Through impactful analogies, the following recommendations stressed the importance of resilience, mindful resource use, and the value of farmer knowledge and experience in developing sustainable food systems in Pakistan:

• Emphasise the mindful and efficient use of water resources, minimising waste and contamination. True resilience lies in sustainable resource management.
• Highlight the importance of making informed choices, particularly in climate finance, to ensure funds are allocated toward sustainable practices.
• Recognise that farmers possess valuable practical knowledge and are capable of making optimal crop decisions. Support should focus on empowering farmers rather than dictating methods.
• Promote the use of bio-fertilizers and coated fertilizers to improve nutrient efficiency, increase nitrogen circulation in soil, and reduce chemical runoff.
• Ensure up-to-date data through periodic agricultural censuses to guide policy and identify emerging trends.
• Facilitate access to credit for local farmers, enabling them to invest in sustainable practices and innovations.
• Expand crop insurance programmes to protect farmers against losses, encouraging them to adopt new methods and experiment with diverse crops.
• Improve traceability systems for crops, particularly those meant for export, to strengthen Pakistan’s position in global trade while stabilising prices for local consumers.
• Develop and implement policies aimed at reducing post-harvest losses, ensuring that farmers and the wider economy benefit from improved food security and reduced waste.
• Encourage partnerships like Nestlé’s work in cultivating apples in Gilgit-Baltistan and mangoes and guavas in Punjab to increase crop diversity and quality.
• Expand investment in research centres focused on cross-learning and innovation to enhance sustainable practices and crop resilience.
• Ensure implementation strategies involve local communities, leveraging their knowledge and fostering a collaborative approach to sustainable agriculture.