Agricultural robots: farming smarter, not harder
AI for Good
The Leading UN Platform on AI – Global Summit 2025: July 8-11 | Geneva, Switzerland
Welcome to the?AI for Good Insider | Summit Dispatch?– your latest AI for Good Global Summit News bringing to you’re the most recent updates on the event!
As the global demand for food continues to rise, innovative solutions are emerging to help optimize operations in agriculture. Enter robots – the new, high-tech workforce in agriculture. These versatile machines can handle a wide range of tasks, from planting and irrigation to pest control and soil analysis. By automating these processes, farmers can reap the benefits of increased productivity, reduced labor costs, and a reduced need for harmful chemicals. And with the added bonus of collecting valuable data to fine-tune crop yields and resource management, it’s clear that the future of farming is all about farming smarter, not harder.
According to research from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the?United Nations (FAO), ?global crop demands are set to increase by 60 per cent by 2050.?AZO Robotics ?proposed that the global agricultural robot market was valued at over $43 billion in 2021. It is estimated that the market will reach a total market value of more than $81 billion by the end of 2028?.
Agricultural robots are revolutionizing the world of farming in unprecedented ways. These versatile machines can operate in a diverse range of environments, from the cozy confines of indoor greenhouses to expansive outdoor fields, adapting seamlessly to various crop types. The increasing adoption of robotics in agriculture is a testament to the transformative power of technology in addressing pressing global challenges.
These technological marvels are playing a significant role in achieving?SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production . By transforming the ways in which planting, irrigation, and harvesting processes are optimized, agricultural robots?according to Root AI ?use less than 90% of water for over 20x the amount per crop per acre. As tireless workers, robots can detect crop diseases early on and even enhance access to food in resource-limited areas. By reducing production costs, they are making food more affordable for consumers, helping with?SDG 2: Zero Hunger.
One such robot, Vision RTK Fusion, is designed to help farmers improve access to food, particularly in areas with limited resources or during periods of drought or famine. Its advanced navigation capabilities, combined with cutting-edge imaging technology, allow it to monitor crop health, identify potential issues, and help farmers take timely actions to prevent crop losses.
Agricultural robots are not only increasing productivity but also contributing to?SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth . Indeed, 50% of labour is on the cost of growing farm, and 55% of farmers are impacted by labour shortage, generating a move of 31% of farmer to less laborious crops?(Ku and Serna) . By reducing labor costs, these machines support farmers’ livelihoods and generate new job opportunities in the field of robotics.
Digital FarmHand and AGRIM-X are prime examples of agriltural robots that use precision farming techniques to optimize crop yields. They are equipped with advanced sensors and algorithms that analyse soil conditions, crop health, and weather patterns, enabling them to make data-driven decisions on planting, irrigation, and fertilization. This approach not only leads to higher yields but also reduces the use of harmful chemicals, helping to conserve natural resources and promote sustainable production patterns.
These eco-friendly machines are also making strides in achieving SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.?The European Commission ?set up new rules to reduce the risk and use of pesticides in the EU that by 2023, 50% of chemical pesticides needs to be reduced. By automating repetitive tasks, agricultural robots enhance productivity, use resources more efficiently, and lower food production costs. Consequently, they promote sustainable agriculture practices and contribute to a greener future.
Furthermore, agricultural robots play a vital role in tackling?SDG 13: Climate Action . These machines help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease the need for fertilizers and pesticides-Precision agriculture, enabled by these robots, promotes more efficient use of resources such as water and energy, thus helping to mitigate climate change effects.
As the agricultural sector embraces the future, robots provide indispensable support for farmers.?Professor Salah Sukkarieh ?of the University of Sydney notes, “This is an industry where robots are a good news story […] They can help farmers reduce costs and make better decisions”.?Agricultural robots are transforming the industry, from boosting productivity to promoting sustainable farming practices, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
In addition to the aforementioned benefits, agricultural robots can help achieve?SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production ?by reducing waste, improving efficiency, encouraging sustainable practices, and improving traceability in the food supply chain. Enhanced traceability ensures that consumers have a clear understanding of the origin of their food, promoting responsible consumption choices. By supporting sustainable consumption patterns, agricultural robots contribute to a more sustainable future for the planet.
