b'Ag at a Climate Crossroads: COP28 SHAWN BROOKand the Biostimulant Solution PRESIDENT, SEED WORLD GROUPsbrook@seedworldgroup.comTHE 2023 UNITED NATIONSClimateibility transcends our ownseedworldgroup.com@SeedWorldGroupChange Conference (COP28),technologies. Our strategic partner a pivotal gathering dedicated toin Brazil, Koppert do Brasil, addressing climate change, tookspecializes in biocontrol solutions place last month in Dubai.that employ fungi and bacteria One message was clear at thisto combat plant diseases. TheNavigating Trade Shows: important gathering of policymak- amalgamation of our technolo-ers: the world needs critical playersgies yields a synergistic effect. ByMaximizing Your Experiencein both the public and privatebolstering a plants natural health, sector to help address the multifac- we amplify its inherent defenses,I RECENTLY RETURNEDfrom a successful trip to the eted challenges posed by climateenabling biocontrol technology toEuroseeds Congress on the picturesque island of change.function more effectively.Malta. Every time I return from an event, I meet with From an agricultural perspec- It is akin to starting off with amy team and evaluate our preparations, execution tive, two critical areas demand ourrobust, healthy crop rather thanand follow-ups and look for ways to make the whole attention. attempting to protect a distressedexperience more seamless.Soil health: This stands as theone, a concept validated by dataTrade shows are bustling hubs of opportunity, cornerstone of crop agriculture andsupporting this one-plus-one- and although they only last a few days, preparation carbon cycling, playing a pivotalequals-three approach. starts weeks to months in advance. Over the years role in carbon sequestration. ThisConnecting all these ele- Ive learned you can make the most of these events process involves storing carbon inments to global initiatives such asby effectively preparing, actively engaging during the the soil, primarily through plantCOP28 is paramount. Acadiansshow, and implementing strategic follow-up afterward.biomass. However, it is essentialproducts align with these endeav- Setting clear objectives and creating a well-that the soil remains vibrant forours. Incentives for adoptingthought-out plan before the trade show is crucial. this cycle to function effectively.sustainable agricultural practicesStart by familiarizing yourself with meeting locations Unfortunately, current practicesare imperative, and we must deviseavailable at the venue, the exhibitor list and sched-are causing accelerated soil erosion,means to gauge and reward theule. Identify the organizations that align with your imperiling the future of arablelong-term benefits of soil health.business goals and reach out in advance to schedule land. Acadians seaweed extract- The full impact of enhancedmeetings in their calendars. Prioritize your time and based tools help remedy this. soil health may take several yearsresources wisely to ensure that you make the most ofAbiotic Stress: This is respon- to manifest. As a company, weyour visit.sible for a substantial 70% of croplead by example, showcasing theNetworking is a fundamental aspect of trade losses, poses a significant challengeadvantages we bring to sustainableshows. Dont just collect business cards aimlessly. that we are determined to address.agriculture. While the journeyInstead, engage in meaningful conversations, ask Biostimulants like Acadians tech- may be arduous and complex, it isquestions, listen to their pain points, and share nology stimulate a physiologicalindispensable for the future of ourinsights and experiences on these topics. Building response in plants to switch on theplanet. purposeful connections can open doors. natural defense to stress, includingEvent strategy doesnt end with the event. After an increase in root biomass, whichthe trade show has concluded, its essential to follow fosters greater soil carbon contentup promptly and with care. Send personalized follow-and a more productive microbi- up emails, connect on professional platforms like ome. LinkedIn, and schedule meetings to maintain and Our dedication to compat- strengthen the relationships youve established. This step is crucial for turning initial interactions into valuable, ongoing partnerships.Attending tradeshows in todays climate can use JAMES MAUDE many resources, so it is increasingly crucial to use them effectively. This requires careful planning, pur-SENIOR VP PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT,poseful engagement and precise follow-up. Investing ACADIAN PLANT HEALTH in a complete event strategy will help you maximize acadianplanthealth.com the benefits of your visit and ensure that you leave@acadianplanthealth the event with valuable connections, knowledge and jmaude@acadian.ca opportunities for your business.16GERMINATION.CAJANUARY 2024'