The APEC project PPSTI 210 2024A addressed the urgent need to transform food supply chains, which contribute approximately one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. Key findings from the project's survey and workshop identified policymaking as the most critical factor for enabling a low-carbon transition. Technological innovations such as AI, IoT, precision agriculture, smart manufacturing, advanced fermentation, digital traceability systems, and carbon accounting platforms were highlighted as key drivers for improving efficiency, reducing waste, and lowering emissions.

The report also highlights practices for a circular economy, where agricultural by-products are upcycled into value-added products such as bioenergy and alternative ingredients. While food processing technologies have demonstrated several successful examples in the past, efforts to promote carbon reduction in traditional agriculture face the greatest resistance.

Lastly, the report recommends that APEC enhance cooperation on regional standards, expand government financial support, and promote firm-level investments in digital technologies, smart manufacturing, and by-product upcycling initiatives to build a resilient, low-carbon food supply chain.