Global Forum on Food Security and Nutrition (FSN Forum)

This member contributed to:

• 

  Contribute to shaping the design of the Agrifood System Technologies & Innovations Outlook (ATIO) Knowledge Base

  Consultation

  27.12.2024 - 10.02.2025
  • 

    Ms. Sarah Stanley

    TKM INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, KOLLAM, KERALA

    India

    21.01.2025

    I here by attach my contribution to the consultation on Contribute to shaping the design of the Agrifood System Technologies & Innovations Outlook (ATIO) Knowledge Base
     

    Importance of Featuring Grassroots Innovations in the ATIO Knowledge Base

    Grassroots innovations are critical to the ATIO Knowledge Base because they:

    1. Address Local Challenges: These innovations often emerge from local contexts, making them highly adaptable to specific conditions.
    2. Empower Communities: Featuring them validates the contributions of marginalized and local communities, fostering inclusivity.
    3. Scalability and replication: Grassroots solutions well-documented can be adapted or scaled for other regions experiencing similar challenges.
    4. Promote sustainability: These innovations often use indigenous knowledge and sustainable practices which are in line with overall goals for the environment.

    What’s Missing in the Prototype Descriptions of Grassroots Innovations?

    When reviewing records of grassroots innovations, key gaps to address might include:

    1. Local Context and Challenges:

    • What problem does the innovation solve?
    • What are the environmental, social, and economic conditions in the region where it was developed?

    2. Innovator Profiles:

    • Who are the innovators? Highlight their background, such as farmers, artisans, or cooperatives.
    • Stories of resilience and resourcefulness to inspire others.

    3. Implementation Process:

    • How was the innovation developed and implemented? Materials, tools, and techniques used.

    4. Evidence of Effectiveness:

    • Incorporate information on impact, such as yield improvement, cost savings, or reduced environmental footprint.
    • Evidence of validation from local communities or external experts

    5. Scalability and Adaptability:

    • Is it possible to transfer the innovation to other contexts? What adjustments are necessary?
    • Elaborate barriers to scaling and how to address them

    6. Partnerships and Networks:

    • Note collaboration with NGOs, researchers, or government programs
    • Evidence of social networks contributing to the dissemination of the innovation

    7. Sustainability Dimensions:

    • Deal with environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
    • How does the innovation contribute to climate resilience or resource conservation?

    Dimensions to Capture in Grassroots Innovation Records

    1. Technical Details:

    • Materials and techniques used.
    • Design specifications or unique features.

    2. Cultural Relevance:

    1. How does the innovation integrate local knowledge or traditions?

    3. Impact Metrics:

    • Environmental: Resource efficiency, reduction in emissions.
    • Social: Community acceptance, gender inclusivity.
    • Economic: Cost-effectiveness, income generation.

    4. Challenges and Lessons Learned:

    • Obstacles faced during development and deployment.
    • Key takeaways for other innovators.

    Most Useful Features for Grassroots Use/Application

    To ensure the knowledge base serves grassroots users effectively:

    Localized Language and Tools:

    • Provide multilingual descriptions and context-specific guidance.
    • Use accessible formats like videos, infographics, and audio narratives.

    Practical Application Guides:

    • Step-by-step instructions for implementation.
    • Include diagrams, photos, or videos for clarity.

    Resource Requirements:

    • Highlight low-cost alternatives for materials and tools.
    • Provide information on potential funding sources or partnerships.

    Community Training and Engagement:

    • Include modules or links for skill-building.
    • Showcase case studies to inspire adoption.

    Feedback Mechanism:

    • Allow grassroots users to share experiences, improvements, or adaptations.

     

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    See the attachments:

    • Shaping the design of the Agrifood System Technologies & Innovations Outlook (ATIO) Knowledge Base