Advanced technology is the key to the future of agriculture as farmers strive to feed the world with limited natural resources. The integration of innovations in agriculture is indeed necessary.
Today, there is a new frontier for science and innovation in agriculture. There are many ways to grow food and fiber. There is so much to learn about the science of growing crops. Modern farming is full of opportunities for agricultural partnerships with scientists in fields that range from biology to robotics.
Recently, most of the investment has been directed toward ag-tech startups and disruptive market newcomers. However, in many ways, priorities remain the same as ever: innovation in resource use, especially in terms of land and water (and also energy), to boost efficiency and yields.
Soil Data Analysis
For traditional farming models, perhaps the primary determinant of supply capacity is simply the availability and suitability of the land. However, each idea having potential, must be built on available data. That data is then mapped to tell the story of a region.
Hydroponics
As the name suggests, hydroponics is a growing method that uses mineral-enriched water. Aquaponics takes further steps, bringing fish and plant farming in one recirculating system. The fish provided most of the plant nutrition by way of aquaculture effluent. In turn, fish waste metabolites are removed by nitrification and direct uptake by plants, with the suitably treated water then flowing back to the fish.
Freshwater Generation
Other major modern issues in agriculture are increasing water efficiency in farming and food production. Whether for traditional rural irrigation, arid regions, or urban farms, this represents a key metric in the face of global population growth and climate change.
Drones in Field
In the media, drones have mostly been associated with the military and spying, plus the odd pizza delivery publicity stunt, but they could become one of the most useful innovations in agriculture if used wisely.