Search Results (23)

The agrifood sector faces well-documented barriers to climate-smart agriculture (CSA) adoption, reflecting systematic difficulty identifying where digital tools address specific stakeholder needs rather than a technology shortage. This paper presents a prescriptive framework for mapping digital innovation opportunities in complex, multi-stakeholder agrifood systems. Grounded in Jobs-to-be-Done (JTBD) theory and structured as a two-dimensional matrix of meta-jobs and value chain segments, the framework was developed through a design science research (DSR) paradigm evaluated on utility, coherence, and actionability. Construction involved a purposive synthesis of three literature streams and iterative refinement through 136 stakeholder engagements within a six-month university-affiliated startup studio cycle. Applied to climate-smart agriculture, the framework produces 54 strategic opportunity areas across nine meta-jobs and six value chain segments. A cross-cutting pattern analysis identifies three structural constraints: agricultural data fragmentation and absence of interoperability standards; inadequate measurement, reporting, and verification infrastructure; and misalignment between financing mechanisms and climate-smart time horizons. The framework equips entrepreneurs and investors with a segment-differentiated opportunity map, supports agribusiness portfolio analysis, and directs policymakers toward three priority areas where coordinated systemic action generates value across the opportunity landscape. Full article

Conventional agricultural production systems are increasingly challenged to balance environmental sustainability with economic performance, highlighting the need to systematically evaluate climate-smart agricultural practices as viable alternatives. The primary objective of the present work is to assess the environmental and economic benefits of implementing different Climate Smart Agricultural (CSA) practices in the agricultural sector. For this purpose, four different CSA practices, including intercropping, renewable energy, variable rate fertilizer and no-tillage system, were studied in wheat cultivation in Lithuania. Subsequently, their environmental and economic performance was compared to a conventional wheat producing farm. For the environmental performance, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis was performed following the respective ISO recommendations. Based on the results, the incorporation of CSA practices in the agricultural sector can lead not only to substantial improvements in environmental performance but also to notable economic benefits, depending on the selected practice. Regarding their environmental performance, the most prominent studied CSA was renewable energy that minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, followed by variable rate fertilization. The economic analysis showed intercropping to be the most profitable option, with the total profit being 792 €/ha, while no-tillage also showed competitive results, with subsidies in each studied system playing a major role in the economic performance. Conversely, variable rate fertilization and renewable energy integration highlighted trade-offs between environmental advantages and short-term economic feasibility. Overall, the adoption of CSA practices represents a promising pathway toward more sustainable and resilient agri-food systems. Full article

Conventional food security strategies have largely been formulated under assumptions of population growth, abundant agricultural labor, and stable global trade. However, many advanced economies—particularly in East Asia—are entering a shrinking-society context characterized by population decline, rapid aging, and regional depopulation. This paper argues that demographic shrinkage should be understood not as a peripheral trend but as a landscape-level structural pressure that destabilizes incumbent agri-food systems. Drawing on the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), the study conceptualizes demographic shrinkage as a cumulative force that erodes the labor base, productive capacity, and institutional stability of food systems, thereby weakening regime path dependence. Building on this framework, it advances Food Security 3.0 as a theory-driven contribution to sustainability research. Food Security 3.0 reconceptualizes food security under shrinkage conditions as a problem of systemic resilience rather than production expansion or import diversification, and theorizes food technology—including smart and automated agriculture, alternative proteins, and AI-enabled supply chains—as transitional infrastructure enabling regime reconfiguration under structural constraints. By integrating demographic change, socio-technical transitions, and governance, the study reframes food security as a question of resilience-oriented system design, strategic self-reliance, and integrated food-system governance. While anchored in the East Asian experience, the framework offers theoretical and policy-relevant insights for shrinking societies confronting overlapping demographic, climatic, and geopolitical pressures. Full article

