SUSTAINABILITY
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Laperriere believes technology , particularly developments in artificial intelligence ( AI ) and data , will be game-changing for the farming industry in terms of building both sustainability and resilience . While open data has been used to streamline business operations for some years , he says its capabilities have yet to be fully considered in farming . “ The potential for the use of open data to combat food issues is continuing to be recognised , not only because of the relevant historical data open data can harbour , but also its potential to help increase the production of crops ,” he explains .
“ With increased access and sharing of data , farmers will be enabled to harness the data for practical uses such as monitoring water supplies and anticipating changes in the weather . Through the use of satellite data , remote sensing and mapping , farmers , businesses and consumers in the agricultural industry can harness the most relevant and useful information to improve and adapt practices , make better decisions and ensure sustainability .”
Data aside , Laperriere also stresses the importance of more traditional CSR-led agricultural practices . Organic farming techniques such as crop rotation , which can better care for the land , or improving soil quality , plant growth and natural diversityby natural animal raising are equally important , he says , as is being responsible locally . For example , small-scale farming can still use toxic chemicalsand not necessarily follow
AUGUST 2019