Ahead of Canadian Agriculture Day, a University of Guelph agricultural leader says what's needed to make the country's food system stronger and more resilient is greater adoption of agriculture technology.
Dr. John Cranfield
Dr. John Cranfield is an agricultural economist who leads the Ontario Agricultural College as interim dean.
He says as Canada considers how to increase its food sovereignty and avoid supply chain disruptions, a focus on the role of agri-tech to ensure food security must be part of the national conversation.
"A strong, innovative agricultural sector is the backbone of Canada's economy and food system, yet it faces mounting challenges from climate change, supply chain disruptions, and global instability," he says.
What's needed is investment in established and emerging technologies such as vertical farming, field robotics, soil data management and more, Cranfield says.
"Investment in agri-tech drives sustainability, enhances productivity, and strengthens our food security," he says. "It's a national priority that impacts every Canadian."
Cranfield adds that Canada needs to commit to policies that support agri-tech research, innovation, and infrastructure, "to ensure a secure and resilient food system for generations to come."
