MANIFESTO

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Manifesto for the Agrivoltaic Solutions Consortium

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Preamble

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We, the undersigned, representing a diverse consortium of experts and expert organizations, are united in our commitment to accelerate investments in sustainable agrivoltaic solutions for food systems transformation. Recognizing the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we approach food security and sustainability, we are dedicated to pioneering agrivoltaics as a pivotal component in the fight against climate change, poverty and an inequitable and unstable global food system.

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Vision

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We envision a future where agrivoltaic systems are integral to global agricultural practices, providing dual benefits of solar energy generation and agricultural production. Our goal is to establish agrivoltaics as a cornerstone of climate-smart agriculture, enhancing food security, sustainability, and the well-being of farmers and communities worldwide.

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Guiding Principles

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1. Food Security and Sustainability

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Agrivoltaic solutions must prioritize food security and sustainability. By leveraging solar energy to enhance agricultural productivity, we can ensure a reliable food supply while reducing the environmental impact of farming. Our approach emphasizes climate-smart adaptation and mitigation strategies that protect soils, lower water consumption, and produce healthy, nutritious foods.

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2. Climate-Smart Adaptation and Mitigation

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Agrivoltaic systems offer a powerful tool for climate adaptation and mitigation. By integrating solar panels with agricultural production, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance carbon sequestration, and promote resilient farming practices. These systems protect crops from extreme weather, reduce water evaporation, and create microclimates that benefit both plants and animals.

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3. Farmer Livelihoods and Community Well-Being

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Investing in agrivoltaics improves the lives and livelihoods of farmers by providing additional income streams and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By promoting sustainable practices, we enhance rural development, create job opportunities, and empower communities. Our focus is on fostering equitable growth and ensuring that the benefits of agrivoltaics are accessible to all.

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4. Sustainable Resource Management

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Agrivoltaic solutions must contribute to sustainable resource management. This includes protecting soil health, conserving water, and reducing the environmental footprint of agricultural practices. By integrating solar energy with agriculture, we can optimize land use, reduce waste, and promote circular economies in food production.

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5. Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependence

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Shifting food systems away from fossil fuel consumption is essential for achieving sustainability. Agrivoltaics provide a pathway to reduce the energy intensity of food production and packaging. By harnessing renewable energy, we can decrease dependency on non-renewable resources and minimize greenhouse gas emissions across the supply chain.

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6. Policy and Regulatory Support

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Governments play a crucial role in creating policy environments and regulatory frameworks that promote long-term, commercially viable investment ecosystems for agrivoltaics. We call on policymakers to support research and development, provide financial incentives, and remove barriers to the adoption of agrivoltaic systems. A coordinated effort is needed to align policies with sustainability goals and ensure the scalability of these solutions.

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Call to Action

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We, the Agrivoltaic Solutions Consortium, urge all stakeholders—governments, businesses, researchers, and civil society—to join us in accelerating the adoption of agrivoltaic systems. Together, we can:

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1. Promote Innovation and Research: Invest in research and development to advance agrivoltaic technologies and practices, ensuring they are effective, scalable, and adaptable to diverse agricultural contexts.

2. Support Farmers and Communities: Provide resources, training, and financial support to farmers and communities to implement agrivoltaic systems, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth.

3. Advocate for Policy Change: Engage with policymakers to develop supportive policies and regulatory frameworks that incentivize agrivoltaic adoption and align with broader sustainability goals.

4. Raise Awareness: Educate stakeholders about the benefits of agrivoltaics and the role they play in transforming food systems for a sustainable future.

5. Foster Collaboration: Build partnerships across sectors to share knowledge, resources, and best practices, creating a global network dedicated to sustainable agrivoltaic solutions.

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Conclusion

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The transformation of food systems through agrivoltaics is not just a possibility—it is a necessity. By embracing this innovative approach, we can achieve food security, mitigate climate change, and improve the livelihoods of farmers and communities. We are committed to leading this charge and invite all stakeholders to join us in creating a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for all.

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Signed,

[Consortium Members]