In the complex picture of modern agriculture, precision agriculture emerges as a transformative force, weaving technology, data, and sustainable practices. This dynamic approach to farming is not merely a trend. It has been deeply changing the agricultural landscape for years, fostering efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.
At its core, precision agriculture is about using technology to optimise every aspect of the farming process. According to Science Direct, ‘precision agriculture supports farm management based on the application of information technologies to process and analyse multisensory data’. McCormick defines precision farming as ‘a series of strategies and tools that allow farmers to optimise and increase soil quality and productivity putting in place a series of targeted key interventions.’
For a long time, precision agriculture was associated with tractors or big machines controlled by satellites, or drones surveying fields and transmitting data through an app. It now covers more areas of farm management, including crop rotation, water management, fertilizers input control, and others. It could be integrated with simple and cost-effective technology such as sensors to support data collection and analysis and produce cost-effective benefits.
Picture: Farmer Charlie prototype on horticulture crops
According to recent studies, the global precision agriculture market size is expected to grow from USD 9.7 billion in 2023 to USD 21.9 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 10.7%. The main drivers underlying this growth are innovative technologies that could reduce labour expenses, the increased adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and solutions to face the impact of climate change and the imperative to meet growing food demands.
One of the key benefits of precision agriculture lies in the optimisation of resource. By leveraging data from sensors, satellites, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), farmers can precisely tailor inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides. This not only minimises waste but also enhances crop yields, a crucial aspect to consider as we strive to feed a burgeoning global population.
Water management is one of the most crucial features allowed by efficient precision agriculture. Approximately 70% of the world’s freshwater is used for agriculture, and with water scarcity on the rise, the need for targeted irrigation is more critical than ever. Precision agriculture technologies, including soil moisture sensors and automated irrigation systems, enable farmers to distribute water precisely where and when it is needed, reducing its use and any environmental impact.
Based on our platform, we can understand how sensor-based technologies improve water management. Automatic irrigation is usually applied at regular times and days, which are modified according to the season and official weather forecast. However, this may prove pointless when natural precipitations (predicted or not) occur, providing the soil with sufficient irrigation. Farmer Charlie’s sensors collect field information about the soil moisture, humidity, and pH. Supported by VSAT information on weather forecast and software-based predictions, the exact amount and frequency of water needed to grow specific crops and cultivated areas can be estimated. Hence, farmers and gardeners can optimise water consumption, costs, and productivity. This strategy is also essential for avoiding water waste. We can use the same approach to assess the correct input of fertilisers.
The integration of precision agriculture with satellite imagery provides a powerful tool for monitoring and managing crop health in many ways. Early detection of pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies allows for targeted interventions, reducing reliance on chemical inputs and fostering a more environmentally friendly approach to crop protection. Studies suggest that precision agriculture results in up to 30% reduction in pesticide use, demonstrating its potential for eco-friendly farming.
The economic benefits of precision agriculture are equally compelling. Economic growth coupled with sustainable farming practices, creates a win-win scenario for both farmers and the environment.
Precision agriculture emerges as an important driver of resilience within the agricultural sector. The ability to exploit real-time data to enhance farming practices is a real aid to mitigating the impacts of climate variability, contributing in the long term to ensure food security and sustainable development.
If you are interested in Farmer Charlie solution, simply email us – community@farmer-charlie.com.
-Marina Novokhatska
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