It’s not everyday former US Secretary of State John Kerry is Down Under to problem-solve how to feed the world and chat to innovators taking action.
But Mr Kerry will deliver a keynote speech in Melbourne on Tuesday to agricultural and food industry leaders about changing food habits amid a global population boom and acceleration in global warming.
He’ll set the tone for the 150 speakers at Global Table conference, which will delve into food waste and solutions to plastics packaging among the discussion topics on offer.
“The world is on the cusp of a revolution in food and agriculture,” Mr Kerry said in a statement.
“We have to make radical changes to ensure the prosperity of future generations.”
One lucky bright-spark will be able to have a one-on-one with Mr Kerry during his trip.
He was US Secretary of State between 2013 and 2017, and a key architect of the 2015 Paris climate accord aimed at keeping global warming below 2C.
About 2000 delegates are expected to attend the September 3-6 conference, which will play host to trade and innovation zones to showcase hundreds of businesses.
Teresa Aylott will be among the innovators pitching her business Stroh, which sells straws made from wheat germ, and wants to find more ways to address food challenges.
“As a solo business owner it will be extremely valuable to have access to some of the leading minds in agtech, food and business who will be attending the event,” she said.
“To identify what challenges exist and ascertain how Stroh might be able to play a part in solving these.”
Australian Associated Press