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The transition of food systems towards sustainability: The role of digitalization

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  • Gianluca Brunori

Abstract

The paper explores the complex relationship between digital and ecological transitions, particularly focusing on their interdependence and potential to drive sustainability. It acknowledges that digitalization, while offering numerous benefits such as efficiency and scalability, does not inherently lead to sustainability. The text highlights three critical aspects influencing digitalization?s impact: the design of digital solutions, access to these solutions, and the complexity of systems integrating digital technologies. Challenges such as the risk of exacerbating inequalities and the necessity for comprehensive governance to mitigate negative effects are discussed. The paper also delves into the digital transition within the agri-food sector, emphasizing the contrast between conventional agriculture and agroecological approaches, which prioritize diversity and resilience. It argues that digital tools can support more sustainable and diverse agricultural practices if correctly aligned with ecological principles. Finally, the text calls for targeted innovation policies to ensure that digital transition contributes effectively to ecological goals, suggesting that a thoughtful and directed approach is essential for realizing the transformative potential of digitalization in fostering a sustainable future.

Suggested Citation

  • Gianluca Brunori, 2024. "The transition of food systems towards sustainability: The role of digitalization," Economia agro-alimentare, FrancoAngeli Editore, vol. 2024(3), pages 53-69.
    • Handle: RePEc:fan:ecaqec:v:html10.3280/ecag2024oa17771
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Silvia Rolandi & Gianluca Brunori & Manlio Bacco & Ivano Scotti, 2021. "The Digitalization of Agriculture and Rural Areas: Towards a Taxonomy of the Impacts," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(9), pages 1-16, May.
    2. Dosi, Giovanni, 1993. "Technological paradigms and technological trajectories : A suggested interpretation of the determinants and directions of technical change," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 22(2), pages 102-103, April.
    3. Jordi Molas-Gallart & Alejandra Boni & Sandro Giachi & Johan Schot, 2021. "A formative approach to the evaluation of Transformative Innovation Policies [The Need for Reflexive Evaluation Approaches in Development Cooperation]," Research Evaluation, Oxford University Press, vol. 30(4), pages 431-442.
    4. Bellon-Maurel, Véronique & Lutton, Evelyne & Bisquert, Pierre & Brossard, Ludovic & Chambaron-Ginhac, Stéphanie & Labarthe, Pierre & Lagacherie, Philippe & Martignac, Francois & Molenat, Jérome & Pari, 2022. "Digital revolution for the agroecological transition of food systems: A responsible research and innovation perspective," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 203(C).
    5. Wolfgang Kerber & Heike Schweitzer, 2017. "Interoperability in the digital economy," MAGKS Papers on Economics 201712, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics, Department of Economics (Volkswirtschaftliche Abteilung).
    6. Berbel, J. & Mateos, L., 2014. "Does investment in irrigation technology necessarily generate rebound effects? A simulation analysis based on an agro-economic model," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 128(C), pages 25-34.
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    1. Vladi Finotto & Christine Mauracher & Chiara Rinaldi, 2024. "Guest Editorial. Twin transition in agrifood: Digital and green transitions for sustainable, competitive, and resilient food systems," Economia agro-alimentare, FrancoAngeli Editore, vol. 2024(3), pages 47-52.

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