TECHNOLOGY
TECHNOLOGY IS EVERYWHERE . Everything we interact with in our daily lives has been integrated with the digital world in some way , most likely throughout its production . Even down to what we eat . Farms growing crops and dairy producers are two segments that are particularly under pressure at the moment . Difficulties in recruiting seasonal workers , and pressures to reduce pesticides and chemicals for farmers , while an increasing demand for dairy products at ever lower prices , is putting a strain on production resources . However , recent advancements in technology could solve these problems .
Professor Simon Pearson is the director of the Lincoln Institute of Agrifood Robotics ( LIAT ) at the University of Lincoln . Researchers here are collaborating with industry partners from across the agri-food chain to develop efficient , new robotic systems for farming and food production . Included among the university ’ s partners are major global names such as Nestlé , Tesco , Bakkavor , Bosch , Produce World Group and BOC .
Robotics will be the next revolution in farming and food production according to Professor Pearson : “ The food chain is worth £ 108bn GVA to the UK economy . It employs 3.8mn people and it represents
16 October 2017