Page 12 - UN Executive Briefing on Unlocking the potential of virtual worlds and the metaverse for the Sustainable Development Goals

UN Executive Briefing on Unlocking the potential of virtual worlds and
the metaverse for the Sustainable Development Goals

Goal 2: Zero Hunger

End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture

Digital agriculture powered by virtual worlds enabling technologies such
as Internet of Things (IoT), digital twin, and blockchain holds the promise
of more efficient and accessible food production and distribution,
contributing to the achievement of Goal 2 [b-FAO]. However, ensuring
access to these solutions in rural areas and bridging the digital divide
remain crucial challenges that must be overcome.
In rural areas, where agriculture plays a significant role, limited access
to reliable Internet connectivity and digital technologies hinders digital transformation and the
adoption of virtual-based solutions. Bridging the digital divide is essential to ensure that rural
communities have equitable access to the digital infrastructure and tools needed to improve
agricultural practices and enhance food distribution systems [b-FAO2].
Digital agriculture, powered by the metaverse, offers promising opportunities in supporting
sustainable farming practices and knowledge sharing. Using digital twin technology-enabled
simulations, farmers can gain valuable insights into optimal crop cultivation techniques, resource
management and climate adaptation strategies [b-ITU8]. Moreover, virtual communities and
platforms can serve as hubs for exchanging information, sharing best practices, and empowering
farmers to enhance their productivity and adopt sustainable agricultural practices.

Efficient supply chain management is another area that can benefit from digital transformation
enabled by virtual worlds, with digital twin technology playing an important role in optimising
supply chains by providing virtual simulations and analytics tools. Utilising these tools may
allow stakeholders to track and manage their inventory to improve food distribution systems
while reducing food waste more efficiently.

Case study: metaverse for enhanced productivity and sustainability

E-Geos’ AgriGeo Platform is a cutting-edge metaverse application that integrates multiple
sensors and data sources, providing farmers with detailed soil quality analysis, which is crucial
for enhancing land productivity. The technology measures key factors such as water stress and
humidity, enabling farmers to significantly reduce water and energy consumption by nearly 40
per cent. The AgriGeo Platform represents a leap forward in precision farming, allowing for
the simulation of farming and production systems within a virtual world. This facilitates efficient
trials and data collection, which traditionally require more time and resources. The platform’s
innovative approach to data visualisation and scenario simulation supports farmers and field
technicians in optimising production and making informed decisions [b-ISAM].

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