Agriculture of the future depends on synergy between technologies

Digital agriculture has such enormous potential that it has been compared to the mechanization that occurred at the beginning of the 20th century. In recent years, emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data and artificial intelligence (AI) are driving a transformation in the sector, characterizing the so-called digitalization process of agribusiness.

Today, it is possible to use drone and satellite images to map the production potential and specific needs of each square meter of cropland. Smart sensors can measure variables such as soil moisture, nutrient levels and weather conditions in real time, while machine learning can be used to analyze historical data and predict future agricultural scenarios.

Blockchain technology can be used to track the agricultural supply chain, ensuring transparency and data security. This helps build trust between consumers and producers, as well as facilitating compliance with regulations and quality standards.

5G connectivity and new satellite internet options allow devices to communicate quickly and reliably, even in remote areas. At the same time, big data and artificial intelligence are key to analyzing the vast volumes of data collected by sensors and other sources, helping to predict trends, optimize processes and customize solutions for each producer.

These new technologies are transforming agribusiness in many ways. They increase efficiency, reduce costs, improve sustainability and increase productivity in farmers’ operations, responding to market and societal demands. In addition, they also help address challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity.

However, the challenge lies in integrating technologies so that they can work together and generate real value for farmers and society at the end of the process. This is because digital agriculture technologies often use different standards and protocols, which makes interoperability and information exchange between systems difficult.

Therefore, as important as the development of new technologies is making the technologies that are already available today work in an integrated manner and generate tangible benefits for producers and society.

To follow the path of no return towards digital agriculture, producers need solutions that meet their needs in an integrated manner, to resolve their issues before, during and after planting.

This includes solutions for purchasing seeds and inputs, soil analysis and management, sowing, disease and weed control, harvesting, as well as storage, sale and tracking of final production, with financial and logistical tools. All on the same platform, or on platforms that communicate and have synergy with each other.

The future of digital agriculture is full of opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce costs and promote sustainable practices, and the integration of emerging technologies is essential to transform the sector and meet the challenges of the future. With the synergy between these innovations, the digital agriculture revolution can indeed happen, contributing to the food security of the planet.

*By Almir Araujo (pictured), Director of Digital and New Business Models at BASF Agricultural Solutions in Latin America