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Fabrice DeClerck: A Global scientist shaping Food Systems
The future of food security hinges on understanding the complex interplay between agriculture, climate change, and socio-economic factors. Leading this charge is Fabrice DeClerck, a scientist whose life journey has uniquely positioned him to address these critical challenges. His work, spanning continents and disciplines, offers invaluable insights into building resilient and equitable food systems. As of October 15, 2025 17:58:58, DeClerck’s contributions are increasingly vital given the recent IPCC report highlighting the accelerating impacts of climate change on global food production (IPCC, 2024).
Early Life and Influences: A Citizen of the World
Fabrice DeClerck’s upbringing was anything but conventional. Born in Belgium,his family embarked on a series of relocations - to Canada,Los Angeles,back to Belgium,and ultimately returning to Los Angeles. This constant movement fostered a global perspective and an appreciation for diverse ecosystems. He recalls a especially formative experience with the natural landscapes of California,specifically Yellowstone
,which he describes as a central place
in his life due to its compelling narrative,abundant wildlife,and sheer beauty. This early exposure to the natural world laid the groundwork for his future scientific pursuits.
However, it wasn’t simply aesthetic appreciation that ignited his passion. A pivotal moment occurred during a reforestation initiative in Burkina Faso at the age of 17.This experience exposed him to the harsh realities of development challenges, the escalating threat of climate change, and the enduring legacies of colonialism. It was during this project that he experienced what he terms an aha moment
– a realization of the interconnectedness of environmental issues and social justice.This realization, according to DeClerck, fundamentally shaped his career trajectory.
Current Roles and scientific Focus
Today, Fabrice DeClerck serves as the Chief Science Officer at EAT, a global science-based organization dedicated to transforming the global food system. He also holds the position of Principal Scientist at the Alliance of bioversity and CIAT, two leading international research organizations focused on agricultural biodiversity and climate-smart agriculture. Based near Montpellier, France, DeClerck’s work is truly international, leveraging his fluency in French, English, and Spanish to collaborate with researchers and policymakers worldwide.
His current research centers on understanding the complex interactions within food systems, with a particular emphasis on the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and nutritional security. He’s actively involved in developing innovative solutions to enhance the resilience of food systems,promote sustainable agricultural practices,and reduce food loss and waste. A recent study published in Nature Food (Smith et al., 2025) – a field DeClerck frequently contributes to – highlights the potential of agroecological approaches to mitigate climate change and improve food security, aligning directly with his research interests.
The EAT-Lancet Commission and Planetary Health
DeClerck’s work at EAT is deeply intertwined with the findings of the