Blockchain-Enhanced Traceability Framework for Smart Farming with Integrated Ontology-Based Data Standardization

This paper introduces a new conceptual framework to enhance crop traceability within smart farming environments. The framework merges blockchain technology with ontology-based data standardization to address persistent challenges in traditional traceability systems, such as data fragmentation and inconsistencies. The primary goal is establishing a transparent, reliable, and efficient traceability process from farm to table. The methodology employed in this research follows the Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM), involving iterative cycles of designing, building, and evaluating the proposed framework to ensure its effectiveness in real-world applications. The framework offers a promising solution to improve food safety, quality, regulatory compliance, and data-driven agricultural decision-making by capitalizing on blockchain's immutable and decentralized attributes and leveraging standardized data formats facilitated by ontologies. The proposed framework comprises three key components: ontology development, system integration, and blockchain implementation. Ontology development addresses data fragmentation and inconsistencies by providing a common language and structure for data exchange. Meanwhile, system integration ensures seamless data exchange among stakeholders, and blockchain implementation secures and verifies traceability records to maintain data integrity and trust. This integrated system is expected to foster trust and collaboration among all participants in the agricultural supply chain, thereby advancing the efficiency and sustainability of smart farming practices. Through continuous refinement and validation, this research aims to significantly contribute to the practical implementation of advanced traceability solutions in the agricultural sector, ensuring that these systems are robust, scalable, and adaptable to various farming contexts.