Saudi Arabia is set to become a pioneer in food security as it develops systems and solutions that can be rolled out “across the planet,” according to a senior executive.
Speaking in an interview with Arab News, Juan Carlos, CEO of food company Topian – the giga-project of NEOM’s newest subsidiary – highlighted that this includes introducing new technologies urgently needed to feed humanity today and in the coming decades.
His comments came in the light of a World Bank Report published in January 2024, which highlighted a “tenuous access to food for nearly one out of every three people.”
Reflecting on Topian’s role in combating this issue, Carlos said: “We aim to pioneer new systems and innovative solutions that will benefit the people of Saudi Arabia and, when scaled up, benefit people across the planet facing similar challenges.”
He added: “This includes introducing new technologies urgently needed to feed humanity today and in the coming decades, such as controlled-environment production systems that can significantly reduce the water required for crop growth.”
Carlos also underscored that Topian is dedicated to creating a sustainable future, particularly in the areas of agriculture, aquaculture, and food innovation.
Its launch concept Future to Table, which is an initiative to revolutionize food production through sustainable practices, emphasizes the development of new methods to nourish the world while minimizing environmental impact. “It embodies the concept of bringing high-quality, tastier food to the table with minimal environmental impact. This initiative represents a shift towards a ‘New Era of Food,’ focusing on innovative methods to feed the world’s population responsibly,” Carlos said.
As the world grapples with the multifaceted challenges of rapid population growth, changing consumption patterns, climate change, and the depletion of natural resources, Saudi Arabia stands at a pivotal point in its pursuit of sustainable solutions. “The Kingdom’s National Strategy for Agriculture 2030 aims to create a sustainable sector that achieves food and water security while advancing economic, social, and environmental developments,” Carlos said.—AN
