Sofia's strawberries conserve water resources
In the heart of Italy's Veneto region, technology is playing a pivotal role in revolutionising sustainable agriculture. The Irrivision project, a three-year initiative funded by Cet Electronics, the Piave Consortium for Land Reclamation, and Terre Grosse winery, is one such example. Although specific details about the Irrivision project are scarce, it underscores the broader application of technology in enhancing agricultural practices.
Technology's multifaceted role in sustainable agriculture is evident in various aspects. Precision farming, for instance, optimises water and fertiliser use through advanced sensors and drones, reducing waste and improving crop yields. This precision prevents overuse of resources, making farming more sustainable.
Biotechnology and bioremediation also hold significant potential. The discovery of bacteria capable of breaking down harmful contaminants like PFAS highlights the role of biotechnology in cleaning polluted soils and maintaining soil health.
Circular economy and energy production are another key areas where technology is making a difference. Projects like biomethane production convert agricultural waste into energy, supporting a circular economy and reducing carbon emissions.
Digitalisation and aquaponics are further examples of how technology is enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Aquaponics, a method that combines soilless agriculture and fish farming, optimises resource use and minimises environmental impact.
Italy's favourable policies for young farmers, including tax incentives and grants, encourage the adoption of modern technologies and sustainable practices. This revitalises the sector, making it more resilient and efficient.
In Veneto, hi-tech greenhouses are leading the way in sustainable agriculture. A 6,000 square meter greenhouse for growing strawberries, realised with economic support from the Rural Development Plan 2014-2022, is a testament to this. The greenhouse, conceived by Rovigo native Sofia Michieli, uses off-the-ground channels to protect strawberries from excessive soil moisture and diseases. Its rain irrigation system eliminates water waste, making it a model of sustainability.
The Irrivision project, while specific details are limited, aims to regulate irrigation based on the actual water needs of plants, using a network of sensors and an artificial vision system. This innovative approach could significantly improve water usage efficiency and contribute to sustainable agriculture.
The Veneto Regional Complement for Rural Development 2023-2027 prioritises innovation with a focus on sustainability, as did the Psr, which dedicated 7.4% of its financial endowment to knowledge transfer and innovation.
As the world grapples with the challenges posed by climate change and market volatility, the massive use of technology in agriculture is increasingly seen as indispensable. Terms like sensor technology, artificial vision, digitalization, and IoT are becoming common among primary sector companies, reflecting the significant changes underway and the effort to equip themselves with tools to achieve specific objectives, such as increased efficiency, productivity, and added value of their products.
For feedback, readers can contact the website's English department. This 2-minute read provides a glimpse into the exciting future of sustainable agriculture in Veneto, Italy, and beyond.
- Technology is not only revolutionizing sustainable agriculture in Italy's Veneto region but also in various aspects such as precision farming, biotechnology, circular economy, digitalization, and aquaponics.
- Precision farming optimizes water and fertilizer use, reducing waste and improving crop yields through advanced sensors and drones, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture.
- Bioremediation, aided by biotechnology, can break down harmful contaminants like PFAS, clean polluted soils, and maintain soil health, contributing significantly to sustainable agricultural practices.
- Energy production projects like biomethane production that convert agricultural waste into energy support a circular economy, reduce carbon emissions, and are another key area where technology plays a crucial role in fostering sustainable living.
