Mitigating food insecurity through green energy and agricultural adaptation in the face of climate change

This study examines the interconnections between climate change, agricultural productivity, and the adoption of green energy, with a focus on their impact on achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2)—zero hunger. Using data from BRICS countries from 2000 to 2022 and applying a moderated mediation model analyzed through the Hayes process macro, the findings indicate that agriculture is a crucial channel through which climate change impacts food insecurity. The study further demonstrates that adopting green energy significantly reduces the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture. As the adoption of renewable energy increases, the adverse impact on agriculture lessens and can even become positive with high levels of green energy usage. Additionally, green energy mitigates the indirect effects of climate change on food insecurity through agriculture, underscoring its crucial role in reducing the adverse impact of climate change on food systems. The research emphasizes the need for BRICS countries to implement supportive government policies that integrate green energy into agriculture, provide financial incentives and technical training for farmers, and foster public–private partnerships to enhance innovation and accessibility. These measures may enhance agricultural sustainability, improve food security, and support BRICS nations in their progress toward achieving SDG 2, particularly in the face of climate change.