World Pulses Day 2025: Celebrating the Role of Pulses in Sustainable Agriculture On February 10, 2025, the world will come together to celebrate World Pulses Day, recognizing the essential role pulses play in sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate resilience. Pulses—such as beans, chickpeas, and lentils—are the edible seeds of leguminous plants and are celebrated for their high nutritional value and versatility. This day highlights their significance in transforming agrifood systems toward a more inclusive and sustainable future. The United Nations General Assembly established World Pulses Day in 2018, building on the success of the International Year of Pulses (IYP) 2016, and recognizing their contribution to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Pulses are not only a vital source of affordable protein in regions where meat and dairy are less accessible but also enhance biodiversity, soil fertility, and climate resilience. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), pulses are a crucial part of sustainable food systems because they help reduce food waste, improve soil quality, and increase agricultural diversity. In addition, they play an important role in tackling climate change, as they help fix nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and boosting soil health.
This year's theme, "Pulses: Bringing Diversity to Agrifood Systems," underscores the importance of integrating pulses into crop rotations and agricultural systems. With the global production of pulses reaching 96 million tons in 2022, the celebration provides an opportunity to promote their broader adoption and raise awareness about their benefits for both human health and the environment. The day is also an opportunity to highlight how pulses can empower communities, especially rural women and youth, by offering employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. With their long shelf life and ability to thrive in diverse environments, pulses are increasingly being recognized as a sustainable solution to global food security challenges. This year’s celebration will take place in Lima, Peru, with support from the Peruvian Ministry of Agricultural Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI) and the FAO. Events will be held worldwide to showcase the importance of pulses in creating more resilient and sustainable agrifood systems.
As World Pulses Day 2025 approaches, organizations, governments, and individuals are encouraged to take part in this global initiative, helping to raise awareness and promote the benefits of pulses in fighting hunger and building a more sustainable agricultural future for all. On February 12, 2025, the European Commission unveiled its work programme for the year, highlighting two significant initiatives: the Clean Industrial Deal and a proposed 90% emission reduction target for 2040.
Pulses are not only a vital source of affordable protein in regions where meat and dairy are less accessible but also enhance biodiversity, soil fertility, and climate resilience.
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