Investing in a sustainable food system in North America is essential to support the growing demand for food while preserving our planet's natural resources. A sustainable food system can provide economic, environmental, and social benefits for farmers, consumers, and communities. Here are four ways to unlock the value of nature in agriculture and build a sustainable food system:

1. Regenerative Agriculture: Regenerative agriculture focuses on restoring and improving the health of the soil, increasing biodiversity, and promoting a more sustainable food system. This approach can help to mitigate climate change, protect ecosystems, and improve the health and well-being of communities. Investing in regenerative agriculture practices can lead to healthier soils, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and increased profitability for farmers.

2. Agroforestry: Agroforestry is a land-use management system that integrates trees, crops, and livestock in a sustainable and profitable way. Agroforestry can improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and provide additional income streams for farmers. By planting trees alongside crops, farmers can provide shade, reduce soil erosion, and create habitats for wildlife.

3. Conservation Agriculture: Conservation agriculture is an approach to farming that involves minimal disturbance of the soil, using crop rotations, and reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This approach can help to improve soil health, increase crop yields, and reduce the environmental impacts of agriculture. Investing in conservation agriculture can lead to healthier soils, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and increased profitability for farmers.

4. Sustainable Aquaculture: Sustainable aquaculture is the production of aquatic animals and plants in a way that is environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable. Sustainable aquaculture practices can help to reduce the overfishing of wild fish populations, create jobs, and provide a source of protein for communities. Investing in sustainable aquaculture can lead to healthier aquatic ecosystems, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and increased profitability for farmers.

Investing in a sustainable food system in North America can provide economic, environmental, and social benefits for farmers, consumers, and communities. By focusing on regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and sustainable aquaculture, we can unlock the value of nature in agriculture and build a more sustainable food system. By investing in these practices, we can create a more resilient and sustainable food system that supports the health and well-being of people and the planet.