The Role of Technology in Mitigating Scarcity in Global Food Value Chains
摘要
Global food value chains (GFVCs) are under increasing strain from climate change, population growth, resource depletion, and geopolitical disruptions, intensifying the risks of food scarcity. This chapter examines the pivotal role of technology in mitigating scarcity by enhancing efficiency, resilience, and sustainability across production, processing, distribution, and consumption stages. Technological innovations—including precision agriculture, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, cold chain logistics, and automation—are transforming food systems by improving yields, reducing waste, and strengthening supply chain traceability. Emerging digital platforms and smart devices also empower consumers to minimize food loss and promote circular economy practices such as biofuel production from waste. While technology offers vast potential for enhancing food security, its adoption is uneven due to high costs, infrastructure deficits, regulatory challenges, and ethical concerns over genetically modified organisms and the labor shifts induced by automation. Overcoming these barriers requires coordinated investment, public–private partnerships, and inclusive policies that support innovation and equitable access. The study concludes that technology-driven solutions are indispensable for building resilient and sustainable GFVCs, aligning with global efforts to reduce hunger, ensure nutrition, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).