Digital transformation in Middle Eastern agriculture combats climate change

The Middle East, encompassing approximately 7.3 million square kilometres and home to an estimated 500 million inhabitants, is positioned as one of the most significant regions globally. However, it faces numerous challenges, notably armed conflicts that have affected growth forecasts by institutions such as the World Bank, and the impact of climate change, which has led to a marked increase in temperatures. Over the last decade, the temperature rise in the region has approached double the global average, with the world witnessing an increase of 0.45º C compared to 0.27º C.

The effects of climate change are particularly acute in the Middle East, where rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events pose significant risks to food security. These elements disrupt crop cycles, increase the likelihood of droughts and extreme rainfall, and alter the distribution of pests and diseases across the region.

In response to these pressing challenges, the digital transformation of irrigated agriculture has emerged as a critical lever for change. Begoña Tarrazona, an Irrigation Specialist at Idrica, noted that agriculture is fundamental to global food security as well as the improvement of environmental health. She emphasised the need for a balance between food production and environmental stewardship, stating, “the solution is to balance food production with respect for the environment, which is crucial for the wellbeing of the planet and future generations.”

Some nations within the region have effectively converted these challenges into opportunities by embracing digital technologies that are revolutionising agriculture in arid climates. For instance, Israel has developed a highly sophisticated agricultural industry and is regarded as a global leader in agricultural technologies. Saudi Arabia has made substantial investments over recent decades in sustainable agriculture projects that leverage technology to cultivate crops in desert conditions, thereby reducing import dependency. Moreover, the United Arab Emirates has adopted advanced farming technologies, including hydroponics and vertical farming, to boost local food production and enhance food security.

Christian Pérez, Senior Business Development Manager—Digital for Middle East and Turkey at Xylem, remarked on the urgency of digital transformation within the agricultural sector, asserting, “it is not a luxury in the Middle East but rather a pressing need to ensure sustainability, food security, and self-sufficiency.”

According to insights from Xylem Vue, the digital transformation in irrigated agriculture revolves around four pivotal technologies designed to modernise the sector:

1. Internet of Things (IoT) Sensors: These sensors provide real-time monitoring of vital variables such as soil moisture and plant health, allowing for precise and efficient agricultural management. Tarrazona stated, “digital transformation is a huge stride forward towards guaranteeing sustainability and reducing water stress,” underscoring the importance of sensor deployment to aid resource optimisation.

2. Smart Irrigation Systems: Recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), these systems match water supply with the specific needs of individual crops and areas. This approach reduces over-irrigation, prevents nutrient carry-over, and optimises the water footprint, thus addressing resource degradation while enhancing production.

3. Satellite Imagery and Drones: These technologies provide valuable insights into crop conditions, facilitating early issue detection and strategic resource planning.

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Leveraging data from IoT sensors integrated with big data platforms allows for AI-driven analysis, which can uncover behavioural patterns and trends, ultimately refining agricultural processes.

The integration of these technologies has yielded significant benefits across the region, as highlighted by the Xylem Vue platform—a collaboration between Xylem and Idrica. Key achievements include:

• Optimisation of Water Use: The introduction of smart irrigation systems and hydroponics has enabled more sustainable management of water resources, particularly in water-scarce areas like Morocco.

• Enhanced Productivity: Innovative agricultural practices have resulted in increased crop yields, allowing countries such as Israel to attain self-sufficiency in food production and become exporters of agricultural products.

• Environmental Sustainability: Digital farming reduces reliance on chemical inputs while optimally managing resources, contributing to environmental conservation.

• Improvement of Food Security: The adoption of agricultural technologies has bolstered the capacity for local food production in the region, thereby decreasing reliance on imports and enhancing overall food security.

As the digital transformation of irrigated agriculture progresses in the Middle East, it exemplifies how innovative approaches can tackle environmental challenges and promote a sustainable future within the region. With ongoing advancements in technology, the role of digital agriculture is poised to expand significantly, adapting to climate change while driving food security in arid landscapes.

Source: Noah Wire Services