Sustainability in the agri-food sector has become a cornerstone of global efforts to combat climate change, ensure food security through climate-smart agriculture, and strengthen economic resilience. Sustainability reporting within agri-food systems has gained increasing regulatory significance with the introduction of mandatory frameworks such as the Turkish Sustainability Reporting Standards (TSRSs). This article searches for the sustainability reports of agri-business firms listed in BIST in Turkey. Although TSRS reporting is not yet mandatory for the agribusiness sector, this study examines the first TSRS-aligned sustainability reports published by eight agri-food companies, excluding the retail sector. The analysis assesses how effectively these reports address sector-specific environmental and social challenges defined in the GRI 13 Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fishing Sector Standard and their alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using a structured content analysis approach, disclosure patterns were examined at both thematic and company levels. The findings indicate that TSRS-aligned reports place strong emphasis on environmental and climate-related disclosures, particularly emissions, climate adaptation and resilience, water management, and waste. In contrast, agro-ecological and land-based impacts—such as soil health, pesticide use, and ecosystem conversion—are weakly addressed. Economic disclosures are predominantly framed around climate-related financial risks and supply chain traceability, while social reporting focuses mainly on occupational health and safety, employment practices, and food safety, with limited attention to labor and equity issues across the broader value chain. Company-level results reveal marked heterogeneity, with internationally active firms demonstrating deeper alignment with GRI 13 requirements. From an SDG alignment perspective, high levels of coverage are observed across all companies for SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). By contrast, SDGs critical to agro-ecological integrity and social equity—namely SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 15 (Life on Land)—are weakly represented or entirely absent. Overall, the results suggest that while TSRS-aligned reporting enhances transparency in climate-related domains, it achieves only selective alignment with the SDG agenda. This underscores the need for a stronger integration of sector-specific sustainability priorities into mandatory sustainability reporting frameworks. Full article

The agri-food sector is currently undergoing a significant digital transformation, driven by climate change, frequent supply chain disruptions, and increasing demand for transparency and food safety. This article, based on a systematic review of 113 recent studies (in line with the PRISMA guidelines), delves into how emerging digital technologies, particularly blockchain, are reshaping agri-food supply chains towards sustainability, a circular economy, and complete product traceability from production to the final consumer. The paper identifies the main enabling factors, barriers, and implementation models of blockchain and other technologies associated with Industry 4.0 (IoT, artificial intelligence, smart contracts), highlighting their role in increasing the resilience of supply chains, optimising quality control, and sustainable resource management. A key contribution of the study is the introduction of the CTSAF (Converging Technologies for Sustainable Agri-Food Chains) conceptual framework, which provides practical implications for policymakers and organisations, enabling them to make informed decisions. The results also provide valuable insights for future research, supporting the transition to a more transparent, resilient, and sustainable global food system. Full article

Smallholder irrigation farmers play a vital role in sustaining rural communities in South Africa. However, the performance of smallholder irrigators, both as income generators and job creators, has come under scrutiny in recent years. In Limpopo province, a study was conducted in the Vhembe District using cross-sectional data from 95 independent and 165 public smallholder irrigators, which are privately established farmers and users of government-supported and managed irrigation systems, respectively. Qualitative data were collected through questionnaires, key informant interviews, and group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed by SPSS version 30 using themes and codes, employing inferential statistical methods such as chi-square and t-tests to assess variables related to agrifood systems, crop selection, and market access. The study found that smallholders predominantly favor the production of grains, vegetables, and horticultural crops, with a statistically significant (p < 0.05) similarity between independent and public irrigators. Public irrigators dominate within irrigation schemes at 64% of the total, with X² of 22.7 with 0.001 p-value. Amongst the groups, the income distribution shows a statistically significant difference in earnings between independent and public irrigators (χ² = 25.83, p < 0.001). Informal and formal markets are accessible and available to 59% of independent irrigators, but 30% of public irrigators only access the informal market (p < 0.001). The major identified challenge across all smallholders is the lack of food value addition and commercial packaging. The study recommends the development of food value addition initiatives, adoption of climate-smart practices, maintenance of infrastructure, and improvement of market access to enhance productivity and sustainability. Full article

West Africa faces persistent food and nutrition insecurity despite agricultural efforts, exacerbated by population growth, climate change, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. This study argues that integrating food processing principles with nutrition-sensitive agriculture (NSA) and nutrition-smart agriculture (NSmartAg) offers a transformative solution for human health. Therefore, we delineate these interconnected concepts and highlight their synergistic potential for a nutrition-focused food system. Likewise, critical analysis of key regional challenges, including infrastructural weaknesses, policy gaps, and gender inequities, was made prior to identifying significant opportunities for leveraging food processing as a strategic entry point to accelerate the implementation of NSA and NSmartAg. Based on these insights, six strategic pathways are proposed to achieve this objective: (i) integrating food processing into policies; (ii) investing in interdisciplinary R&D that puts nutrition and health benefits at the forefront of desired outcomes along with others; (iii) strengthening farmer and food processor capacities; (iv) improving agri-food infrastructure; (v) fostering multi-sectoral collaboration; and (vi) prioritizing youth engagement and market development. By adopting these integrated strategies, West African countries can build more resilient, equitable, and nutrition-centered food systems, ultimately improving public health outcomes and fostering sustainable regional development. Full article

