E3S Web of Conferences 491, 01020 (2024) https://doi.org/10.

1051/e3sconf/202449101020
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AI and IoT in Farming: A Sustainable Approach

Abbas Hameed Abdul Hussein1 ,Kadhim A. Jabbar2 ,Aymen Mohammed3 ,Hassan M. Al-
Jawahry3
1College of Pharmacy, Ahl Al Bayt University, Karbala, Iraq
2National University Of Science And Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
3Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
4The Islamic university, Najaf, Iraq

Abstract. This paper reviews the emerging and critical role of Artificial
Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in transforming modern
agriculture into a more sustainable and efficient practice. Faced with
escalating global population demands and a myriad of challenges such as
climate change, labor costs, and market fluctuations, the agricultural sector
is at a pivotal juncture. The integration of AI and IoT offers a beacon of
hope, enabling smarter farming methods through real-time monitoring, data
analysis, and management of agricultural processes. This review delves into
the application of these technologies in various facets of farming, including
precision agriculture, crop yield forecasting, and the management of
resources. It explores how AI's analytical prowess can predict and address
crop diseases, automate farming operations, and assist in decision-making,
while IoT's network of sensors and devices facilitates the real-time tracking
and monitoring of farm conditions. Additionally, the synergy of these
technologies with blockchain and cloud computing is examined,
highlighting their potential in enhancing transparency, data security, and
supply chain management. Collectively, these technological innovations are
not just reshaping the agricultural landscape but are instrumental in steering
it towards a more sustainable, productive, and resilient future.
Keywords: IoT, AI, agricultural, soil, water

1 Introduction
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of economic stability and sustenance. Despite its
significant contribution to the global agricultural output and the sustenance of a substantial
portion of the population, the agricultural sector's share in the GDP is disproportionately low.
This disparity underlines a pressing need for transformation, especially considering the
reliance of agriculture on unpredictable factors such as weather, and its critical role in
supporting a majority of the population. The integration of e-agriculture, using smart

1
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2
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3
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4
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© The Authors, published by EDP Sciences. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative
Commons Attribution License 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
E3S Web of Conferences 491, 01020 (2024) https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202449101020
ICECS'24

technologies, emerges as a potential pathway to address these systemic challenges and

inefficiencies.

The plight of farmers worldwide is marred by financial distress, market risks, climate
variability, and inadequate infrastructure. The statistics reflecting high rates of farmer
suicides and migration away from agriculture paint a grim picture of the sector's health. This
scenario is exacerbated by inefficient supply chains, lack of proper storage facilities, and a
crippling credit system, pushing farmers into a vicious cycle of debt and despair. The
increasing cost of agricultural inputs, coupled with diminishing production prices, further
aggravates this crisis, calling for an urgent intervention through innovative and sustainable
farming practices.
Smart farming has emerged as a beacon of hope in this scenario. By incorporating advanced
technologies such as AI and IoT, smart farming aims to revolutionize traditional agricultural
practices. These technologies promise to optimise the entire agricultural value chain - from
crop cultivation and monitoring to processing, transportation, and marketing. The potential
of smart farming lies in its ability to make agriculture more efficient, reduce waste, and
enhance overall productivity, thereby offering a sustainable solution to the myriad challenges
faced by the sector.
The environmental impact of conventional farming practices cannot be overlooked. The
degradation of soil, water, and air quality, primarily due to the excessive use of fertilizers and
pesticides, poses a significant threat to biodiversity and ecological balance. Moreover, the
emission of greenhouse gases from agricultural activities contributes to climate change,
affecting all living organisms and their habitats. In this context, sustainable agriculture
emerges as a crucial approach, aiming to preserve natural resources, enhance biodiversity,
and reduce environmental footprints without compromising the yield and quality of food
production.
However, the journey towards sustainable and smart agriculture is fraught with geographical
and environmental challenges. The heterogeneity of cultivable areas, soil quality, irrigation
patterns, and pest resistance, along with political and economic factors influencing land use,
make it a complex endeavour. The decline in agricultural land use and the need for crop-
specific, site-specific management underline the necessity for precision and sustainability in
farming practices. AI and IoT technologies, with their ability to analyse and respond to these
diverse conditions, offer a promising solution to optimize crop production, ensuring both
sustainability and efficiency.

