The Future of Farming: AI, Digital Agronomy, and the Water Crisis

From Mexico to Morocco, we hear real-world examples of how digital platforms are allowing agronomists to remotely manage crops, prevent disease outbreaks, and address labour shortages. Darryn also tackles the ageing farmer population crisis, the role of corporate farming, and why we need to prioritise agricultural innovation in regions like Africa and South Asia.

Key Takeaways

• Water is the defining issue for farming – Farmers worldwide are facing severe water shortages, forcing them to rethink irrigation strategies. AI-powered systems optimise water use, ensuring better yields with less waste.

• Digital agronomy is transforming farming – By integrating IoT sensors, AI, and cloud computing, farmers can predict climate risks, monitor plant health, and optimise input use in real-time.

• Precision agriculture reduces waste – Digital tools allow farmers to target specific areas for pesticide and fertiliser use rather than treating entire fields unnecessarily, leading to cost savings and sustainability.

• The role of data in crop genetics – AI is being used to develop resilient crops that can withstand heat stress, drought, and pests—ensuring food security in a changing climate.

• Bridging the knowledge gap in agriculture – With the average farmer age at 60+ years, digital platforms can capture and pass down generational knowledge to younger, tech-savvy growers.

• Africa and South Asia will drive the future of farming – Population growth in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia is outpacing food production, making agricultural innovation critical for global food security.

Episode Highlights

• Water crisis in agriculture – Darryn shares how Mexican tomato growers are facing a 64% water shortfall, forcing them to shrink planting areas.

• How digital twins are changing farming – AI-driven climate models allow farmers to predict extreme weather events before they happen.

• The growing role of agronomists – Platforms like WayBeyond’s FarmRoad allow agronomists to remotely advise farmers from thousands of miles away, reducing costs and improving efficiency.

• Corporate vs. family farms – The shift toward corporate agriculture is reshaping food production, but what does this mean for sustainability and ethics?

• Preventing pest and disease outbreaks – AI-powered early detection systems allow farmers to target specific crop areas instead of using blanket pesticide applications.

• Where is the innovation most needed? – With Africa projected to have the largest and youngest population by 2050, Darryn argues that farming innovation must focus on these regions.

Calls to Action

• Explore AI-driven farming solutions – Learn more about how WayBeyond is optimising digital agronomy at waybeyond.io.

• Support sustainable farming – Choose food brands that prioritize water conservation and regenerative agriculture.

• Engage in the conversation – Share your thoughts on AI in agriculture using #EITFoodFight and #FutureOfFarming.

• Encourage agricultural education – If you’re in academia or policy, consider how digital training for farmers can bridge the knowledge gap in agriculture.

Resources

• WayBeyond – AI-powered agronomy platform for precision farming

• EIT Food Reports – Latest research on sustainability and digital agriculture

• UN Water Report – Global insights on water scarcity and food production

• FAO Climate & Agriculture Report – The latest updates on climate-smart farming

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