Transforming Food Systems through True Cost Accounting: Insights and Impact from the EUPI TEEBAgriFood Project 2019 – 2023

The EUPI TEEBAgriFood Project (2019–2023), implemented by UNEP across seven countries, demonstrated how True Cost Accounting can drive food systems transformation by revealing the hidden environmental, social, health, and economic costs of agriculture. Addressing the triple planetary crisis—biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution—the project applied the TEEBAgriFood Evaluation Framework to assess policy scenarios against business-as-usual, integrating impacts on natural, human, social, and produced capital. Working in Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, and Thailand, the project supported governments in developing evidence-based, pro-nature policies, from urban agriculture strategies and low-carbon farming to agroforestry and sustainable rice production. Results showed that nature-positive transitions can reduce emissions, restore ecosystems, strengthen rural livelihoods, and improve public health. A private-sector component helped 32 agribusinesses assess their dependencies on nature, guided by the TEEBAgriFood Operational Guidelines for Business. Overall, the project built lasting capacity, influenced national policies, and advanced global efforts toward sustainable, resilient food systems.