West Africa’s agri-food systems face a triple burden of malnutrition, climate vulnerability, and structural inefficiencies that compromise nutrition and public health. Despite increased attention to food security, agricultural strategies often prioritize yield over dietary quality. This paper explores the critical role of food processing in advancing Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture (NSA) and Nutrition-Smart Agriculture (NSmartAg) across West Africa. Drawing on a systems lens, it positions food processing not as a peripheral activity, but as a catalytic mechanism that connects nutrient-dense production with improved consumption outcomes. Food processing can reduce post-harvest losses, preserve micronutrients, extend food availability, and foster inclusive value chains particularly for women and youth. Yet, persistent challenges remain, including institutional fragmentation, infrastructure gaps, and limited financial and technical capacity. This paper proposes a conceptual framework linking food processing to NSA and NSmartAg objectives and outlines operational entry points for implementation. By integrating processing into agricultural policies, investment, education, and monitoring systems, stakeholders and policymakers can reimagine agriculture as a platform for resilience and nutritional equity. Strategic recommendations emphasize multisectoral collaboration, localized solutions, and evidence-informed interventions to drive the transformation toward sustainable, nutrition-oriented food systems. Full article

Efforts to counteract climate change-induced challenges and increase agricultural productivity are growing across Africa. The Southern African region has observed a continuous myriad of weather extremes and hazard occurrences, impacting agrifood systems. The decline in agrifood systems results in food insecurities. The adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) technologies is key to building climate-resilient agricultural systems. CSA adoption is limited by several factors, including a lack of institutional support, deficiencies in policy integration, and insufficient numbers of agricultural advisors. This study was conducted in semi-arid areas in the Free State and Limpopo provinces, South Africa. This manuscript presents the upscaling of CSA towards the enhancement of sustainable agrifood systems. The respondents included of 196 smallholder farmers and 125 agricultural advisors who participated in CSA training. CSA practices include agroecological cropping systems and micro-catchments. Technology transfer requires qualitative and quantitative approaches for adoption efficacy. The CSA Acceptance Model has missing factors that were modified, including usability, profitability, sustainability, and the perceived cost of acceptance. The participatory living laboratory approach was key to using demonstration trials, on-farm training, and training of intermediaries. Through the effectiveness of technology transfer and reciprocal systems, smallholder farmers can transition to commercial levels and contribute to sustainable agrifood systems. Full article

Global food instability is attributable to multiple significant threats, such as climate change, geopolitical instability, emerging trade policies, health crises, and insufficient technological readiness. Agrifood systems are implicated at various and interconnected levels. The international community, along with subordinate entities, is addressing these risks by formulating specific policies and methodologies. This review adopts a holistic approach to understanding the interactions across agrifood systems, encompassing production, processing, transportation, and consumption. The methodology involves an extensive review of the academic literature, case studies, and statistical data from global organizations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), to assess vulnerabilities and identify sustainable practices. Key sectors within agriculture, such as agroecology, organic farming, aquaculture, hydroponics, and precision agriculture are analyzed for their potential to enhance productivity while reducing environmental impact. This analysis also explores widely adopted concepts, policies, and methodologies aimed at monitoring risks and disseminating effective practices across the sector. By integrating emerging technologies and policy frameworks, the review underscores the critical role of climate-smart agriculture, sustainable water management, and agronomic practices in supporting resilient and sustainable food systems. The findings provide actionable insights for advancing food security and achieving global sustainability goals and support the decision-making process. Full article

In the past few years, one of the largest industries in the world, the agriculture sector, has faced many challenges, such as climate change and the depletion of limited natural resources. Smart Agriculture, based on IoT, is considered a transformative force that will play a crucial role in the further advancement of the agri-food sector. Furthermore, in IoT-based Smart Agriculture systems, radio wave propagation faces unique challenges (such as attenuation in vegetation and soil and multiple reflections) because of sensor nodes deployed in agriculture fields at or slightly above the ground level. In our study, we present, for the first time, several models (Multi-slope, Weissberger, and COST-235) suitable for planning radio coverage in a cornfield for Smart Agriculture applications. We received signal level measurements as a function of distance in a corn field (R3 corn stage) at 0.9 GHz and 2.4 GHz using two transmitting and two receiving antenna heights, with both horizontal and vertical polarization. The results indicate that radio wave propagation in a corn field is influenced not only by the surrounding environment (i.e., corn), but also by the antenna polarization and the positions of the transmitting and receiving antennas relative to the ground. Full article

