In a groundbreaking initiative, M&S is harnessing the power of drones and robot tractors to cultivate parsnips more sustainably.
- This trial marks M&S as the first UK retailer to explore an ‘autonomous field’ farming approach.
- Drones and robots collaboratively enhance both the quality and quantity of parsnip yields.
- The initiative is a strategic move to reduce carbon emissions by utilizing less diesel-dependent technology.
- M&S’s sustainability program, Plan A, supports this project aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
In a significant move towards sustainable agriculture, M&S is implementing drones and robot tractors to manage parsnip production. This innovative approach positions M&S as the first in the UK retail sector to experiment with an ‘autonomous field’ system, aiming to improve crop quality while curtailing carbon emissions. Initiated in March in Yorkshire, the project is a collaboration with Huntapac, a supplier of root vegetables.
The technology involves two robots dedicated to bed forming, weeding, and planting, alongside two drone varieties tasked with monitoring and maintaining crop health. By keeping carbon sequestered in the soil and using green fertilizers, this method significantly lessens the reliance on diesel compared to traditional tractors.
More than just reducing carbon emissions, the autonomous farming techniques being trialed by M&S are expected to enhance both the quality and volume of the parsnip harvests. This aligns with the broader goals of the company’s sustainability plan, known as Plan A, which advocates for progressive agricultural innovations.
The first batch of these autonomously cultivated parsnips is anticipated to reach M&S stores by November. This venture signifies the initial funded project under the Plan A accelerator, reflecting the retailer’s commitment to swift action towards net-zero targets through innovative projects.
According to Andrew Clappen, M&S Food’s technical director, agriculture significantly contributes to the company’s emissions. Therefore, exploring eco-friendlier farming practices is essential. He stated, ‘Trialling new ways to support our Plan A roadmap to net zero is an important step on the journey and this project has helped deliver more parsnips at M&S quality, a carbon reduction, and brings together new technologies which if adopted more widely would create more highly skilled jobs and attract new talent into the sector.’
M&S is at the forefront of integrating advanced technology into sustainable agriculture, setting a precedent for the retail industry.
