Resilient food tech

Farmers in Calabria (Italy) harness solar power to protect their citrus and lemon trees from climate stress. Antonio Lancellotta, his father Mario, and their citrus trees are literally grown beneath their solar farms. Agrivoltaics is a practice that allows farmers to protect their crops and collect solar energy while protecting them from harsh sunlight. It benefits both people and the planet.

In Arizona, small farmers and gardeners are turning to indigenous farming techniques to continue to grow crops in the midst of a long-lasting drought. Many residents have adapted their lawns so that they can use less water to grow more food. Gardeners are using permaculture techniques like drip irrigation, composting, and rainwater collection to maintain their carefully curated ecosystems. The collective effort has created communities that include people from all walks of life, including different races, economic backgrounds, and political views.

Similarly, a growing number of farmers around the world are returning to an ancient Italian practice this summer in order to combat droughts and extreme heat. They raise livestock on pastures lined with trees, creating a cooperative ecosystem that benefits both flora and fauna. In silvopasture, the animals are fed by fallen fruit, trees, and grass. The manure from their waste is then used to fertilize trees. The trees also protect the animals against the harsh weather and sun due to climate change.

Intelligence Take

Farmers and gardeners are looking for ways to maximize their crops and pastures to adapt to changing climates. They use everything from indigenous techniques to modern technology. These technological advancements are continuing to grow, proving that there is still room to expand the tech in the field of produce and crops.