Climate change: A catch-22 for agriculture?

The more I learn about climate change, the more I realize how many areas of our lives are affected by this complex challenge. Take agriculture, for instance. On the surface, agriculture seems like a relatively green industry. But the truth is, the carbon dioxide emissions associated with agriculture electricity consumption are significant, and the methane produced by cattle and nitrous oxide in fertilizer is damaging the earth’s atmosphere.

?In fact, according to a study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, agriculture and forestry together are estimated to account for 10.5% of U.S. greenhouse gases. But there is a positive side to this story. While agriculture and forestry do contribute to climate change, both have the ability to reduce greenhouse gases and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Talk about a catch-22 when it comes to slowing climate change.

?By using technology and digitalization, however, agriculture can put sustainability first. An impressive example of sustainable, efficient agriculture can be found in 80 Acres Farms. By using vertical farming technology, 80 Acres Farms has adapted to the challenges of climate change while making large strides in its sustainability journey. I am proud that Siemens has been chosen to work alongside 80 Acres Farms to help digitalize and centralize its farming service by collecting its data into one control system.

?With digitalization and farming technology, 80 Acres Farms is able to grow crops without having to worry about uncontrollable—and oftentimes volatile—factors, such as extreme weather conditions and resource scarcity. In a time when reducing carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions is crucial, 80 Acres Farms has committed to using digital solutions to make a significant impact on net zero goals.

?As a leader in providing sustainable solutions for the world, we must walk the walk. We must be green. And our commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2030 is just the first step. The journey to sustainability and decarbonization is complex, but we are equipped to help our customers navigate their journey to create a future they can be proud of.

I am impressed with the way that 80 Acres understands that a smart building, much like farming, relies on its ecosystem. We strive to create a portfolio of curated solutions for our clients so that they can create and use technology to encourage each building’s unique ecosystem, similar to the technological strides 80 Acres has already made.

Siemens is a partner for the long haul, paving the way for a better tomorrow with the sustainability goals that we achieve today. Click here to learn more about our work with 80 Acres Farms.