High-tech is gaining ground in the age-old world of agriculture and agricultural innovations have gradually revolutionised work in the fields and on the farm in recent years.
Agricultural drones, robot weeders, connected farms, urban agriculture, new financing methods – all have developed within a new dynamic ecosystem, the Agritech. Tomorrow’s farmers could control their tractor from a distance or monitor their grazing sheep using a drone.
This Special Report, prepared by EURACTIV France, offers a brief overview of the various innovations that could assist the agricultural sector’s transition towards greener practices.
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‘Agri-tech’ spreading like wildfire across French farms
Technology can already be found everywhere on French farms, but the so-called "agri-tech" trend wants to push innovation even further. Two hundred fifty of France's start-ups are already specialising in agriculture and working towards developing software, drones, robots, artificial intelligence and satellites. EURACTIV France reports.
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Could robot weeders be the solution to France’s pesticide problem?
As farmers are urged to reduce their use of plant protection products, they are forced to take on manual weeding, a tedious task for which manpower is hard to find. But could so-called 'robot weeders' provide a solution to this problem? EURACTIV France reports.
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How automation can work to support effiency in farming systems
Automation in the farming sector is playing an increasing role in improving the quality of both animal and farmers lives. Pascal Huger, a goat breeder in Thenay in the Loir-et-Cher region, talks to EURACTIV France about his choice to automate on his farm.
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Agricultural drones are gradually ‘taking off’ in France
France is experimenting with drones as a means of spraying pesticides so that by 2021 it may launch the practice as it could lead to more precise treatments, as well as a reduction in the use of phytosanitary products. EURACTIV France reports.
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Sustainable rooftop-fish-farming conquers Brussels city heights
Europe's largest urban farm, located on the rooftops of the EU capital, raises fish and grows vegetables while meeting strict circular economy criteria. The founder of BIGH (Building Integrated Greenhouses), Steven Beckers, says his urban farm plans to emulate his successful practice across the border. EURACTIV France reports.
