Upland Agricultural Consulting’s Post

As we envision the role of agriculture in the next 25 years, Edward O. Wilson's concept of consilience offers an exciting framework for envisioning the future. In his groundbreaking book Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge (initially published in 1998), Wilson advocates for integrating knowledge across disciplines to address complex challenges, a crucial principle for agriculture's future. The concept of consilience - the "jumping together" of knowledge across disciplines to create explanation – emphasizes the importance of a unified approach combining insights from biology, ecology, technology, and the social sciences. Wilson’s framework asserts that all branches of knowledge, from the natural sciences to the humanities, are fundamentally interconnected and can be integrated into a cohesive worldview. He calls for increased collaboration and dialogue between ‘hard’ scientists and scholars in the social sciences and humanities to break down disciplinary silos. How can consilience help shape agriculture's future? Here are a few thoughts: Precision Agriculture: By integrating data science, robotics, plant biology, and human behavior, precision agriculture can optimize crop yields and resource efficiency. This approach reflects Wilson's idea of using scientific rigor to address practical challenges. Agroecology and Biodiversity: Wilson's advocacy for biodiversity and ecological principles leads to more resilient farming systems that protect and enhance the environment and make the business of agriculture more resilient. His emphasis on preserving biodiversity aligns with sustainable agricultural practices that enhance ecosystems. Biotechnology and Genetic Research: Wilson's work highlights the potential of biotechnology, such as genomics and synthetic biology, to develop climate-resilient crops. This consilient approach can help address food security in the face of climate change. Environmental Policy and Ethics: Wilson stresses the integration of environmental policy and ethics, advocating for a holistic view that considers the long-term impacts of agricultural practices on the environment and society. Systems Thinking and Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Wilson's call for collaboration across disciplines encourages the development of models that consider the complex interactions between farms, ecosystems, markets, and climate. This systems thinking is essential for creating sustainable agricultural policies. Wilson's consilient approach provides a blueprint for innovation and sustainability in agriculture. By embracing this holistic perspective, we can ensure that agriculture continues to thrive and support human civilization in the coming decades. What other ways do you see consilience shaping the future of agriculture?  #Agriculture #Consilience #Sustainability #Innovation #FutureOfFood

The next generation of farmers, land managers, and agricultural scientists are learning, developing opinions, and deciding their pathways at institutions like the Royal Agricultural University ⁠ Our We Feed The World exhibition now fills these teaching spaces, spotlighting the folk who feed 70% of the world using less than a quarter of its agricultural land and encouraging students to think critically about the future of farming.⁠ ⁠ Hopefully, these #YoungFarmers will help grow a food system that cultivates equality, justice and diversity, so that small-scale producers can continue nourishing all on Earth. ⁠ “They tell stories, they inspire, they educate; which are all of the things we are trying to do as a university” – Director of External Relations, RAU https://lnkd.in/e6w4Qfun

How do you push the boundaries of agricultural innovation? You partner with the brightest minds to push CEA practices and systems to new limits! We’ve just reached a new phase at the University of Wyoming, where our Harvest Walls are being installed, exploring innovative practices for real-world system applications.
 Together we are going beyond the standard typical installations. We are pushing our technological designs and horticultural practices to prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders. Here’s what this means for the students and universities: 🌱 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀-𝗼𝗻 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: Students will gain practical experience by experimenting with advanced farming techniques, preparing them for the future of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). 🔬 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹-𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: From low-light environments to nutrient variations, students will explore how to grow in challenging conditions, giving them a deeper understanding of agricultural resilience. 🌍 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗼𝘄’𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀: The university is not just teaching theory—it’s preparing students to be innovators in the agricultural space, with skills they can directly apply to solve real-world challenges. In collaboration with Dr. Carmela Rosaria Guadagno and Michael Baldwin, this initiative will equip students with the tools and experience they need to drive the future of farming. We’re not talking about innovation. Together, we’re here to prove it! ___________________________________________
 👋 Rick Langille, CEO Harvest Today 🔗 Follow for more real world insights and inspiration! 🌱 Empowering communities to grow fresh, sustainable food #AgricultureInnovation #NextGenFarming #ControlledEnvironmentAgriculture

