Woolworths turning to drones and other high-tech in South Africa

Woolworths’ suppliers are increasingly using drones amid a push for regenerative agriculture and water conservation.

Specifically, the group’s suppliers are using drone technology to identify plants under stress, allowing farmers to make data-driven decisions and conserve water resources, it said.

Farmers can monitor the health of crops and detect signs of strain by utilising drones with advanced sensors, allowing for targeted irrigation and resource management.

“Some of our farmers use drones to check for trees that are compromised,” said Latiefa Behardien, Chief Food Technology and Sustainability Officer at Woolworths’ Farming for the Future.

“Instead of watering all the trees all the time, the farmer can water only those who are thirsty and manage this precious resource better. This is just one example of how technology is transforming agriculture and paving the way for a more sustainable future.”

Through drone technology, farmers can optimise water usage, reduce waste and mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture practices.

Data-driven insights also allow farmers to enhance crop resilience and improve yield.

Farming the Future also uses science and technology to protect and conserve water resources through the use of soil moisture sensors and predictive analytics.

“We believe that technology has the power to unlock new possibilities in agriculture and drive positive change for our collective future,” said Behardien.

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