1st ALGERIAN-TUNISIAN DAYS Biotechnologies for Biodiversity, Healthy and Sustainable Food

With high annual population growth rates, increasing urbanization, and slow growth in domestic food production, the gap between consumption and domestic food production in the North Africa Region is likely to widen in the coming years (FAO 2022). Agricultural activities and livestock in the Maghreb countries remain vital resources for poor rural populations and a key source of income (FAO 2013). However, the key challenge ahead will be meeting the needs of a rapidly growing population while dealing with increasingly scarce natural resources and the growing impacts of climate change. Agricultural practices, genetic diversity, land use changes, and climate impacts are deeply interconnected, requiring sustainable strategies that address both food security and biodiversity conservation. In this context, the question arises: how can the judicious application of animal and plant biotechnologies help balance nutritional needs, food security, health, and environmental preservation? This symposium will explore the role of biotechnologies, both animal and plant-based, in the pursuit of sustainable food security. It will showcase the latest innovations in the field and examine how these advancements contribute to enhancing the resilience of food systems while tackling critical global challenges. Our primary goal is to identify strategic perspectives on leveraging biotechnologies to ensure long-term food security, while also maintaining environmental sustainability and promoting healthy living conditions. These scientific days are a multidisciplinary platform, uniting researchers, industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from fields such as animal and plant sciences, biodiversity, food security, and health. The aim is to foster a comprehensive understanding of the role biotechnologies play in promoting sustainable food security and to facilitate meaningful discussions on how to maximize their benefits.