In 2011, I completed my 12th grade, fueled by a curiosity for the environment. This led me to pursue a Geography Honors degree from Kirodimal College, which I completed in 2014. My academic journey continued with a Master's in Environment and Development from the School of Human Ecology, completed in 2016. It was during this time that my passion for sustainability took root. Driven by a commitment to conservation, I began working on preserving desi seeds and ventured into organic farming. The initial years were challenging, marked by significant losses. However, perseverance paid off, and by 2018, my efforts began to bear fruit. Our fields became a hub of learning, attracting numerous visitors, especially B.Sc. Agriculture students eager to understand sustainable practices. The lockdown in 2020 brought a pivotal change. With everything going online, I seized the opportunity to share my knowledge digitally. I launched an online course, and by 2021, I started focusing seriously on YouTube. Our channel quickly became the fastest-growing agriculture channel of 2021, and by 2023, we were the most viewed in the field. This journey reached a new pinnacle in 2024 when I was honored with the National Creator Award for the Most Impactful Agri Creator by none other than PM Modi himself. From humble beginnings to national recognition, this journey has been a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of sustainability, and the impact of sharing knowledge. Thank you to everyone who has supported and believed in this vision. Together, we are cultivating a greener, more sustainable future. 🌿 #SustainableAgriculture #OrganicFarming #AgriCreator #NationalAward #Journey #Sustainability #EnvironmentalConservation

"Empowering Farmers with Scientific Solutions" As scientists engrossed in pursuing knowledge and groundbreaking discoveries, we meticulously research, publish, and engage in lively academic discourse. However, a crucial step often gets left behind in this pursuit: translating our findings into actionable policies that directly empower the farming communities we aim to serve. #ResearchImpact #PolicyChange It's time to move beyond the confines of academic journals and actively engage with policymakers and advocacy groups. We must ensure our research informs evidence-based policies addressing the pressing needs of real-world farmers. After all, the true measure of our impact lies not in citations, but in the tangible improvements we bring to those who rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. #ActionableResearch #BridgingTheGap #EmpoweringCommunities Let's break the echo chamber of academia and bridge the gap between research and policy implementation. By doing so, we can unlock the full potential of our scientific endeavours and drive meaningful change in agriculture. Together, let's harness the power of knowledge to empower farming communities and create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. #SustainableFuture #SciencePolicy #Agriculture

Greetings, fellow connections! In the realm of the 8-week General Vegetable Production - Agribusiness certification, I've harvested a wealth of wisdom in crop economics, production intricacies, and vigilant protection strategies. Armed with this knowledge, I am now adept at navigating the agricultural labyrinth, fine-tuning resource allocation, and deploying impactful strategies. The harmonious collaboration with East-West Seed and Wageningen University & Research sculpted an educational masterpiece, seamlessly weaving practical insights with the tapestry of academic rigor. Enthusiasm pulsates within me to sow the seeds of expertise across diverse agribusiness domains, fostering sustainable farming, amplifying crop yields, and crafting fortifying protection strategies. This certification isn't just a scholarly accolade; it stands tall as a testament to my dedication to propelling the wheels of sustainable agriculture forward. Heartfelt gratitude unfurls towards the East-West Seed Knowledge Transfer Foundation, East-West Seed, and Wageningen University & Research for nurturing this transformative program. A special bouquet of thanks blooms for Stuart Morris and Flip Van Koesveld, whose guidance has been an invaluable compass. The support and wisdom received during this odyssey of learning are cherished and acknowledged. #eastwestseed #wageningenuniversity #agrobusiness #education #sustainableagriculture #farming #professionaldevelopment #innovation #technology #futurism #socialmedia

