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Safe Wheat Agriculture Towards Sustainable Health: Innovative Sensing Techniques, and Holistic Spectroscopy Traceability for Improved Soil, plant Health and safe wheat grain

Project description

Tracing the wheat path from soil to shelf

Climate change has a direct impact on food systems and food security. This is the reason why the response of crops to the environment of vital importance. The EU-funded WHEATWATCHER project aims to use proximal and remote sensors, automated mapping and machine learning to monitor the major soil stressors affecting wheat cultivation and production across Europe. This monitoring data is then converted into useful information for wheat cropping management using a cloud-based platform and decision-support system. This is carried out with the aim of enhancing sustainability and transparency in the wheat value chain through technological and participatory approaches.

Objective

In a world grappling with complex global challenges such as population growth, climate change, and environmental degradation, ensuring security, sustainability, and food safety is paramount. Agricultural practices and food production processes are integral to public health, economic stability, and societal well-being. However, conventional approaches have often operated in isolation, limiting our understanding and hindering scalability. The WHEATWATCHER initiative seeks to break these barriers by uniting soil health monitoring, plant health assessment, and food traceability through a cutting-edge digital soil monitoring system. This system assesses soil nutrition, chemical, and biological factors impacting wheat grains from field growth to flour production, spanning multiple European regions. By actively involving stakeholders, including farmers, mill proprietors, and policymakers, WHEATWATCHER tailors its solution to practical needs. It leverages diverse sensor technologies, advanced machine learning models, and automated mapping techniques to boost efficiency and scalability. A Decision Support System and cloud platform ensure accessible insights. At its core, a machine learning model seamlessly integrates technologies, creating a cohesive solution that bridges the gaps between soil health, plant health, and food traceability. WHEATWATCHER aims to foster harmony between sensing technologies, data processing, and stakeholder engagement, revolutionizing comprehensive monitoring.

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-IA - HORIZON Innovation Actions

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MISS-2023-SOIL-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERSITEIT GENT
Net EU contribution
€ 1 064 436,25
Address
SINT PIETERSNIEUWSTRAAT 25
9000 Gent
Belgium
Region
Vlaams Gewest Prov. Oost-Vlaanderen Arr. Gent
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
€ 1 064 436,25

Participants (13)

Partners (1)