Dubai hosts international conference on quinoa research

Leaders, scientists and experts from around the globe recently gathered in Dubai for a conference dedicated to mitigating the effects of climate change through agriculture, specifically quinoa.
 
The event brought together more than 150 experts and professionals from more than 46 countries. They discussed the latest developments in quinoa research.
 
“Climate change poses one of the greatest threats to humanity; countries that already suffer from droughts, water shortages and salinity are at an even greater risk,” Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, minister of climate change and environment for the UAE.
 
Al Zeyoudi discussed the need to find solutions on various fronts to combat climate change. He believes agriculture is one of the main ways to do so.
 
“We urgently need to find solutions and adapt and, where possible, mitigate effects of climate change on different fronts, including agriculture,” he said. “Ensuring future food security in marginal environments requires a shift in agricultural practices and innovative approaches to crop production systems. Quinoa can play a major role as a staple crop in marginal environments due to its adaptability to harsh environments including poor saline soils with annual rainfall as little as 200 mm.”