Various technologies have revolutionized businesses, especially when it comes to agriculture. Agriculture technology or Agri-tech makes farming more productive, efficient, profitable and sustainable. The United States Department of Agriculture recognizes the importance of these technologies and cites benefits including higher crop productivity, safer growing conditions, reduced environmental impact and decreased use of inputs. Agriculture experts are instrumental in bringing innovative technologies to farms across the world. While there are many agri-tech innovations, let’s discuss some of the technologies that are trending in 2024.
Biologicals
In recent years, biologicals have made a huge impact on the agri-tech market. Markets and Markets reports that the biologicals market is expected to reach 25.6 billion by 2027, and farmers are looking to these products to save money on other inputs and increase yields. Biologicals are usually classified as biostimulants, biopesticides and biofertilizer. While biologicals can be difficult to define, simply stated, they are naturally derived products that contribute positively to crops by improving soil quality and overall health. These biological products do this by stimulating, enhancing, feeding and shifting the microbiome. Additionally, they can leverage the microbiome to provide supplemental nitrogen or improve phosphate availability. Besides enhancing soil health, biologicals can also positively contribute to the environment through carbon sequestration, improve drought and heat tolerance, as well as improve food nutritional quality.
Artificial Intelligence
Experts expect artificial intelligence (AI) technology in agriculture to increase as more possibilities are explored. Market and Markets reports that the AI market is expected to reach 4.7 billion by 2028, which equates to a 23.1% Compound Annual Growth rate from 2023 to 2028. Forbes defines AI as “the systematic collection of data, pertinent use of analytics ranging from simple descriptive summaries to deep learning algorithms, and advanced technologies such as computer vision, the internet of things and geospatial analytics.” Examples of AI in agriculture include automated weed control systems, livestock health monitoring, predictive analysis for crop yield and precise irrigation. These technologies use sensors, drones, GPS, automated machines and other innovations to make on farm operations efficient. This in turn increases productivity and sustainability for farmers.
Precision Farming
Precision agriculture involves making agriculture more accurate and controlled when growing crops and raising livestock. This looks like precise application of inputs rather than uniform applications like variable rate technologies that are sensor or GPS based. GPS soil sampling is another precision agriculture method where farmers gather information about their crops that helps them make informed decisions. Computer based applications such as field maps, crop scouting and yield maps are also used. These technologies usually involve elements of AI. With the incorporation of AI, precision agriculture is becoming even more precise and beneficial to farmers.
Final Thoughts
Agri-tech innovations such as biologicals, artificial intelligence and precision agriculture are making huge impacts on the productivity on farms across the world. These technologies along with many other agri-tech innovations are necessary to improve operations and produce enough food to feed the growing population. Experts recognize that adopting new technologies can be challenging for farmers, especially with the high investment cost. Farmers need to know what the return on investment will be and exactly how these technologies will help their operations. With collaboration from innovators, experts and farmers, agri-tech innovations can foster a more productive and sustainable future.