2 Review and discussion

In the "Review and Discussion" section of our article, we delve into an examination of
various farming methods, the advantageous role AI and IoT can play in agriculture, and the
challenges inherent in integrating these technologies.
Traditional farming methods, which form the backbone of agriculture across the world, have
been characterised by manual labour and conventional practices. These methods, though
rooted in historical and cultural practices, often lack efficiency and are susceptible to
environmental and economic uncertainties. In contrast, modern farming techniques, such as
precision agriculture, leverage technology to optimise farming processes. Here, the role of
AI and IoT is transformative, offering precision and efficiency previously unattainable in
traditional agriculture.
AI and IoT bring a plethora of advantages to the agricultural domain. AI, with its capability
for advanced data analysis, can aid in crop disease prediction, soil health monitoring, and
yield forecasting. This predictive capacity allows for timely and precise interventions, thus
enhancing crop quality and quantity. IoT, on the other hand, serves as the backbone for real-

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time monitoring and control. Through a network of sensors and devices, IoT enables
continuous observation of farm conditions, from soil moisture levels to climate variations,
facilitating immediate and informed decision-making.
However, the integration of AI and IoT in agriculture is not without its challenges. One
significant hurdle is the digital divide, which can limit access to these technologies, especially
in less developed regions. The high cost of implementation and maintenance of AI and IoT
systems is another deterrent. Additionally, concerns about data privacy, security, and the need
for robust infrastructure to handle large volumes of data are critical issues that need
addressing.

Here's a table that has our literature survey details of different studies on Smart Agriculture.
Table 1. Sustainable Agriculture: Over of Current Literature

Technology
Author Title Reference Summary Interpretation
Used

Study: Focuses
on decision-
making in Sharma et al.'s work
precision portrays a highly
agriculture, interconnected
enhancing agricultural
production and ecosystem where
reducing IoT forms the
environmental backbone of data
impacts. collection and
Analysis: transmission. AI is
Examines AI the analytical engine
and IoT in that drives decision-
sustainable making, optimizing
Artificial precision production while
intelligence and farming, looking being
internet of things IoT, AI, cloud, at nutrient environmentally
oriented edge, and fog management, conscious. The
Sharma et water quality,
sustainable [1] computing, 5G integration of cloud,
al., (2023) and resource
precision communication edge, and fog
farming: systems management. computing, along
Towards Modern Conclusion: with advanced 5G
Agriculture Concludes that communication,
AI, ML, and IoT enables rapid and
are crucial for efficient data
precision handling. This
farming's future, holistic approach
improving advocates for a
decision-making precision farming
and production model that is not
while reducing only efficient but
environmental also sustainable,
impacts. aligning with
Proposes modern agricultural
continued needs.
research and
development to
address

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challenges like
cost and data
privacy.

Study: Proposes In the study by

smart farming Alam et al., the
with AI and convergence of AI
blockchain for and blockchain
agricultural task technology heralds a
automation and new era in
management. agriculture. AI
Analysis: automates and
Focuses on AI- streamlines farming
based blockchain operations, while
innovation for blockchain
sustainable introduces
A Neoteric Smart
supply chains in unprecedented
and Sustainable
agriculture. levels of
Farming Artificial
Conclusion: AI- transparency and
Environment Intelligence
Alam et based blockchain traceability in the
Incorporating [2] (AI), Blockchain
al., (2020) is promising for supply chain. This
Blockchain- Technology
supply chain combination not
Based Artificial (BCT)
transparency but only enhances
Intelligence
faces challenges efficiency but also
Approach
like fosters trust and
governmental accountability in
support and agricultural
regulatory practices. The study
frameworks. underscores the
Suggests more transformative
research and potential of these
development to technologies in
realize AI and creating a more
blockchain's sustainable and
benefits in equitable farming
agriculture. environment.

