Today we welcome the esteemed Nicholas Brozovic, Director of Policy at the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute. Our host Adrian delves into the critical work of the Daugherty Institute, focusing on research, policy development, communication, and education to address the complex challenges surrounding water use and food security. With a growing global population and climate change intensifying weather extremes, access to water for irrigation becomes pivotal for maintaining food security.
Nicholas shares practical examples of the Institute's work, from supporting smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa to collaborating with ag-tech startups in the United States. The Institute's interdisciplinary approach, combining engineers, agronomists, economists, political scientists, journalists, and artists, reflects the complexity of water and food issues.
The conversation explores the challenges of ag-tech adoption, validating new technologies to meet farmers' needs, and managing risk exposure. Nicholas highlights the significance of behavioral science in promoting sustainable practices and the delicate balance between education and regulation to drive positive change in water management.
The episode also sheds light on California's water dilemma, where stringent policies have sparked innovation to optimize water usage and prioritize the most productive applications.
As we unravel the critical role of technology in managing water resources, Nick's insights leave us inspired and eager to embrace innovative solutions for a more sustainable agricultural future. Join us
SECRETARY GENERAL, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION IRRIGANTS D’EUROPE