The integration of robotics in agriculture is also fostering the growth of innovative farming practices, paving the way for new business models and partnerships. Companies specializing in agricultural robotics collaborate with farmers and researchers to develop custom solutions tailored to specific needs, fostering a more responsive and resilient agricultural sector.
Moreover, agricultural robots are playing a vital role in preserving biodiversity and protecting natural habitats. By optimizing the use of inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, and water, robots can reduce the negative impact of farming on the environment. This eco-conscious approach helps maintain the delicate balance of ecosystems and supports the conservation of biodiversity.
Robotic innovations like swarm technology, which involves multiple robots working in tandem, are pushing the boundaries of what agricultural robots can achieve. Such technology allows for greater precision and efficiency in farming operations, leading to more sustainable and productive agricultural practices.
As the global population continues to grow, the demand for food is expected to rise significantly, placing immense pressure on the planet’s resources. Agricultural robots are poised to play a pivotal role in meeting this growing demand while ensuring sustainable food production. By optimizing resource usage, reducing waste, and enhancing productivity, these machines can contribute to a more food-secure and environmentally responsible future.
The adoption of agricultural robots is also expected to accelerate the development of smart farming infrastructure. Advanced sensor networks, data analytics platforms, and cloud-based services will become increasingly commonplace, enabling farmers to make better-informed decisions and manage their operations more efficiently. This data-driven approach to agriculture will help minimize risks, reduce uncertainties, and optimize the allocation of resources.
In conclusion, agricultural robots hold immense potential to contribute to multiple SDGs by enhancing food production, fostering economic growth and sustainability, and minimizing environmental impacts. Their integration into the agricultural sector is reshaping traditional farming practices and laying the foundation for a more prosperous, resilient, and sustainable future for all.
Read more on the robots coming to the Summit
Meet the AI-powered robots coming to the Global Summit
Meet the robots on stage at the AI for Good Global Summit 6 -7 July 2023. These robots are helping to accelerate the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Their specialised capabilities are defining a new era of human-machine interaction for good!
Watch the video?here .
领英推荐
Are you ready to unlock the power of AI to create a better world?
Don't miss the chance to attend the?International Telecommunication Union ?#AIforGood ?Global Summit ?on 6-7 July 2023 in Geneva, Switzerland.
This is the world's most inclusive AI solutions and matchmaking event, designed to bring the brightest minds and latest breakthroughs in AI to tackle the toughest challenges facing humanity. From climate change and poverty to education and healthcare, this event will showcase innovative AI solutions aligned with the?United Nations ?Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Get ready to explore state-of-the-art AI technology, learn from leading experts, and participate in a unique matchmaking platform that connects innovators, investors, and decision-makers for global impact.
Join us and discover how AI can transform the way we live and work, and help us build a better future for all, discover the?program !
Our Summit Sponsors
Co-convener Confédération Suisse, our diamond sponsors?Immersion4 ?and?Technology Innovation Institute , our gold sponsors?Monash Data Futures Institute and 中兴 , artistic intelligence sponsor?Shutterstock , our networking sponsors?Rohde & Schwarz ?and?KUKA , and media partners?Fongit ,?Global Shapers - Geneva Hub , Global Shapers - Salzburg Hub , ROBOCAT and Associació El Racó dels Robotaires .
Space is limited!
Free for all to participate both in person or virtually.?
For an exclusive, immersive AI for Good experience, purchase a premium ticket, now available at 20% discount until 31 May, 2023.?
Joining us online?
The event will also be live on our?neural network platform , our AI-powered match-making community platform to connect AI innovators with problem owners
Register?here .
Discover more on the Global Summit 2023:
Enjoyed this newsletter?
Subscribe here ?to our newsletter to receive the latest AI insights.
Attention all AI enthusiasts:
If you are interested in joining the?Neural Network , our AI-powered match-making community platform to connect AI innovators with problem owners. Build your profile to enable smart matching and personalized suggestions to provide you with the best AI for Good experience. Discover 1000s of hours of on-demand content, networking features and virtual exhibitions, in addition to weekly live sessions and interactive content.
Thank you for taking the time to read?AI for Good Insider | Summit Dispatch! We will return with fresh content next week.
This edition of AI for Good Insider | Summit Dispatch was written and curated by Junior Communications Officer,? Irina Timoshenko