon, FAO’s Coordinator of Health and Forest Protection Projects, noted that integrating “One Health” into forest ecosystems recognizes the crucial role of healthy forests. Forests provide food, medicinal plants, timber, and other essential services. They protect against diseases, improve mental and physical health, and play a key role in combating climate change.
Gamini Manuweera addressed the issue of funding in agriculture, discussing the need to reduce agrochemical use without compromising food production sustainability. He highlighted the need for system-wide rethinking of these practices.
José Aguilar-Manjarrez, FAO’s Aquaculture Officer for Latin America and the Caribbean, focused on balancing fish consumption, overfishing, and aquaculture. He emphasized minimizing environmental impacts, addressing health risks from contaminants in aquatic products, promoting antibiotic-free production, and ensuring sustainable feed without affecting food security for low-income coastal communities.
The speakers agreed on the need for stronger government capacities, legislation, and formal mechanisms to enhance intersectoral coordination. They stressed the importance of implementing holistic policies and programs to manage health risks effectively and encourage active participation from all sectors.
