Column: Blockchain connects

This column, written by Sandra van den Poll, partnership manager at JADS, was published before in the Food+Agribusiness magazine.

“We can be making progress on sustainability, but I am dependent on what happens in the chain before or after me.” This is a common expression in my conversations with entrepreneurs about how data-driven work can also contribute to achieving sustainability goals. My very first advice is always to keep it small and start with your own “circle of influence,” but of course it is a very valid point.

One topic that often comes up when sharing data in the value chain is the application of blockchain. Each “block” contains a set of data or transactions. Once a block is full, it is chained to the previous block. Because this chain is constantly growing and any change in one block affects all subsequent blocks, it is virtually impossible to change data after the fact. A bit like how a production chain works, too. Everything is dependent on everything else.

The advantage of this decentralized way of data integration is that it provides transparency. Every step in the chain is recorded, so we know exactly where our food comes from, how it was produced and what conditions it has undergone. In addition, each “author” retains ownership of their data, but the unbreakable nature of blockchain makes it nearly impossible to tamper with data. This can provide greater trust and security to share data.

Scientifically, applying blockchain is very interesting. But implementing it in practice takes quite a bit of effort, especially when it comes to that level of trust. What really is the added value for my company, and is it really secure? Blockchain, unlike Open AI, still remains quite far from the reality of the average entrepreneur. Therefore, it is important to gain proper knowledge and start small with simple and understandable solutions for sharing data. First within your own organization and then perhaps with a number of chain partners. This creates more trust in data-driven work in one’s own company, but also in the secure sharing of data among themselves. Without this foundation of security and trust, the application of blockchain is still in the future.