TECHNOLOGY IN AGRICULTURE
Mapping internationally the AgTech adoption curve
We can define AgTech as individual technologies or a combination of technologies related to farm equipment, weather, seed optimization, fertilizer and crop inputs, irrigation, remote sensing (including drones), farm management, and agricultural big data. Technology has always been part of agriculture, but the current pace of technological transformation is unprecedented and presents unique challenges and opportunities for the sector.
The University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, UTAD, encompasses several initiatives in Agricultural Technology (AgTech) and is interested in a leading role that can benefit Portuguese farmers and companies. UTAD has invited us to elaborate on a comprehensive report demonstrating the benefits of technology adoption in some agricultural businesses: livestock sheep and goats, sweet cherries, vineyards, cheese factories, fruit warehouses, and wines.
We will identify where technologies are in terms of their maturity levels and suggest new technologies that are emerging internationally. We’ll characterize the more mature technology, seeing farmer adoption and some less mature technology that has yet to experience significant adoption. We will, therefore, remind everyone that some of these technologies have a little bit further to go before they get to a level where they see wider adoption.
By mapping the tech innovations in several international examples, we will show the relevant technologies for regional agroindustry and agro-food clusters. Indeed, they are keen to know the best adoption curve. This report aims to mobilize and support agribusiness entrepreneurs to incorporate technology into their business models to increase the competitiveness of their companies.
AgTech will soon get to the plateau of productivity, where these technologies will help farmers make better decisions, optimize profitability, and facilitate sustainability throughout the industry.
Client: UTAD, the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro
University; Non-Business Entities in the R&I System (ENESII)
