Expert Insights on the Impacts of, and Potential for, Agricultural Big Data

Abstract

Advanced digital technologies are rapidly permeating agriculture from laboratory to field. Machine-based breeding, robotics and big data technologies have deeply transformed not only production systems but also the way scientific research is conducted. How are digital applications revolutionizing people’s jobs and skills? What are the challenges and opportunities for managing and sharing agricultural big data? This article addresses these and other questions by surveying international experts in plant biotechnology. Results show that digital innovations in the form of decision-support tools are perceived as promising. Most surveyed experts anticipate the deployment of big data analytics and artificial intelligence to boost agricultural productivity. Another key finding is that substantial physical investment, specialized human capital and effective data governance are critical to successful implementation of technological innovations associated with big data.

Regulatory frameworks can facilitate or hinder the potential for genome editing to contribute to sustainable agricultural development

“…An increase in the availability of agricultural biotechnologies in both animal and plant breeding has forced governments around the world to adjust, or completely overhaul, their regulatory regimes to either embrace or forgo the benefits of these technologies (Lassoued et al, 2021). GEd comprises powerful new techniques that could distribute innovation in agricultural biotechnology among a wider set of product developers and have more direct benefits to consumers (Lema, 2019).…”

Challenges to Use Machine Learning in Agricultural Big Data: A Systematic Literature Review

“…They identify several challenges, such as data sources, given that not all the segments in the value chain capture data the same way. They also point out that there is no standard by which the data are captured, which makes it difficult to harmonize and compile data from various sources [7]. They note through a survey that the implementation of Big Data in an organization depends on a clear strategy and the means to execute it as well as trained personnel to administer large volumes of data.…”

“…They note through a survey that the implementation of Big Data in an organization depends on a clear strategy and the means to execute it as well as trained personnel to administer large volumes of data. Training and talent, more than capital, are fundamental to optimal production in the future [7]. Another major obstacle identified is data governance.…”

“…Lassoued et al (2021) analyzed the impact and potential of Big Data in agriculture. The authors identify several challenges, such as data sources and lack of standard, lack of security, cybercrime, and intellectual property protection [7]. Bhat and Huang (2021) point out challenges in information quality, safety, and security [3].…”

“…From a societal point of view, Lassoued et al (2021) identify the lack of staff training to manage large volumes of data [7]. On the other hand, Li et al (2020) identified challenges from the point of view of the relatively backward rural areas.…”