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🌿intro to environmental science review

Smart farming

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Smart farming refers to the use of advanced technologies such as IoT, sensors, drones, and data analytics to optimize agricultural practices. By integrating these tools, farmers can improve crop yields, reduce waste, and promote sustainable farming practices, aligning with eco-innovation and clean technologies that aim to minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Smart farming can lead to a significant reduction in water usage by using precision irrigation systems that apply water only when and where it's needed.
  2. The integration of drones in smart farming allows farmers to monitor crop health over large areas quickly and efficiently, enabling timely interventions.
  3. Data analytics in smart farming provides insights into soil health, pest populations, and crop performance, allowing for more informed decision-making.
  4. Smart farming technologies can enhance biodiversity by enabling better management of crop rotations and integrated pest management strategies.
  5. The adoption of smart farming practices is linked to increased profitability for farmers due to optimized resource use and improved yield quality.

Review Questions

  • How does smart farming incorporate technology to enhance agricultural efficiency?
    • Smart farming utilizes various technologies such as IoT devices, sensors, and drones to gather data about crops, soil conditions, and weather patterns. By analyzing this data, farmers can make informed decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and pest control. This technological integration leads to improved resource management, higher yields, and reduced environmental impact.
  • Discuss the role of precision agriculture within the concept of smart farming and its impact on sustainability.
    • Precision agriculture is a critical component of smart farming that focuses on using technology to monitor and manage field variability. By applying resources such as water and fertilizers more accurately based on real-time data, precision agriculture reduces waste and minimizes the environmental footprint. This not only supports sustainable practices but also enhances the overall productivity of farms.
  • Evaluate the potential long-term impacts of widespread adoption of smart farming techniques on global food security.
    • The widespread adoption of smart farming techniques has the potential to significantly enhance global food security by improving crop yields and reducing losses due to pests or environmental stressors. By optimizing resource use through precision agriculture and technology-driven solutions, farmers can produce more food with less environmental impact. This shift could help address challenges such as climate change and population growth by ensuring a reliable food supply while maintaining ecological balance.