Their conclusion: Without substantial changes to the food system, the worst effects of climate change will be unavoidable, even if humans successfully switch to cleaner energy. “If we do not transition away from the unsustainable food path we’re on today, we will fail on the climate agenda. We’ll fail on so many pathways,” said study co-author Johan Rockström, who leads the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. Food is one of the most deeply personal choices a person can make, and “the health component touches everyone’s heart,” Rockström said. Meanwhile, the report concludes that nearly half the world’s population is being denied adequate food, a healthy environment or decent work in the food system.