In the fertile area of Canelones Oeste, identified with fruit and vegetable production, a group of producers is leading the AGROTIC project, a pioneering initiative that promises to change the local agricultural landscape. It is presented by the Agrarian Cooperative Limited of Canelones Producers (CALPRODEC), which is at the forefront of the integration of digital technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability in family agricultural production.
Innovation and development in family farming
In a recent session of theCanelones Oeste Rural Development Board, presented his ambitious projectAGROTIC, focused on the adaptation of digital solutions to overcome the training and commercial barriers faced by local agricultural producers. This initiative not only seeks to modernize agricultural practices, but also to strengthen the competitive capacity of small producers in an increasingly demanding market.
Martin Rivara, who played a crucial role in the conception of the project, explained the evolution from initial idea to practical implementation."We started with the idea of improving the traceability of our products, but we soon realized that we needed a more complete solution",rivara pointed out. Thus was born the proposal to use QR code technology to allow consumers to track each stage of the process, from harvest to marketing.
The system ofqR Codesimplemented byCALPRODECnot only ensures the transparency and quality of the products, but also optimizes the cooperative's internal processes. Each QR code contains detailed information about the origin of the product, harvest dates and post-harvest handling methods, providing consumers with guarantees about the freshness and origin of the food they purchase.
Rivara highlighted the importance of digital training within the project.«We are committed to training our members in the effective use of iCTs, Ensuring that everyone has the necessary skills to make the most of these technological tools.«, he stated. This initiative not only seeks to reduce digital gaps in rural areas, but also promote equal opportunities between men and women within the cooperative.
Strategic collaborations
The success ofAGROTIChas been possible thanks to strategic collaborations with key institutions such as theMetropolitan Agri-Food Unit (UAM) and the National Food Institute (INDA). These associations have provided the technical and logistical support necessary for the implementation and expansion of the project, ensuring that it meets the standards required by government agricultural support programs.
Further, CALPRODEChas worked closely with these entities to ensure that the projectAGROTICnot only benefit its members, but also contribute to the sustainable development of the agricultural community in Canelones. Martín Rivara stressed that the commitment to“continue improving and sharing our experiences with other producers and cooperatives in Uruguay”.
Driving productivity and business transparency
One of the cornerstones of the project is the implementation of an advanced traceability system using QR codes.Martin Rivara, representative ofCALPRODEC, explained how this system not only guarantees the quality and freshness of the products from harvest to the final consumer, but also optimizes logistics and marketing processes."Each QR contains vital information, such as the harvest date, whether the product was refrigerated and details about the producer"Rivara pointed out. This transparency not only strengthens consumer confidence, but also facilitates the internal management of the cooperative.
In addition to improving traceability,AGROTICis training CALPRODEC members in the use and management ofICTs, focusing on closing digital gaps in rural communities. This inclusive approach not only promotes gender equality, but also strengthens the technical capacities of farmers, allowing them to accessmarketsbroader and more competitive.
AsAGROTICcontinues to expand, CALPRODEC has plans to expand its impact and reach in the region. This includes actively promoting the project in various forums and events, as well as exploring new opportunities for collaboration with key players in the agricultural and technological sector.«We want to continue innovating and exploring new ways to strengthen our cooperative and our community»Rivara concluded.