Harnessing the potential of technology to spearhead agricultural advancement, Woolworths has introduced a pioneering initiative called ‘Farming for the Future‘. Within this endeavour, the company has revealed the groundbreaking utilisation of drones by its suppliers to revolutionise farming practices globally.
The primary aim of this campaign and dissemination of such insights is to establish a fresh benchmark in regenerative agriculture.
At the core of the campaign’s objectives lies the seamless integration of drone technology for identifying stressed plants. This empowers farmers with data-driven insights, facilitating informed decisions and the preservation of water resources.
Through the deployment of drones equipped with cutting-edge sensors, farmers gain the ability to meticulously monitor crop health and discern indicators of strain. This, in turn, facilitates precise irrigation strategies and efficient resource allocation.
“Some of our farmers use drones to check for trees that are compromised,” says Latiefa Behardien, Chief Food Technology and Sustainability Officer at Woolworths at Farming for the Future. “Instead of watering all the trees all the time, the farmer can water only those who are thirsty and manage this precious resource better. This is just one example of how technology is transforming agriculture and paving the way for a more sustainable future.”
Using drone technology, Farming for the Future empowers farmers to optimise water usage, reduce waste, and mitigate the impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity. By leveraging data-driven insights, farmers can enhance crop resilience, improve yield, and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
In addition to drone technology, Farming for the Future harnesses the power of science to protect and conserve water resources. By employing innovative water-saving techniques and precision irrigation methods, farmers can minimise water usage while maximising crop yields. From soil moisture sensors to predictive analytics, science plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient use of water resources in agriculture.
As part of the campaign launch, Woolworths has also introduced an immersive digital experience designed to showcase the transformative potential of technology in agriculture. Through an interactive online platform, visitors can explore the innovative use of drones, learn about water-saving techniques, and engage with relevant information to deepen their understanding of sustainable farming practices.
“We believe that technology has the power to unlock new possibilities in agriculture and drive positive change for our collective future,” emphasises Behardien. “Through Farming for the Future, we aim to empower farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”
Woolworths invites stakeholders from across the tech industry to join forces in advancing a shared vision of technology-enabled agriculture that promotes sustainability, resilience, and innovation. By collaborating and innovating together, we can build a future where technology serves as a force for good in agriculture and beyond.
