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The latest advances in the so-called Digital Revolution have led to a series of new paradigms destined to radically change the way of seeing agricultural work. For some time now, the need to adopt new production models that allow the use of specialized software to achieve more efficient and ecological agriculture has become apparent. These new precepts of the so-called precision agriculture can affect the entire agricultural sector, from how work is proposed on a farm to manufacturing machinery or the production and distribution of agricultural spare parts.
How does precision agriculture work?
The new precision agriculture proposes more efficient resource management, allowing one to make better decisions. The main idea is based on a crop planning model where all the factors affecting the farm are taken into account. To do this, the farmer relies on precise measurement instruments such as sensors, drones or satellite navigators that help him collect specific data to analyze later and act accordingly. New technologies are thus involved in the entire production cycle, which ranges from soil preparation and sowing to cropping management and harvesting. The saving in time,
Some of the most common computer systems in precision agriculture are crop and yield monitors. Automatic pilots, crop mapping systems, direct communication elements between the tractor and implements, humidity probes or salinity meters. They all contribute to facilitating agricultural work and a better understanding of the farm’s soil. To be able to make better decisions and even predict the behavior of the harvest. The result of all this is, ultimately, more production at a lower cost.
Towards a more sustainable agriculture
In addition to the obvious economic advantages of precision agriculture. Cost reduction aimed at optimizing agricultural work is also presented as the pillar of more sustainable activity. Better precision in sowing, less water loss. Reduction of CO2 emissions or greater control of the use of chemical products is some of the objectives. Achievable through the application of new technologies in agriculture. This treatment of crops in a more selective way supposes a considerable. The environmental impact of agricultural holdings is reduced in the medium and long term.
Given all this data, it is not surprising that. The European Union is trying to seize all the opportunities for precision agriculture by supporting numerous research and development initiatives. Several programs, such as FP7 or Horizon 2020, have already echoed all proposals. Related to this new and exciting paradigm of agricultural efficiency.
Precision agriculture is a reality that should be considered. Both for its boost to local economies and for its apparent environmental benefits.
