ABACO Group and NIAB, two leading players in European agri-tech and crop science, have unveiled the Soil Health Scorecard (SHSC), a digital application designed to assist farmers and growers in managing and improving the health and productivity of their soil. By providing a comprehensive database for recording and analyzing soil sample results, this innovative solution offers practical advice on enhancing soil quality.
This collaboration comes at a critical time for the agricultural and farming sectors in the UK, as rising costs and soil degradation have created a challenging environment. By harnessing technology and innovation, the partners aim to improve soil quality, increase productivity, and enhance sustainability in food production. Recognizing its potential, ASDA, Tesco, and McCain have already integrated this solution into their supply chains.
The scorecard revolutionizes soil health management by establishing an open, accessible, and data-driven platform for data collection and benchmarking. By enabling farmers to measure the success of different management practices, it offers tailored recommendations for improving soil health.
The introduction of the Scorecard marks a significant milestone in fast-tracking the technological transition in agriculture and tackling crucial issues in food production. Leveraging AI analytics, this innovative tool promises to transform the way farmers approach soil health management. The collaboration between various stakeholders is a remarkable step toward sustainable and forward-thinking farming practices.
Expressing his support, Chris Brown, Senior Director of Sustainable Supply Chains at ASDA, states that, “This platform is the first of its kind and will enable key stakeholders to monitor and improve soil across the UK. We believe it is a step in the right direction towards more sustainable farming practices.”
In addition to improving soil health, this digital solution facilitates targeted and efficient use of nutrients, enhances yield resilience, reduces the reliance on fertilizers, and promotes biodiversity. It also offers an enterprise view and benchmarking of soil health within the agricultural supply chain, deploying cutting-edge technology.
Elizabeth Stockdale, Head of Farming Systems Research for NIAB, emphasizes the significance of preserving soil for future generations, stating, “We cannot overstate the importance of protecting the soil for generations to come, and the Soil Health Scorecard will help ensure that we do just that.”
Natalie Smith, Head of Agriculture at Tesco, recognizes the critical role of soils in the natural environment, and highlights the need for ongoing improvement. She believes that this innovative platform will empower farmers and the wider food industry to monitor and enhance soil health, and Tesco is eager to trial it within their supply chain.
James Young, VP of Agriculture at McCain GB&I, emphasizes the importance of regenerative farming practices to overcome the challenges facing British agriculture. He expresses delight in trialing the groundbreaking Soil Health Scorecard app, which he believes will be a valuable tool in supporting the adoption of sustainable practices and achieving their goal of implementing regenerative agriculture across their entire potato acreage by 2030.
