Robotics and Autonomous Systems for Net Zero Agriculture

Abstract

Purpose of Review The paper discusses how robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) are being deployed to decarbonise agricultural production. The climate emergency cannot be ameliorated without dramatic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions across the agri-food sector. This review outlines the transformational role for robotics in the agri-food system and considers where research and focus might be prioritised. Recent Findings Agri-robotic systems provide multiple emerging opportunities that facilitate the transition towards net zero agriculture. Five focus themes were identified where robotics could impact sustainable food production systems to (1) increase nitrogen use efficiency, (2) accelerate plant breeding, (3) deliver regenerative agriculture, (4) electrify robotic vehicles, (5) reduce food waste. Summary RAS technologies create opportunities to (i) optimise the use of inputs such as fertiliser, seeds, and fuel/energy; (ii) reduce the environmental impact on soil and other natural resources; (iii) improve the efficiency and precision of agricultural processes and equipment; (iv) enhance farmers’ decisions to improve crop care and reduce farm waste. Further and scaled research and technology development are needed to exploit these opportunities.

Impact of environmental policies on the profitability of greenhouse agriculture in southeastern Spain

“…This behavior would significantly affect greenhouse agriculture in southeastern Spain, which makes intensive use of soil (Rufí‐Salís et al, 2020; Valera‐Martínez et al, 2014). In the future, the combined implementation of other production techniques that are currently experimental, such as digital twins or robotization, could further increase production costs and drastically decrease the economic profitability of the activity (Ariesen‐Verschuur et al, 2022; MAPA & Cajamar, 2022; Pearson et al, 2022).…”

“…However, they demand the implementation of new production infrastructures, with the consequent expansion of the environmental footprint. This Cajamar, 2022;Pearson et al, 2022). et al, 2020).…”

Achieving net-zero emissions in agriculture: a review

“…fertilizers and pesticides) [54,[64][65][66]. For example, annual soil tillage is one of the most energy-intensive activities on farms [54]; previous studies have shown that moving to no-till systems can halve on-farm energy inputs [62]. However, the impact of no-till on GHG emissions would vary by region, and no-till practices would lead to greater fertilizer and pesticide expenditures [67].…”

“…Electrification can also improve the energy efficiency of on-farm energy use [27]. Fossil fuel-powered conventional tractors can be replaced by smaller and lighter electric machines, opening new avenues for the implementation of precision robotics and automation technologies [27,62]. Digitalization of agriculture with sensors, robots, and artificial intelligence can increase resource efficiency and reduce the need for energy and inputs (e.g.…”

“…Precision agriculture technologies, such as drip irrigation and fertigation [123], and increased use of controlled-release fertilizers can increase nitrogen use efficiency by applying the 4R Nutrient Stewardship concept, which involves applying the right source of nutrients, at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place [124]. Robotics, artificial intelligence, sensors, and autonomous systems are being developed to reduce fertilizer use and improve farming efficiency by accurately delivering fertilizers [62,63,67]. Drainage systems can reduce nitrous oxide emissions and fertilizer inputs, but they can also increase downstream nitrous oxide emissions due to increased nitrate leaching [125].…”