#ETtalks Insights explored the solutions for a carbon-neutral agriculture sector, at Agritechnica 2019

#ETtalks Insight at Agritechnica 2019, Hanover

Putting words into action, at the leading forum on farming technology

The world is on the verge of a transformation. A transformation, in which the climate becomes the core of our businesses. Today’s reality is driving ever more ambitious goals, with more and more companies and countries making a pledge to become carbon-neutral. It’s time to set a vision for the food production sector, with a bold target and collective action from key stakeholders: policy makers, technology experts, and farmers.

The food production sector might be the one facing the greatest disruption in the context of the climate crisis – what are the benefits for those who act now? What can we learn from Denmark’s commitment and 2050 roadmap for a climate-neutral agriculture sector? What is the role that the electrification of farming machinery will play in this journey? Do we already have the electric solutions that can pull the future closer? And what can we learn from those who already apply them? Just a couple of questions answered by our #ETtalks Insights speakers.   

Speakers and topics

The climate crisis is the challenge of our times - why do we need to act now and what to expect for the agriculture sector? Connie Hedegaard set the scene in Hanover.

Navigating the climate crisis: a call-to-action for the agriculture sector

Connie HEDEGAARD, Danish Politician, Former European Commissioner for Climate Action

With two decades of experience in international and domestic executive policy making, Ms. Connie Hedegaard is today assuming several key positions in support of a low-carbon and green economy.

Ms. Hedegaard was the European Commissioner for Climate Action from 2010 to 2014, during which she led the negotiations towards the adoption of the EU 2030 Climate and Energy Framework. Connie has had climate action as a centerpiece of her political effort since she was appointed Minister of Environment to Denmark in 2004.

Electrification will transform the agriculture sector – and this transformation starts by putting the end-users at the center the design process for farming machinery. Simon’s talk focuses on different scenarios on type of tractors and operations where electric or hybrid solutions are applicable today and areas where we need to focus.

The electric future in the making: solutions available today

Simon NIELSEN, Senior Systems Engineer, Danfoss

Simon is a Senior Systems Engineer within the Integrated Solutions department of Danfoss Power Solutions. Integrated Solutions is responsible for developing system solutions for off-highway machinery through the value-added combination of hydraulic and electrical components with control software. Simon has over 10 years of experience working within Danfoss Power Solutions and his main area of expertise is the development of advanced hydrostatic propel systems. He has application knowledge covering a variety of machine types in the agricultural and construction industries and from multiple geographical regions.

In his #ETtalks session, Jouni describes how a design constraint led his team to develop the world’s most powerful hybrid harvesters. What does this mean? For Logset - an opportunity to differentiate in the market and build an innovative profile, for their customers - better business results through increased productivity, and for all of us - significantly less emissions put in the atmosphere.

On the electrification path: what can we learn from the forest industry?

Jouni KYTOVAARA, Research & Development Manager, LOGSET

Jouni leads the development of automation systems at LOGSET, leading player in the forest machinery industry. He has almost 15 years of experience in forest machine technology, and his team is responsible for developing automation systems for future forest machines. Jouni has a Master degree in Business Administration & International Business and Bachelor’s degree Electronics Engineering.

Hans gives an overview of the Denmark’s ambition and solutions to reach a climate-neutral food production sector by 2050, and explains how further collaboration – between different areas of the farm, and between different stakeholders in the sector is required to reach the target.

The 2050 roadmap for a climate-neutral agriculture sector

Hans ROUST THYSEN, Director Construction & Development, SEGES

Hans is director at SEGES in Construction & Environment and has focus on climate and sustainability. SEGES is a professional knowledge and innovation house that covers all aspects of farming and farm management. From crop production, environment, nature conservation, animal husbandry and organic production to finance, tax legislation, law, IT architecture, accounting, HR and training. This is carried out in close cooperation with universities, governments, companies and interest organizations both in Denmark and internationally. SEGES is part of the Danish Agriculture & Food Council.

ETtalks Insights - Entrance Museum in Warsaw

Engineering Tomorrow talks

#ETtalks Insights are part of the global platform and series of events and interviews Engineering Tomorrow talks, created to activate innovative thinking and solutions around climate and energy. #ETtalks Insights focus on the transformation potential of a specific industry, by bringing together top speakers and key decision makers, at some of the world’s leading trade fairs and innovation forums.

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