1268 | 961 | Smart and sustainable transition in agriculture and agri-food: why do institutions matter?

The agricultural and agri-food sector has been facing serious pressure from global sustainability challenges. It is expected to increase food quality and quantity and thus resolve problems of food insecurity; in parallel, the decrease of emissions’ and the environmental impact of its operations is anticipated. The sector’s transition towards more sustainable practices and green economy is enabled and sustained in particular by smart and digital technologies._x000D_
At the same time, the process of integration of novel technologies and development of digital strategies is framed by the existing institutional environment, which is composed by formal and informal institutions (and institutional actors) and various institutional factors. They can enable or limit the technological applications and their sustainability input; thus, digital technologies cannot be understood as beneficial per se and require an in-depth analysis of the existing environment, identification of powerful institutional actors and factors, and development of a strategy. _x000D_
This work presents the results of a systematic literature review and document analysis on the digital applications and sustainability pillars in agri-food firms’ strategies within the synthesis of an institutional approach and sustainability pillars framework. The research maps a system of interconnected factors and actors, which compose an institutional context or environment (of a certain sector – agriculture and agri-food). The variety of formal and informal institutional factors is crucial for understanding their role in the complex process of smart and sustainable transition. We point out the urge to consider the social impact of innovative technologies, which includes both intended and unintended consequences associated with them. Moreover, the recognition of the role of the institutional environment for technological advancement is crucial for advising the decision-making and creation of supportive policies and research.

Alena Myshko
Ca’ Foscari university

ID Abstract: 961