🌱 Sharing Science Across Disciplines: A Fun and Engaging Experience! As scientists, we often focus on advancing knowledge within our field, but how often do we take the time to share our work with colleagues from different areas? I had the incredible opportunity to do just that at International Potato Center (CIP) (CIP), showcasing our work in conservation agriculture to our amazing colleagues from finance, IT, grants and contracts, among others. During the event, we explored how practices like zero tillage and mulching with rice straw can transform farming, improve soil health, and even help mitigate climate change. The highlight? Demonstrating how potatoes can be grown sustainably without tilling the soil—right here at CIP! 🌍🥔 It was a joy to see everyone, from departments not typically involved in agriculture, get their hands dirty (quite literally!) and engage with the science that drives our work. These cross-departmental exchanges are not only fun, but they help foster a deeper understanding of our collective mission. 🔑 Key takeaway: Science becomes stronger when shared. No matter your field, take the time to bring your work closer to your colleagues—you never know the new perspectives and collaborations that might emerge! Watch this space for the video of the event and a behind-the-scenes look at how CIP is pushing the boundaries of sustainable farming. 🚜✨ #ScienceCommunication #RegenerativeAgriculture #Collaboration #Sustainability #PotatoResearch #Teamwork

🌟 New Issue Alert! 🌟 The latest issue of ‘Australian University Science’ magazine is packed with insights showing how science is paving the way for a successful transition to a net zero emissions economy! 🌏💡 From physics to biology, chemistry to earth sciences, every scientific discipline plays a crucial role in this vital journey. One of the key sectors we dive into is agriculture, highlighting how it can significantly contribute to our sustainable future. 🚜🌾 In this issue, Dr Debra Cousins, Chair of the Zero Net Emissions Agriculture Cooperative Research Centre (ZNE-Ag CRC), discusses how this initiative, involving 11 university partners, three Indigenous organisations, and multiple industry partners, secured $300 million in funding over 10 years. She emphasises the critical role of university science in developing innovative solutions for reducing agricultural emissions, which account for 16% of Australia's total emissions. By combining multiple technologies and leveraging fundamental university research, the CRC aims to create pathways to low-emissions agriculture that are effective, impactful, and economically viable for farmers. Don’t miss out on these inspiring articles and research findings that underline the importance of science in solving the world’s most pressing challenges. See https://lnkd.in/gB6ng5sC Melissa Brown, Mark Buntine FRACI CChem, GAICD Jacqui Ramagge Adam Trevitt Katrina Falkner FTSE Shaun Collin, Marcel Dinger, John Bartlett, Susan Howitt Australian Government Department of Education Department of Industry, Science and Resources Science & Technology Australia Australian Research Council Ed Husic MP Jason Clare MP Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering The Australian Academy of Science Cathy Foley Innovative Research Universities (IRU) Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN Universities) Regional Universities Network The Group of Eight Universities Australia Cooperative Research Australia Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

🌱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗝𝗣 𝗦𝗢𝗜𝗟'𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀: 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗕𝗶𝗴 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁! 📊🍃 Policymakers often lack the time to dive into lengthy scientific reports. That’s where our 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 come in—concise, engaging summaries designed to deliver essential science-backed insights at a glance. Each card distills complex research into simple language and visuals, making it easy for policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public to understand the most pressing issues in soil health and sustainable agriculture. Take a look at our featured example ⬇️, illustrating key findings on 𝘀𝗼𝗶𝗹 𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻 (𝗦𝗢𝗖) 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝘂𝗺𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲—a critical insight in the fight against desertification. This is just one of the 38 Science Snack Cards created so far, each highlighting impactful research results from the EJP SOIL program across Europe. 🔹 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀? •    Easy to grasp: Complex science, made accessible to everyone. •    Visual & Engaging: Eye-catching graphics to make research memorable. •    Policy-Relevant: Targeted insights for informed decision-making. Visit our website to explore the full collection of 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 and stay tuned for more right here on LinkedIn. Let’s make science accessible and impactful! 💡🌍 🔗 Check them out: https://lnkd.in/ddZ-uWc3 #EJPSoil #ScienceCommunication #SoilHealth #SustainableAgriculture #OpenScience #PolicyMakers

Thrilled to share that I have successfully completed my Bachelor of Biosystems Technology Honors degree, specializing in Agriculture and Environmental Technology, with First-Class Honors! 🎓✨ University of Sri Jayewardenepura Grateful for this milestone and excited to take on new challenges and opportunities in the journey ahead. 🌱🌏 #Graduation #BiosystemsTechnology #FirstClassHonors #Agriculture #EnvironmentalTechnology #NewBeginnings"