This session explores biodiversity driven crop breeding combined with nature based and agroecological solutions to develop climate smart, nutritious food systems that support ecosystem health and human well being. Facing challenges like climate change, soil degradation, water scarcity, and nutrient deficiencies, agriculture requires innovations beyond yield focused methods to enhance biodiversity and sustainability. Focusing on cereals and pulses such as wheat and soybean, the session highlights breeding strategies that optimize root nodulation and beneficial plant microbe partnerships to reduce synthetic fertilizer use, lower emissions, and protect water quality, cutting costs for farmers. Breeding for improved soil microbiome compatibility boosts nutrient efficiency and stress tolerance. Advanced techniques like marker-assisted and genomic selection accelerate development of resilient, nutrient efficient varieties.
Examples will show how integrating climate resilience with biodiversity friendly practices supports soil health, pollinators, and ecosystem stability. Nutritional gains through biofortification and improved protein quality will be discussed. The session also covers benefits for farmers and local industries: reduced inputs, stable yields, improved livelihoods, and access to sustainable, high quality crops that open new markets. Participatory breeding and seed sovereignty empower communities. Policy options include funding incentives, biodiversity inclusive certification, multi-stakeholder governance, and payment for ecosystem services schemes rewarding sustainable farming.By linking biodiversity, water, food, health, and climate, this session fosters dialogue on breeding solutions that strengthen resilience, nutrition, and ecosystem integrity.