Blockchain and agriculture may seem like two unrelated fields, but as Yana Leonova explains in episode 19 of the 'Clear Crypto Podcast', their combination can address some of the urgent challenges humanity faces, such as food waste and land disputes.
Practical applications of blockchain
Leonova states, 'Agriculture can be an excellent example of how blockchain can benefit the Earth, sustainability, and each of us.' Her PhD in agricultural economics and her work in Dubai's innovation ecosystem place her at the intersection of blockchain and real-world impact.
A significant application is supply chain transparency. Projects like IBM Food Trust and WWF's OpenSC have already tracked products like seafood and palm oil on the chain.
In the UAE, the Farm to Plate project mentioned by Leonova is expected to reduce $6 billion in food waste by matching supply and demand in real-time. She explained:
'Blockchain can provide a real-time picture... data is key.'
Technology not only drives logistics improvement but also empowers smallholders. 'We can use tokens and smart contracts... no intermediaries, no bias,' says Leonova.
'If farmers provide food, they will be compensated automatically and fairly.'
The philosophy of blockchain
The discussion also touched on the role of blockchain in legal justice. Leonova proposed how an immutable ledger could protect land ownership, especially when paper records are lost in disasters.
'No one can impose rights on your property. You cannot bribe the blockchain.'
Co-hosts Nathan Jeffay and Gareth Jenkinson emphasize that these examples are changing the perception of blockchain as merely speculative. Nathan said, 'This is not about remote cryptography or currency trading, but about solving real problems.'
Despite lingering skepticism, Leonova is optimistic about the promotion of blockchain.
'Recognizing and adapting to blockchain takes time... but once trust is established, it can play a huge role for humanity.'
To listen to the full conversation, visit Cointelegraph's
Podcast page.