Blockchain and agriculture may seem like a weird bed effect, but as Yana Leonova explains in episode 19 of the “Clear Crypto Podcast”, pairing has the potential to deal with some of the most pressing challenges of humanity – from food waste to land disputes.
Blockchain in action
“Agriculture can be a great example of how blockchain can benefit the planet, sustainability and each of us,” Leonova said.
Her PhD in agricultural economics and her work in Dubai’s innovation ecosystem puts her at the intersection of blockchain and real-world impacts.
One of the most tangible use cases? Supply chain transparency. Projects such as IBM Food Trust and WWF’s OpenSC are already tracking products such as seafood and palm oil OnChain.
In the UAE, Leonova points to the Farm-to-Section Initiative, which estimates reduces $6 billion in food waste by increasing visibility in real time and matching supply to demand. She explained:
“Blockchain provides you with real-time images…data is key today.”
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This technology involves not only logistics improvements; it is also about empowering smallholder farmers. “The idea is that we can use tokens and smart contracts … there is no middleman, no judgment,” Leonova said.
“If a farmer provides food, he will be paid automatically and fairly.”
Blockchain philosophy
The conversation also delves into a more philosophical aspect of the blockchain role: justice.
Leonova outlines how an unchanging ledger can protect land ownership, especially after the disaster that caused paper records.
“No one can impose their rights on your property. You can’t bribe blockchain.”
Co-hosts Nathan Jeffay and Gareth Jenkinson highlight how these examples eliminate the notion that blockchain is only related to guessing. “It’s not about remote encryption or currency transactions,” Nathan said. “It’s about solving real-world problems.”
Despite the skepticism, Leonova remains hopeful for adoption.
“It takes time to identify and adapt to blockchain…but once trust is established, it can play a huge role for humanity.”
To hear the full conversation about the Clear Encrypted Podcast, listen to the full episodes on Cointelegraph’s Podcast Page,,,,, Apple Podcast or Spotify. And, don’t forget to check out Cointelegraph’s other lineups!
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