Waste Minimization in Agri-Food Supply Chains through Digitization

Abstract

The agricultural industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, with advancements in machinery leading to increased scale, speed, and productivity of farm equipment. These improvements, combined with advancements in genetically modified seeds, irrigation systems, and fertilizers, have led to more efficient cultivation of land and higher yields. However, the industry is now on the brink of another transformation, driven by data and connectivity. In Sri Lanka, agriculture is a vital sector of the economy, contributing significantly to 7.1% of the Gross Domestic Product in 2020 and employing 27.12% of the labor force directly and indirectly [1]. The output of the agriculture industry has a significant impact on industries such as consumer packaged goods, retail, and tourism, further emphasizing its importance.