Autonomous farming tech has workers divided – Finance and Commerce

Sustainable Development Goals and Farm Automation

Introduction

HOMESTEAD, Fla. — Jeremy Ford, a farmer in Homestead, Florida, has recently implemented an automated underground irrigation system on his five-acre farm. This system, powered by solar energy, has allowed Ford to save thousands of gallons of water while reducing his reliance on fossil fuels. Ford believes that such climate-friendly investments are necessary and more affordable than expanding his workforce. This article explores the growing trend of automation in agriculture and its potential to address labor shortages, manage costs, and improve yields in the face of climate change.

The Potential of Automation in Agriculture

Automation in agriculture has the potential to revolutionize the sector by bringing greater accuracy and efficiency to various tasks such as planting, harvesting, and farm management. While some farms have already adopted automation for row crops like corn and soybeans, challenges remain for harvesting delicate fruits and crops that require strength and dexterity. Scientists and engineers are working on developing robotic systems that can handle these tasks, but widespread adoption is still a work in progress.

Benefits and Concerns

Many farmers see automation as a solution to labor shortages and a way to make their businesses more profitable. Automated systems like tractor autosteer have already proven beneficial in terms of improving efficiency and reducing human error. However, concerns exist regarding the complete replacement of human workers and the potential exploitation of labor. Some farmers worry about losing their connection to the land and the animals, while farm workers express concerns about job security and their rights in the face of automation.

Case Studies

Tim Bucher, a farmer in Northern California, founded AgTonomy to develop automated tractors and tools in response to the challenges posed by climate change and labor shortages. The company has received significant interest from vineyard and orchard growers in California and Washington. Other farmers, like Will Brigham in Vermont, have embraced AI-powered farm monitoring and management systems to address issues such as leaks in tubing used in maple production. These case studies highlight the potential benefits of automation in improving farm operations and addressing labor challenges.

Worker Perspectives

While automation can offer benefits such as improved safety and early detection of diseases in livestock, farm workers have expressed concerns about job displacement and increased pressure to meet productivity targets. Some fear that automation could be used as a tactic to suppress workers’ rights and create a climate of fear. It is important for companies and farm owners to prioritize the well-being and rights of workers as they adopt automation technologies.

This story is a collaboration between The Associated Press and Grist.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• SDG 13: Climate Action

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 2.4: By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production, that help maintain ecosystems, that strengthen capacity for adaptation to climate change, extreme weather, drought, flooding, and other disasters, and that progressively improve land and soil quality.
• SDG 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.
• SDG 9.3: Increase the access of small-scale industrial and other enterprises, in particular in developing countries, to financial services, including affordable credit, and their integration into value chains and markets.
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for SDG 2.4: Adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, such as automated irrigation systems and robotic harvesting arms, that reduce water usage, increase productivity, and mitigate the challenges of growing food in a changing climate.
• Indicator for SDG 8.5: Increase in the adoption of automation technologies in agriculture, resulting in improved productivity, cost management, and labor efficiency.
• Indicator for SDG 9.3: Increase in the availability and affordability of automation tools and equipment for small-scale farmers and producers, enabling their integration into value chains and markets.
• Indicator for SDG 13.2: Adoption of climate-friendly automation technologies in agriculture, such as solar-powered irrigation systems, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: finance-commerce.com