Challenges on the Horizon – IMPACT REPORT 2024-25

Exploring Challenges on the Horizon

We are living through a time of rapid change, rising global uncertainty and declining trust in science. From geopolitical instability to accelerating technological advancements, the world faces profound challenges and opportunities on the horizon.

Photo: CIFAR’s Future of Food panel visits a rooftop farm in Toronto.

SPOTLIGHT: THE FUTURE OF FOOD

Food — its production, transportation and processing — is responsible for the greatest environmental impact humans have on this planet. It accounts for 50% of habitable land and 70% of freshwater use. The global food system is also under mounting pressure: food insecurity is rising, biodiversity is declining and climate-driven shocks have intensified. In 2024, with the generous support of the Arrell Family Foundation, CIFAR launched a Discovery Panel on the Future of Food to explore this growing complexity. Learn more by reading the Future of Food Report.

From international summits to program meetings around the world, CIFAR connects people and advances bold ideas in order to address challenges and opportunities on the horizon.

CIFAR President and CEO Stephen Toope (right) at a “Nourishing Science Culture” session at the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipation (GESDA) Summit.
Humanity’s Urban Future program members visiting Luis Barragán’s Casa Gálvez as part of their recent program meeting in Mexico.
Paul Hoffman, former member of CIFAR’s Earth System Evolution program, and 2024 recipient of the Kyoto Prize in Basic Science.

At CIFAR, the Future of Food is just the beginning. Discover other challenges and opportunities we’re tackling.

IMPACT REPORT 2024-25

The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) is a globally influential research organization proudly based in Canada. We mobilize the world’s most brilliant people across disciplines and at all career stages to advance transformative knowledge and solve humanity’s biggest problems, together. We are supported by the governments of Canada, Alberta and Québec, as well as Canadian and international foundations, individuals, corporations and partner organizations.

Connect with us

For more information about CIFAR visit CIFAR.ca.