Revitalising the Earth: harnessing technology for land regeneration
Summary
Farmers are integrating satellite imagery, drones, soil sensors, robotics, and data analytics supported by artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) into regenerative or ‘smart’ agricultural practices. Encompassing a wide range of tools that leverage the power of the latest and greatest technology, smart agriculture is revolutionising the way we assess and improve our land use, leading to more sustainable and efficient farming practices. (Source: Ipman65/stock.adobe.com) As critical electronics components within these solutions, like microcontrollers and wireless and RF modules, continue to evolve and innovate, the applications and efficiency of the automations will increase, while the cost of deployment can be reduced. At the ground level, solutions like the one in Edge Impulses case study not only allow the controlled delivery of resources such as water and fertilisers but also provide an intricate feedback mechanism within a larger regeneration project. Furthermore, as the equipment remains in place, it can be used to further drive water, pesticide, and fertiliser delivery, while continuously adapting to changes in the land and weather conditions, helping us to meet future food demands in a more efficient manner.