Keynote | Green Efficiency in Agriculture

German agriculture stands for efficiency and sustainable management – significantly supported by digital technologies. Topics such as crop rotation, smart farming, and precision farming play a central role in this. In comparison, Australian agriculture is characterised by large-scale farm structures that require specific management approaches. Interestingly, agricultural businesses in eastern Germany and Eastern Europe show structural similarities to conditions in Australia.

This keynote will be divided into two parts.

Konrad Harbort:

Konrad Harbort, an experienced manager of a 5,000-hectare farm and consultant for digitalization in agriculture, will highlight the similarities and differences between these production systems in his keynote speech. Using practical examples, he will show how digital solutions can contribute to increased efficiency and sustainability – both in the European and Australian contexts.

Erik Guttulsröd:

European agriculture is facing profound change. Sustainability reporting, stricter regulations on the use of inputs, and rising quality requirements are posing major challenges for agricultural businesses. This transformation process requires new strategies, innovative technologies, and a rethink of management approaches. The German Agricultural Society (DLG) is supporting this change as the industry's leading think tank. Since 1885, it has been operating as a non-profit professional organization with over 31,000 members at the interface between science and practice – independently and politically neutral. Its focus is on sustainable production increases, the development of evaluation standards, and providing technical guidance at leading international trade fairs such as AGRITECHNICA. In his speech, Erik Guttulsröd will provide an overview of the key trends in Europe and highlight the implications for the Australian agricultural sector. The focus will be on innovative technology solutions and forward-looking management approaches that are also relevant for large-scale farms in Australia.

Panel | Collaborating across borders for climate resilience and food security  

This panel discussion will begin with an inspiring story from Stephen Todd, founder of Volt Farmer. The Australia-Zambia Collaborative Clime Smart Farm Project is one of enterprise and ingenuity as two groups come together to pioneer a new generation of Agri-solar and regenerative farming projects some might consider a living blueprint for the future of sustainable agriculture. By integrating advanced solar energy systems, regenerative land management, and cutting-edge farm enterprise technology, these projects are transforming rural communities. The initiative empowers local entrepreneurs, improves food security, and restores ecosystems—all while fostering economic opportunity and climate resilience.

This story is indicative of a wider opportunity warrant great discussion. The spirit of openness and meaningful collaboration goes beyond the feel-good factor. The latest artificial intelligence tools and digital platforms can be harnessed to optimise productivity, monitor ecosystem health, and support data-driven decision-making. 

Join this panel for lively conversation on:

• Real-world examples of cross border partnerships driving enterprise, education, and environmental stewardship.
• Collaborating to achieve reliable clean energy, climate-smart irrigation, and regenerative land use.
• The role AI and digital tools can play in maximising yields, protecting natural resources, and supporting community-led innovation.

About Erik

Erik is the Deputy Managing Director & Head of Farm Management and Sustainability - DLG Competence Center Agriculture.
Areas of Expertise

• Sustainability & ESG in agriculture 
• Green efficiency & smart farming