Study: Focuses AlZubi et al. delve

on AI and IoT into the integration
technologies in of AI and IoT in
farming for agriculture,
sustainable portraying a
Artificial agriculture. scenario where
Intelligence and Analysis: precision and
IoT and AI, Analyses IoT efficiency are
Internet of
including technologies in paramount. The
AlZubi et Things for
[3] technologies like agriculture, utilization of drones
al., (2023) Sustainable
drones and examining their and UAVs,
Farming and
UAVs role in SSA underpinned by AI
Smart
Agriculture platforms. algorithms,
Conclusion: facilitates a nuanced
Concludes AI understanding of
and IoT are agricultural
crucial for landscapes. This
agriculture, approach enables
emphasizing proactive and

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integrated informed decision-

platforms to making, enhancing
address farming crop yields while
production mindful of
fragmentation. environmental
Highlights sustainability. The
technological research emphasizes
advancements the need for
and integrated cohesive platforms
solutions for that bring together
sustainable disparate
agriculture. technological
solutions,
addressing the
fragmented nature
of traditional
farming practices.

The study by
Dhanaraju et al.
explores the
transformative
impact of IoT and
Study:
cloud computing in
Investigates IoT
agriculture. It
and cloud
presents a vision
computing in
where information
smart farming.
and communication
Analysis:
technologies are
Discusses
seamlessly
challenges in
integrated into
integrating IoT
farming practices,
with traditional
facilitating real-time
farming.
Smart Farming: data analysis and
IoT, Cloud Conclusion:
Internet of decision support.
Dhanaraju Computing, Smart farming
Things (IoT)- This integration
et al., [4] Information and can increase
Based propels agricultural
(2022) Communication productivity, but
Sustainable efficiency and
Technology adoption faces
Agriculture productivity,
affordability
addressing the
challenges.
challenges of global
Highlights smart
food security and
farming's role in
sustainable
achieving
development. The
sustainable
research also sheds
development
light on the practical
goals, improving
challenges of
crop production
adopting these
for global food
technologies,
demand.
emphasizing the
need for accessible
and cost-effective
solutions in the
agricultural sector.

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Athani et al. have

implemented a
pragmatic solution
Study:
for soil moisture
Developed a
monitoring in rural
cost-effective
India. Using readily
soil moisture
available and cost-
monitoring
effective IoT
Soil moisture system using IoT
components like
monitoring using and neural
Arduino sensors, the
IoT enabled networks.
system gathers
arduino sensors Analysis: The
IoT enabled critical soil data. By
with neural system aims to
Arduino sensors, employing neural
networks for enhance soil
Neural networks, the
Athani et improving soil management and
[5] Networks, system processes
al., (2017) management for predict rainfall.
Mobile this data to provide
farmers and Conclusion: The
Application, actionable insights
predict seasonal system is
WiFi Shield to farmers. This
rainfall for economical and
technology can lead
planning future suitable for rural
to better water
harvest in North and small-scale
management and
Karnataka - India farmers,
soil conservation
improving
practices, essential
irrigation
for sustainable
efficiency and
farming in regions
water
with limited
conservation.
technological access
and irregular rainfall
patterns.

Farooq et al.'s
Study: Explores comprehensive
various IoT survey reveals the
technologies and transformative
their applications potential of IoT in
in smart farming. agriculture. The
Analysis: study delves into the
Discusses major integration of cloud
IoT, Cloud and components of and edge
Edge IoT-based computing, big data
A Survey on the Computing, Big farming analytics, and
Role of IoT in Data Analytics, including machine learning,
Farooq et Agriculture for Machine network highlighting how
[6]
al., (2019) the Learning, technologies and these technologies
Implementation Robotics, security issues. can collectively
of Smart Farming Communication Conclusion: revolutionize
Networks and Highlights the farming practices.
Protocols potential of IoT Robotics and
in agriculture, advanced
emphasizing the communication
need for networks further
standardized enhance this IoT
regulations and ecosystem, allowing
research on open for more efficient,
issues. sustainable, and
data-driven

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agriculture. The
study underscores
the importance of
standardization and
ongoing research in
maximizing IoT's
benefits for smart
farming.

Wolfert et al.
present a forward-
thinking approach to
achieving
sustainable
agriculture through
IoT. They
emphasize how IoT,
Study: Examines coupled with AI,
IoT's role in can significantly
achieving contribute to
sustainable sustainability goals.
agriculture. The methodology
Analysis: proposed for
Sustainable
Proposes a monitoring IoT’s
agriculture by the
methodology to impact on
Internet of
Internet of measure and sustainable
Things–A
Wolfert et Things (IoT), monitor IoT's agriculture
practitioner's [7]
al., (2022) Artificial contribution to underscores its
approach to
Intelligence (AI) sustainability. potential to
monitor
Conclusion: transform farming
sustainability
Demonstrates a practices. This
progress
positive impact approach not only
of IoT on aids in optimizing
sustainability, agricultural
though productivity but also
influenced by aligns farming
external factors. activities with
broader
sustainability
objectives, thus
paving the way for
environmentally
conscious and
efficient agricultural
practices.

