Leveraging Industry 4.0 Technologies in the Food Sector to Reduce Poverty (SDG 1)
Publication Name: Sustainable Development Goals Series
Publication Date: 2025-01-01
Volume: Part F1068
Issue: Unknown
Page Range: 51-67
Description:
This chapter examines how fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) technologies can serve as powerful enablers for poverty reduction by transforming the food sector, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1). Recognizing poverty as a multidimensional challenge, the chapter focuses on the role of recent technological innovations, such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, blockchain, and big data, among other Industry 4.0 technologies, in revolutionizing agriculture and the food industry. These innovative advances offer significant potential to enhance productivity, optimize resource use, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase market access for smallholder farmers and food producers. Through a literature review, the chapter outlines mechanisms by which Industry 4.0 can generate inclusive employment and elevate incomes in rural and underserved communities. The findings emphasize that effective digital transformation in the food sector requires targeted investments in infrastructure, skills development, supportive policy frameworks, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. By strategically leveraging Industry 4.0 innovations, the food system can become a critical vehicle for sustainable, inclusive economic development and long-term poverty alleviation.
Open Access: Yes