The Global Pulse Confederation and its IYP 2016 partners have identified a series of thematic areas that will be the focus for activities during the 2016 International Year of Pulses. These areas represent the key issues where new and increased efforts could help make a difference in promoting sustainable agriculture and livelihoods, as well as healthy diets, through increased production, trade and consumption of pulses.
We are working on more than 100 activities and projects related to IYP 2016, four of them have already been launched in the areas of branding, school programs, recipes, and market access. Fifteen external partners have been recruited to work on the year, from major science centres, health institutes, academia to farm groups. Additionally, a total of 30 national committees have begun activities in every continent.
These activities will be built around four thematic areas:
Creating Awareness
IYP 2016 is an opportunity to increase awareness and global demand for pulses. We aim to reach an audience of 20-40 million people worldwide using social media, websites and global media outreach.
Food Security, Nutrition & Innovation
IYP 2016 has set the ambitious targets of helping initiate:
- 20 governments to commit to including pulses as part of their food security policies.
- 100 research projects substantiating the ability of pulses to combat nutrition and health issues.
- 100 research projects into functional and nutritional properties for food product advancement.
Market Access & Stability
IYP 2016 is an excellent opportunity to open a dialogue on improving the regulatory framework in which trade occurs. We hope to reduce trade barrier costs that are borne by farmers, processors, traders and consumers while introducing greater efficiencies to enhance food security, reduce price volatility and enhance the return to growers.
Productivity & Environmental Sustainability
IYP 2016 is a perfect chance to draw the focus of the scientific community. By the end of 2016, we will deliver a 10-year plan for USD 100 million in increased public and private research investment to sustainably close yield gaps for pulse crops around the world.
