Cutting-Edge Artificial Intelligence: A Revolution For Sustainable Agriculture

The rise of advanced artificial intelligence (edge ​​AI) could well mark the start of a new era for sustainable agriculture. A recent study, carried out by researchers from the University of Liège, proposes a roadmap for the integration of this technology into agricultural practices. The objective? Improve the efficiency, quality and safety of agricultural production, while addressing various environmental, social and economic challenges.

A primary goal of sustainable agricultural practices is to efficiently feed a growing global population. Digital technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), can bring substantial benefits to agriculture by improving agricultural practices that can increase the efficiency, yield, quality and safety of agricultural production. Edge AI refers to the implementation of artificial intelligence in an edge computing environment. “This technology allows calculations to be carried out close to where the data is collected, rather than in a centralized cloud computing facility or an off-site data center,” explains Moussa El Jarroudi , researcher in Environment and Crop Epidemiology at the Faculty of Sciences / Campus Arlon Environnement . Devices can therefore make smarter decisions more quickly, without connecting to the cloud or off-site data centers."

In a new study published in the scientific journal Nature Sustainability, a scientific team led by Moussa El Jarroudi demonstrates how to overcome these difficulties and how AI can be practically integrated into agricultural systems to meet the growing needs of food production sustainable. “The deployment of AI in agriculture is not without challenges. It requires innovative solutions and the establishment of adequate infrastructure. Experts such as Professor Said Hamdioui from Delft University of Technology have developed energy-efficient systems capable of functioning independently. Although challenges remain, particularly in the context of climate change, the prospects opened up by these advances are promising.

The University of Liège played a crucial role in this study, bringing cutting-edge resources and expertise in the fields of artificial intelligence and sustainable agriculture. ULiège researchers have developed innovative edge AI solutions and have conducted in-depth analyzes on their potential impact on agricultural practices.

A new era for agriculture
“The results of our study are part of a growing trend to integrate advanced technologies into agriculture to achieve sustainability objectives,” continues Benoît Mercatoris , co-author of the study and agronomy researcher at Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech. The adoption of edge AI can transform agricultural practices by increasing resource efficiency, improving crop quality and reducing environmental impacts. This technology is positioned as an essential pillar for the future of agriculture . sustainable agriculture."

The applications are vast: improving crop management through real-time data, optimizing the use of resources such as water and fertilizers, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing food security or even strengthening capabilities to monitor and respond to changing climate conditions. This study paves the way for more intelligent and environmentally friendly agriculture, thanks to edge AI. A technological revolution that could well transform the way we produce and consume.