Innovation and technology: pillars of the future of agriculture in the EU

The European Commission has published its latest EU Agricultural Outlook report for 2024-2035.

The"EU Agricultural Outlook Report" (2024-2035) presented by the European Commission offers a detailed overview of the outlook for the agricultural sector in the region.

Aside from the vast amount of data and projections contained in the report, it is worth highlighting how the concepts of innovation and technology are included as determining factors for the future of agriculture in the EU . This report underscores how innovation and technology will play a crucial role in its evolution. In a context marked by climate challenges, limited natural resources, and increasing global competition, the report highlights the need to integrate advanced technological solutions to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of agriculture in the EU.

The transformative role of technology in the European countryside

The mechanization and digitalization of agricultural activities are positioned as key tools for improving input management, including significant fuel savings, more precise fertilizer application, and more effective crop protection. However, the report emphasizes that the adoption of these technologies cannot be limited to one-time investments in machinery. A systemic approach is required that considers factors such as:

• Research and development (R&D): Joint efforts of the public and private sectors to drive innovation.
• Rural connectivity: Although inequalities between urban and rural areas persist, the expansion of 5G and Very High Capacity (VHCN) networks has improved significantly in recent years.
• Workforce training: A skilled workforce is essential to taking advantage of the benefits of automation and digitalization.
• Access to financing: Facilitate financial resources for the acquisition and adoption of advanced technologies.

Sustainable production: a balance between growth and innovation

The report projects moderate but sustainable growth in EU agricultural production, driven by crops such as maize, barley, and plant proteins. Despite the adverse effects of climate change and input volatility, the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices and advanced technologies is expected to offset these constraints. Prominent examples include:

• Increased oilseed yields: The technology is expected to increase sunflower and soybean yields by 20-40% by 2035, reaching levels comparable with the world's leading producers.
• Feed efficiency: Innovations could improve the productivity of non-ruminants (pigs and poultry) by up to 4% with the same amount of feed.

Emissions reduction and climate sustainability

EU agriculture also aims to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to the report, direct emissions from agricultural production could decrease significantly, especially in the livestock sector, while crop emissions would remain stable. This achievement would be possible thanks to:

• Sustainable agricultural practices: Such as precision and regenerative agriculture.
• Emission reduction technologies: Measures promoted by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

Challenges of the agricultural workforce

The aging of European farmers (average age 57) and the low participation of young people (only 12% are under 40) pose a significant risk to the sector's future. While modernization could reduce the need for manual labor, skilled workers to operate advanced technologies and skilled managers to lead technologically advanced farms will be crucial.

Conclusion: innovate to lead

The EU Agricultural Outlook Report makes it clear that the future of EU agriculture will depend on its ability to integrate technology and innovation into all aspects of production. From rural connectivity to climate sustainability, every technological advance represents an opportunity to strengthen the sector's competitiveness, ensure food security, and reconcile the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of agriculture. Embracing innovation is not just an option, but a necessity to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

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