Michael Holzer
Director and Principal @ Mikani | Innovation and Investment
July 1, 2024
The global population is growing, and so is the demand for food. By 2050, an estimated 9.9 billion people will inhabit our planet, and food demand is projected to leap by 35%–56% during that time. To meet this challenge, the agriculture industry is turning to AI as a powerful ally.
AI has the potential to revolutionise farming practices and enhancing crop and livestock production. Digitisation of farming practices has grown with speed and impact over the past generation or two. Artificial Intelligence has the potential to exponentially change practices in a much shorter timeframe.
Consider the Agricultural Value Chain below. Think of the areas that apply to not just primary production, but to all facets of the process from paddock to plate.
Micro and macronutrients in the soil significantly impact crop health and yield quality. Traditionally, human observation determined soil quality and crop health, but this method is neither accurate nor timely. Enter drones (UAVs) equipped with cameras. These aerial devices capture image data, which AI-powered computer vision models analyse to monitor crop and soil conditions.
Visual sensing AI can:
● Track Crop Health: By assessing plant growth patterns, AI identifies stressed areas and potential issues.
● Predict Yields: Accurate yield predictions help farmers optimise production efficiency.
● Detect Crop Malnutrition: AI detects nutrient deficiencies faster than human observation, allowing immediate corrective action.
Early detection of plant diseases is crucial for preventing crop losses. AI algorithms analyse images of leaves, stems, and fruits to identify signs of disease. By spotting symptoms early, farmers can take targeted measures to protect their crops.
AI-powered sensors track livestock health, detecting anomalies in behavior, temperature, and feeding patterns. This real-time monitoring helps prevent disease outbreaks and ensures animal welfare.
AI-equipped machinery optimise pesticide and herbicide application. Self-driving tractors and sprayers precisely target affected areas, reducing chemical usage and environmental impact.
Drones capture high-resolution images of fields, helping farmers assess crop health, irrigation needs, and pest infestations. These insights guide decision-making and resource allocation.
Computer vision systems analyse fruits and vegetables, sorting them based on size, color, and quality. This automation streamlines post-harvest processes and ensures consistent product standards.
As AI adoption grows, farmers may become AI engineers, fine-tuning algorithms and customising solutions for their specific needs. Imagine personalised crop management systems that adapt to each field’s unique conditions.
AI is not just a buzzword; it’s a game-changer for agriculture. By harnessing its power, we can address food security challenges, optimise resource usage, and create a more sustainable future for our planet. As technology continues to evolve, the fields we sow today will yield smarter harvests tomorrow.
Look beyond what we have already achieved:
- Farm Mapping
- Paddock, Field and Soil Sensors
- Satellite Images
- Livestock Geo-tagging
- Farm Management and Activities
- Certification, Quality and Traceability
- Processing, Stock and Sales Management
Remember, AI in agriculture isn’t science fiction—it’s science fact. Let’s cultivate a greener, more efficient world together!