Top 10 Documentaries on Smart Farming

Description: "The Need to Grow" explores the urgent need for sustainable farming practices to combat global food shortages and environmental degradation. It showcases innovative farming techniques like vertical farming and hydroponics, which are integral to smart agriculture.

Fact: The film was produced by Rosario Dawson and is narrated by her. It also features interviews with experts in sustainable agriculture and soil science.

Description: "Sustainable" delves into the lives of farmers who are implementing sustainable practices to combat the industrial food system's negative impacts. It showcases the use of technology in farming to reduce waste, improve soil health, and promote biodiversity.

Fact: The film was produced by Marty Travis, a farmer himself, who wanted to share the stories of those working towards a more sustainable food system. It has been screened at numerous film festivals and educational institutions.

Description: This documentary tackles the controversial topic of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in farming. It presents a balanced view on how GMOs can be part of smart farming, offering insights into the science behind these technologies and their potential benefits.

Fact: The film was directed by Scott Hamilton Kennedy, who previously won an Academy Award for his documentary "The Garden." It also features Neil deGrasse Tyson discussing the science of GMOs.

Description: This heartwarming documentary follows John and Molly Chester as they transform a barren piece of land into a thriving, biodiverse farm. It's a testament to the power of regenerative agriculture and smart farming practices, showing how technology and nature can work in harmony.

Fact: The film took over 10 years to make, capturing the entire journey from barren land to a flourishing ecosystem. It also features a dog named Todd who plays a pivotal role in the farm's story.

Description: A follow-up to "The Biggest Little Farm," this documentary continues the journey of John and Molly Chester, showing how their farm has evolved with smart farming techniques, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and ecological balance.

Fact: This film was released to celebrate the farm's continued success and to share new insights into sustainable farming practices. It also features the next generation of farmers learning from the Chesters' experience.

Description: This documentary follows young farmers in the U.S. who are adopting smart farming techniques to make agriculture viable and sustainable. It's an inspiring look at the new generation of farmers using technology to revolutionize traditional farming.

Fact: The film was directed by Severine von Tscharner Fleming, who also founded the Greenhorns, a non-profit organization supporting young farmers. It has inspired many to take up farming as a career.

Description: Although a fictional narrative, "Okja" addresses themes of industrial farming versus sustainable practices, making it relevant to the smart farming discussion. It showcases the potential of alternative farming methods to improve animal welfare and food quality.

Fact: Directed by Bong Joon-ho, the film stars Tilda Swinton and Jake Gyllenhaal. It was released on Netflix, sparking debates on the ethics of food production.

Description: This film explores how regenerative agriculture can reverse climate change. It highlights the use of smart farming techniques to restore soil health, sequester carbon, and improve water cycles, making it an essential watch for understanding the impact of modern farming methods.

Fact: The documentary features interviews with experts like Woody Harrelson and Ian Somerhalder, who are passionate about sustainable farming. It also inspired a movement to promote regenerative agriculture globally.

Description: While not exclusively about smart farming, this documentary exposes the industrial food system's flaws and highlights small-scale farmers using sustainable and smart practices to produce healthier, more ethical food.

Fact: The film was directed by Kristin Canty, who became an advocate for raw milk after her son's health improved on a raw milk diet. It has sparked discussions on food policy and consumer rights.

Description: This film investigates the impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on farming, offering insights into how these technologies can be part of smart agriculture. It's a thought-provoking look at the future of food production.

Fact: The documentary was produced by Deborah Koons Garcia, who also directed "The Real Dirt on Farmer John." It has been used in educational settings to discuss biotechnology in agriculture.