Technology

DSM-firmenich and BESTMIX software, through their partnership, unlock the value of sustainable feed production with Sustell. (Image source: BESTMIX Software)

Leading innovator in health, nutrition, and beauty, DSM-Firmenich has entered into partnership with leader in feed and pet food production solutions, BESTMIX Software to measure and manage the environmental footprint of animal feed

Bringing together BESTMIX Software's feed formulation with SustellTM full life cycle assessment (LCA) platform, the partnership allows customers to generate and share their feed footprints easily. This solution enables feed producers to report the environmental impact of their feed, leveraging existing data in their trusted BESTMIX software suite. 

Not only does this collaboration support feed producers to address future demands of feed labelling, but also helps farmers to accurately quantify the impact of products such as eggs, meat, milk and farmed seafood on the environment. This means that feed producers, farmers, processors, food companies, and retailers are now able to accurately report their emissions, while also improving their sustainability practices. 

"Feed is a critical part of the food value chain. By connecting SustellTM with a well-known software player such as BESTMIX, we further realise our ambition to connect the entire farm-to-fork ecosystem," said vice president of Sustainability & Business Solutions at dsm-firmenich, Animal Nutrition & Health, David Nickell. "Reliable, easy-to-use LCA footprinting is the key to enabling cooperation throughout the value chain to meet the challenge and seize the opportunities related to sustainability. 

The platform, the first resource of its kind is focused specifically on Europe and Central Asia. (Image source: FAO)

As the digital agricultural landscape rapidly evolves in Europe and Central Asia, regional challenges have begun to arise, that need to be carefully monitored and addressed

In February this year, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) launched the AgriTech Observatory, offering a tool to monitor the digital agriculture landscape, while identifying innovative solutions to regional challenges and scaling up good practices. 

Equipped with interactive filters, a map, and analytics, the tool enables users to explore a multitude of digital agriculture initiatives, track regional developments and perform analyses. Moreover, it also contributes to existing open data and knowledge sharing initiatives, such as the FAO AgroInformatics Platform.

“The AgriTech Observatory lies at the heart of our dedication to driving digital innovation in agriculture,” said Daniela Di Gianantonio, FAO head of Digital Agriculture. “This dynamic platform addresses the lack of data in digital agriculture in Europe and Central Asia and serves as a crucial knowledge portal for researchers, practitioners and innovators, enabling us to collaboratively transform agrifood systems in the region.”

Throughout this year, the Observatory is set for continuous evolution and enhancement to foster innovation and digital transformation across the agricultural sector.

John Deere debuted five new P-Tier Skid Steer Loaders and Compact Track Loaders. (Image source: John Deere)

John Deere recently debuted five new P-Tier Skid Steer Loader (SSL) and Compact Track Loader (CTL) models boasting a brand-new one-piece cab design with premium options, enhanced technology features and an overall increase in operating power

These new models include the 330 and 334 P-Tier SSLs and the 331, 333 and 335 P-Tier CTLs, which come with the debut of three brand new attachments. These comprise the MK76 and MH72D mulching heads and the CP40G cold planer. In order to enhance productivity on the job, the 333 and 335 P-Tier machines can be equipped with John Deere SmartGrade technology. 

Taking the feedback of their customers into consideration, John Deere has proceeded with prioritising operator comfort and productivity. Customers can now experience better insight and customisation of machine settings and viewing information, by utilising the eight-inch premium touch-screen display interface, available on the full line-up of P-Tier models and standard on the 334 and 335 P-Tier.

The pairing of Bluetooth devices is enabled on the touchscreen display and enables the answering of calls and control of streaming audio, making for seamless operation. With a focus on serviceability, the new cab tilts up in one piece, giving ground-level, all around access to the engine, drivetrain, and undercarriage of the machine. In regard to SmartGrade and Grade Control features, a new hydraulic system has been designed to help operators maximise efforts on the job. 

Moreover, two brand new technology capabilities have also made their debut with the rollout of these models, including Attachment Manager and Surround View. The John Deere Operations Centre will continue to be included on all large-frame CTL and SSL, enabling fleet managers to monitor machine location, codes, fuel usage and other key features more efficiently.

In addition, the company has also debuted strategic Quick-Tatch system updates and three new attachment offerings. A full overhaul of the John Deere Quik-Tatch coupler means customers can experience less downtime and continue to easily switch back and forth between attachments. Also, both install implementation and design improvements have been made to increase customer and confidence, making for a more efficient jobsite.

For more information, visit: www.JohnDeere.com

Women on the production line at the Greater Noida Plant in India. (Image source: CNH)

As part of its ‘A Sustainable Year’ series, CNH has included its second story titled, ‘Training women for the workforce,’ which signifies the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion

The article investigates how increasing the number of women in the workforce can lead to improved productivity, with a highlight on CNH India’s first female apprentices on the shop floor at its Greater Noida agricultural manufacturing plant.

It also explores themes around bringing more women into production roles and overcoming cultural barriers to create generational change. 

“The future for CNH is the inclusion of women at all levels and right now everybody is working toward that,” said Bharti Bist, diversity & inclusion head for Asia Pacific at CNH.