More farmers have started adopting technological advancements that range from forecasting models and sensors to robotics and automation. But how good or efficient is technology in agricultural management? And how bad can it be, as well? We point out the pros and cons of technology in agriculture.
Pros:
Less human resources needed – Machines and automation work consistently faster and more efficiently than humans, and they can even work 24/7 without the need to take a break or time off. This leads to increased productivity on farms and reduced labor costs.
More efficient and economical use of resources – Another advantage of technology in agriculture is its potential to enhance sustainability. For instance, precision agrotechnology run by drones and GPS can help farmers use their resources, like water, fertilizers, and pesticides, more economically and efficiently. As a result, there will be less waste of resources and environmental impact of farming practices.
Reduced impact on the environment and natural ecosystems – Technology and automation also help reduce the use of harmful fertilizers and pesticides since they can apply these products with precision.
Less runoff of chemicals into bodies of water – As technology is able to apply pesticides and fertilizers precisely, efficiently, and economically, there will be less chemical runoff into the rivers and groundwater.
High crop productivity – The use of digital and analytic tools results in the improvement of crop yields, therefore reducing cost operations and increasing the farmers’ profits.
Cons:
High cost of maintenance – Technology can be quite costly to implement and maintain. For instance, the machinery needed to farm and harvest is expensive and can be difficult to maintain. Also, most farming equipment takes up a lot of space and can be challenging to transport and store.
Uneducated farmers – Most farmers are illiterate, so they may have a hard time embracing technology and using modern machines. Also, it can take time for technology to process the information. Farmers are so busy tending to and harvesting their crops that they may not have the time or the willingness to process data.
Environmental impact – When people rely too much on machines, they tend to be overused. Most machines are dependent on power and fuel. Overusing these machines can result in negative environmental consequences such as air and water pollution and soil degradation.
Unemployment – As technology and automation bring significant savings on labor and improve the production of crop yields, it can lead to job losses in the farming community. But it’s not always the case, as some forms of technology may open new job opportunities for other people.
Technology and automation will always be a double-edged sword. They bring many benefits but can also lead to some drawbacks. But despite the concerns, it is clear that technology and automation hold a promising future in the farming and agriculture sector. Farmers should recognize the potential but at the same time, carefully consider the risks that come with technology and automation. By weighing the pros and cons, farmers will be able to make more informed decisions about whether they should integrate technology and automation into their operations.
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