Advancements in Precision Agriculture for Maximizing Crop Yield and Minimizing Waste via Innovative Technological Solutions

Abstract

Precision agriculture, a technology-driven approach to farming, integrates GPS, IoT sensors, Variable Rate Technology (VRT), and data analytics to optimize crop yield and resource usage. This study explores the effectiveness of precision agriculture in enhancing productivity and promoting sustainable farming practices by analysing its impact on crop yield, water and fertilizer usage, and environmental metrics. Data was collected through IoT sensors, GPS mapping, and drone-based remote sensing to monitor field conditions, while VRT was used to apply inputs precisely where needed. Comparative analyses between precision and traditional agriculture show a 20% increase in crop yield and a 40% reduction in water and fertilizer usage for fields employing precision techniques. Environmental benefits were also notable, with significant decreases in greenhouse gas emissions and pesticide runoff. Case studies across diverse farming setups and controlled experiments provided further insights into the practical applications and challenges of precision agriculture. While results indicate substantial improvements in efficiency and sustainability, barriers such as high initial costs and technical expertise requirements remain obstacles for broader adoption, particularly among small-scale farmers. Addressing these challenges will require collaborative efforts from policymakers, agricultural organizations, and technology providers to develop accessible and cost-effective solutions. This study concludes that precision agriculture offers a promising path to sustainable, high-yield farming by reducing resource consumption and minimizing environmental impact. However, increased focus on overcoming adoption barriers is essential to make precision agriculture feasible for a wider range of farmers. Further research should continue to optimize these technologies, making them scalable and adaptable to various agricultural contexts worldwide.