This paper reviews, compares, and critically evaluates two broad groups of sustainable agriculture models: “sustainable agriculture” and “sustainable agrifood systems”. The “sustainable agriculture” models—comprising organic farming, regenerative agriculture, climate-smart agriculture, carbon-capture agriculture, and nature-based solutions—focus primarily on improving ecological sustainability through farm-level practices. These models emphasize reducing external, industrial inputs, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting climate resilience, relying on technological and market-based solutions to address environmental concerns. On the other hand, the “sustainable agrifood systems” models—agroecology, alternative food networks, and permaculture—offer more ambitious visions of systemic transformation. These approaches not only seek to implement environmentally sound practices but also aim to reconfigure the broader food system by challenging corporate power, promoting local governance, fostering food sovereignty, and prioritizing social justice. Grounded in grassroots movements, these models emphasize social justice and economic viability in addition to ecological sustainability. This paper’s contribution lies in its comparative analysis of the wide array of sustainable alternatives, highlighting both their strengths and limitations. Adopting an agrarian political economy perspective, it critiques the former camp for limited engagement with structural issues inherent in capitalist agriculture and the latter camp for underplaying the importance of industrial agriculture for national development in the Global South. Full article

Access to food products is becoming more and more complex due to population growth, climate change, political and economic instability, disruptions in the global value chain, as well as changes in consumption dynamics and food insecurity. Therefore, agri-food chains face increasingly greater challenges in responding to these dynamics, where the digitalization of agri-food systems has become an innovative alternative. However, efforts to adopt and use the technologies of the fourth industrial revolution (precision agriculture, smart agriculture, the Industrial Internet of Things, and the Internet of Food, among others) are still a challenge to improve efficiency in the links of production (cultivation), processing (food production), and final consumption, from the perspective of the implementation of Food Informatics technologies that improve traceability, authenticity, consumer confidence, and reduce fraud. This systematic literature review proposes the identification of barriers and enablers for the implementation of Food Informatics technologies in the links of the agri-food chain. The PRISMA methodology was implemented for the identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion of articles from the Scopus and Clarivate databases. A total of 206 records were included in the in-depth analysis, through which a total of 34 barriers to the adoption of Food Informatics technologies (13 for the production link, 12 for the processing link, and 9 for the marketing link) and a total of 27 enablers (8 for the production link, 11 for the processing link, and 8 for the marketing link) were identified. Among the barriers analogous to the three links analyzed are privacy and information security and high investment and maintenance costs, while the analogous enablers are mainly government support. Full article

In this paper, we present the development and evaluation of a contextually relevant, cost-effective, multihop cluster-based agricultural Internet of Things (MCA-IoT) network. This network utilizes commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) and LoRa communication technologies, along with the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ (RPi 3 B+), to address the challenges of climate change-induced global food insecurity in smart farming applications. Employing the lean engineering design approach, we initially implemented a centralized cluster-based agricultural IoT (CA-IoT) hardware testbed incorporating BLE, RPi 3 B+, STEMMA soil moisture sensors, UM25 m, and LoPy low-power Wi-Fi modules. This system was subsequently adapted and refined to assess the performance of the MCA-IoT network. This study offers a comprehensive reference on the novel, location-independent MCA-IoT technology, including detailed design and deployment insights for the agricultural IoT (Agri-IoT) community. The proposed solution demonstrated favorable performance in indoor and outdoor environments, particularly in water-stressed regions of Northern Ghana. Performance evaluations revealed that the MCA-IoT technology is easy to deploy and manage by users with limited expertise, is location-independent, robust, energy-efficient for battery operation, and scalable in terms of task and size, thereby providing a versatile range of measurements for future applications. Our results further demonstrated that the most effective approach to utilizing existing IoT-based communication technologies within a typical farming context in sub-Saharan Africa is to integrate them. Full article

The One Health (OH) concept has evolved significantly in recent decades, emerging as a key framework guiding international research and policy in managing new infectious diseases, chiefly zoonoses. While its initial conception revolved around managing zoonotic diseases as they traverse the interface between animals and humans through the environment, this concept has transformed beyond its origins as a collaboration solely between veterinary and public health stakeholders. Notably, the past decade has ushered in a new era of addressing complex issues in a novel manner. Emerging evidence has led to a fresh theoretical framework, highlighting interconnected terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Understanding these links is crucial in tackling emerging issues and resultant health challenges within these systems under what we call One Health 2.0. The current paper describes Climate-Smart One Health (CS-OH) and Climate-Smart Integrated Pest Management (CS-IPM) approaches, emphasizing holistic perspectives and practical tools. The One Health (OH) 2.0 concept applies to the agricultural sector and more specifically to agrifood systems exposed to climate change impacts. It is meant to address, in a comprehensive manner, soil, water, plant, animal, rural and urban farmers and farming communities, and consumer health issues. The One Health (OH) 2.0 concept is embodied in the Climate-Smart One Health (CS-OH) approach. The latter is designed for applications in agrifood systems. Pathways for the deployment of both CS-OH and CS-IPM interventions are proposed in this paper. A Ghanaian case is discussed. Full article