Maintaining a uniformly favorable environment for plants in the agriculture sector is a vital requirement. However, due to the frequent emergence of invasive species, ensuring that cultivated plants receive the required amount of resources is exceptionally complicated (Fleming et al, 2017). Moreover, invasive species often pose a massive threat to eh very existence of crops (Thorlakson et al., 2018). Therefore, a strategy aimed at removing invasive species from the target agricultural setting is needed. Developing the framework involving a quick identification of an invasive species and a prompt response to it is expected to allow resolving the problem of invasive species in agriculture.
Statement of Problem
Having been transferred to the global level, the agriculture industry has become open to multiple threats. The problem of invasive species is one of the major concerns presently. By definition, invasive species are “alien species that, when introduced, become established and harm human and environmental values” (Fleming et al, 2017, p. 524). Lately, the effects of invasive species on agriculture and, therefore, the opportunities faced by SMEs in the agriculture sector, have been devastating, partially, due to the use of GMO products (Thorlakson et al., 2018). Therefore, a solution to the current crisis needs to be proposed.
Proposed Solution
In order to manage the current increase in the detrimental effects of invasive species on agriculture and, particularly, the performance of SMEs, one should consider introducing a better system for detecting the presence of a threat. Specifically, the tool in question will have to be based not only on the system allowing the prompt identification of invasive species in the target setting, but also a framework for effective communication. By introducing an approach rooted in the use of innovative technology to amplify the efficacy of threat identification and interdisciplinary cooperation, thus, improving communication quality, one will be able to address the problem of invasive species as the key factor hindering the performance of businesses in the agricultural industry.
Methods
To conduct the study in question, the mixed method research will be used as the principal methodological tool. Namely, apart from the quantitative assessment of the efficacy of the proposed solution, qualitative data concerning the usability of the proposed tools will have to be obtained from research participants. Additionally, given the need to observe the research results for an extended amount of time, the application of the longitudinal study design will have to be considered. Additionally, the study will incorporate information from secondary sources on the subject matter, including academic peer-reviewed articles and government-issued reports on the problem of invasive species and their effects on agriculture and companies operating in the industry.
Scope
The study will seek to adders the areas of inquiry such as business and economy, leadership and management, and environmentalism.
My Qualifications
Having an academic background in Natural Sciences and experience in business and management, I am fairly qualified to address the issue at hand. Specifically, my current qualifications will allow me to perform a study assessing the effects of the proposed intervention on the business performance of companies in the agricultural industry.
Conclusion
The problem of invasive species in agriculture has gained major significance for multiple companies working in the specified area, which is why introducing a tool for monitoring the presence and impact of invasive species is vital. By conducting a study that assesses the impact of the proposed tool on the management of the invasive species’ effects, one will be able to introduce an improvement. As a result, SMEs will have a chance of succeeding in the agricultural industry.
References
Fleming, P. J., Ballard, G., Reid, N. C., & Tracey, J. P. (2017). Invasive species and their impacts on agri-ecosystems: issues and solutions for restoring ecosystem processes. The Rangeland Journal, 39(6), 523-535. Web.
Thorlakson, T., Hainmueller, J., & Lambin, E. F. (2018). Improving environmental practices in agricultural supply chains: The role of company-led standards. Global Environmental Change, 48, 32-42. Web.