Technology is making a strong impact on the agricultural sector, driven by two key motivations.
Firstly, to increase productivity to meet the growing global demand for food. The challenge is significant: according to the latest United Nations projection, the global population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, potentially peaking at 10.4 billion by 2080.
Secondly, to promote more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices to help a planet increasingly suffering from pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
This dual challenge has made the modernisation of agriculture a priority for nations worldwide. According to the "Markets of Tomorrow" report by the World Economic Forum, based on 12,000 surveys of global executives, agricultural technology is considered the most strategically important technology for the coming years.
Agriculture 4.0
Precision agriculture is one of the innovations that technology has brought to the field. Through systems based on artificial intelligence, big data, and machine learning, utilising GPS technology and sensors, farmers can predict their crop yields, improve planting, irrigation, and harvesting processes, and optimise the use of water, fertilisers, and pesticides.
This maximises crop yields, reduces costs, and decreases the need for excessive chemical use.
Robotic technology has reached a high level of development in agriculture. Drones equipped with advanced imaging technology monitor crop health, detect pests, and assess the overall condition of fields. Then, artificial intelligence algorithms analyse the information sent by the drones, providing valuable insights to agricultural companies and producers for ongoing productive processes.
Another advancement is route optimisation: through advanced algorithms and big data, agricultural organisations can create more efficient transport routes.
Technology is not only transforming agricultural practices but also the traceability and marketing of products. With blockchain systems and smart labels, consumers can access detailed information about the origin, production process, and quality of the food they consume, promoting transparency and trust in the supply chain.
Promoting Sustainability
The integration of advanced technologies is helping farmers reduce their ecological impact and better care for the planet, paving the way for a greener future.
With Internet of Things devices, for example, it is possible to collect data on soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels, which is then analysed using big data. This information allows farmers to make informed decisions about irrigation, fertilisation, and harvesting, optimising yields and conserving natural resources.
Precision agriculture, as mentioned earlier, also positively impacts the pursuit of sustainability by applying water, fertilisers, and pesticides precisely and only when necessary. As a result, resource waste is minimised, and soil and water pollution is reduced.
The use of renewable energy in agriculture is another significant advancement towards sustainability. Solar panels and wind turbines are becoming increasingly common on farms, providing clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Biotechnology is contributing to the creation of crops more resistant to pests, diseases, and adverse weather conditions. Through genetic engineering and molecular biology techniques, plant varieties are being developed that require fewer pesticides and water, and can thrive in poor or saline-affected soils. This not only improves food security but also reduces the need for chemical inputs and water consumption.
The Key is Innovation
What does an agricultural organisation need to implement these changes? Firstly and most importantly, it needs the conviction that modernisation is the fundamental step towards becoming an intelligent, efficient, and sustainable enterprise.
Secondly, choosing an appropriate technological platform is crucial, one that supports implementation with market knowledge and best practices.
Today, there is a wide range of solutions designed to optimise and digitise agricultural operations. From comprehensive precision agriculture platforms to specialised applications, producers have various options to leverage the benefits of digital transformation.
One of the most comprehensive agribusiness software solutions is offered by SAP. It includes SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition, a ready-to-operate cloud ERP that ensures successful food production management with intelligent practices promoting resilience, efficiency, and sustainability.
It also offers solutions like SAP Sustainability Control Tower, which helps companies improve their sustainability performance, and SAP Intelligent Agriculture, which enables agricultural companies to optimise their operations.
The Future is Now
As the global population continues to grow and climate challenges intensify, adopting these technologies is not just an option for agricultural companies but an urgent necessity.
The future of agriculture is marked by the collaboration between science and nature, establishing a path towards a smarter and more sustainable ecosystem. The digital transformation of agriculture is not only a promise of greater productivity and efficiency but also a tangible hope for a future where agriculture and the environment coexist harmoniously, ensuring that future generations inherit a healthy and prosperous planet.
About United VARs
United VARs is a global alliance of SAP implementation partners and solution providers for the mid-market. With over 70 members in 100 countries, the alliance serves all types of SAP rollouts and integrations across the world. The organization provides businesses with local expertise ‘on the ground’ charged at local rates. All United VARs members work together as one team to provide a more personalized service than other global systems integrators can, and one that is better suited to mid-market budgets.
stronger than one