GPC marked a historic debut at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), reinforcing our commitment to advocating for pulses and sustainable agriculture. This inaugural participation not only showcased GPC’s and the pulse community's commitment to global sustainability but also initiated crucial discussions on production, consumption, and the transformative power of pulses in the fight against climate change.

Representing GPC, President Vijay Iyengar, Executive Vice President Atheeqe Ansari and board member Sudhakar Tomar were in attendance, participating in key events throughout the week.

1. GPC Debate: Supply v Demand - which will drive global pulse consumption?

This event, hosted by GPC in collaboration with Beans is How and the Boston Consulting Group, was a thought-provoking debate that delved into the intricate balance between the supply and production of pulses. President Iyengar opened the debate along with Paul Newnham of Beans is How, and Vice President Atheeqe Ansari represented the supply side in a  robust discussion, which concluded that building both consumption and production concurrently is paramount. Policymakers from industry giants such as Kraft Heinz and Unilever, alongside members of the pulse community, actively participated, adding depth to the discourse. The event not only shed light on the global pulse landscape but also sparked innovative ideas for sustainable growth.

2. Accelerating climate adaptation through championing Beans in Africa

In another impactful session, Beans is How directed attention to Africa within the Blue Zone of COP28. Alongside a panel of experts including Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA, Jean Lucas Restrepo, Global Director of Advocacy at CGIAR, and Roy Steiner, VP Food Initiative at the Rockefeller Foundation, President Iyengar participated in a lively discussion that showcased efforts on the ground in Kenya and Rwanda, highlighting the positive impact pulses can have on local communities. GPC highlighted its commitment to championing the African pulse cause among its members, fostering collaboration and promoting sustainable practices. The session emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge to make consumption of pulses more accessible across the African continent.

3. Paving the Way – Alternative Proteins in the Agriculture Sector 

The Government of Saskatchewan hosted this panel event at which President Iyengar took to the stage to discuss the role of pulses in alternative proteins. Premier Scott Moe provided insights into R&D efforts in production processes in Saskatchewan in a discussion that highlighted the myriad opportunities for innovative developments and products that can supercharge food security and climate change goals in the near future. 

Quoted in a Saskatchewan Government press release following the event, President Iyengar said: “This conference provided a platform for productive talks with global leaders, impactful presentations, and exciting collaborations - all fueled by the shared vision of a pulse-powered future.”

4. Transforming Sustainable Agri-Food Systems in the Global South

Sudhakar Tomar participated in this panel discussion, hosted by the Boston Consulting Group, in which public and private stakeholders looked at innovative strategies to address food security, climate resilience, and economic development in regions facing unique challenges. As a representative of GPC, Sudhakar focused on underlining the importance of pulses in powering food security and nutrition,

Our message at COP28 and into the future

GPC's debut at COP28 not only marked a milestone for the organization but also reinforced the pivotal role pulses play in achieving a sustainable and equitable future. As the pulse community continues to advocate for increased production and consumption, these discussions at COP28 serve as a springboard for future collaborations and advancements in global agri-food.

“Never before has it been as clear and as primordial to emphasize pulses' contributions to equality, sustainability, food security and nutrition,” said President Iyengar. “As the first ever COP to put food and agriculture on the table in climate discussions comes to a close, GPC advances with a narrative that is stronger and more compelling than ever: pulses are the future of food.”