The integration of AI and IoT in agriculture is pivotal for transforming traditional farming
into a more efficient, sustainable, and equitable practice. These technologies offer significant
advancements in precision agriculture, leading to data-driven decision-making, enhanced
crop yields, and reduced environmental impact. However, the successful adoption of these
technologies hinges on overcoming challenges such as accessibility, affordability, and the
digital divide, particularly in rural and less developed regions. In summary, AI and IoT hold
tremendous potential for the future of agriculture, promising to address both current
challenges and future needs of the sector [8-14].

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3 Future Scope of Research

In considering the future scope of research within the domain of AI and IoT in agriculture, it
becomes evident that there are numerous avenues for exploration and advancement.
1. Scalability and Affordability: Future research should focus on developing scalable
and affordable AI and IoT solutions that can be easily adopted by farmers across
various economic backgrounds, especially in developing countries.
2. Data Security and Privacy: As agricultural systems become increasingly data-
driven, there's a critical need for research into robust data security and privacy
protocols to protect sensitive agricultural data.
3. Climate Adaptation Models: With the growing impact of climate change on
agriculture, research into AI models that predict and adapt to changing climatic
conditions can significantly aid in crop resilience.
4. Integration of Blockchain: Investigating the integration of blockchain technology
with AI and IoT for enhanced transparency and traceability in the agricultural supply
chain is a promising area for future research.
5. Autonomous Machinery and Robotics: Further development of autonomous
agricultural machinery and robotics, powered by AI, to reduce labor costs and
increase efficiency.
6. Customised AI Solutions: Research into tailored AI solutions that cater to the
specific needs of different types of crops and geographical conditions.
7. AI in Pest and Disease Prediction: Enhancing the capability of AI in early
detection and management of pests and diseases could significantly reduce crop
losses.

4 Knowledge Gaps
Identifying knowledge gaps is crucial for guiding future research and ensuring the effective
application of AI and IoT in agriculture.
1. Understanding Smallholder Needs: There is a gap in understanding the specific
challenges and needs of smallholder farmers regarding the adoption of AI and IoT
technologies.
2. Long-Term Impact Studies: Limited research exists on the long-term impacts of
AI and IoT implementation in agriculture, particularly regarding environmental and
socio-economic aspects.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: A noticeable gap in interdisciplinary
collaboration exists, which is essential for integrating agricultural knowledge with
technological advancements.
4. User-Friendly Interfaces: There is a need for more research into the development
of user-friendly interfaces for AI and IoT technologies, making them accessible to
farmers with varying levels of technological literacy.
5. Localised Data Collection and Analysis: More research is needed in localized data
collection and analysis to ensure the AI and IoT solutions are effectively tailored to
specific regional agricultural contexts.
6. Training and Education: A significant gap exists in training and educational
programs for farmers and agricultural workers on the use of AI and IoT
technologies.
7. Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Research is needed to inform policy and
regulatory frameworks that facilitate the ethical and effective use of AI and IoT in
agriculture, considering different regional regulations and cultural practices.

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5 Conclusion
As we conclude our review on the integration of AI and IoT in farming for a sustainable
approach, it's important to encapsulate the key findings that have emerged from our study:
1. Enhanced Efficiency and Precision in Agriculture: The implementation of AI
and IoT technologies in farming practices significantly improves efficiency and
precision. This encompasses better resource management, accurate crop monitoring,
and optimized agricultural output.
2. Sustainable Agricultural Practices: AI and IoT contribute to more sustainable
farming methods, reducing environmental impacts through efficient resource use
and sustainable crop management techniques.
3. Economic Viability for Farmers: These technologies offer economic benefits to
farmers by increasing crop yields, reducing wastage, and providing data-driven
insights for better farm management, thus potentially increasing profitability.
4. Challenges in Adoption and Implementation: Despite their benefits, there are
challenges in adopting these technologies, primarily due to high costs, the need for
technical expertise, and infrastructural limitations, especially in developing regions.
5. Data Security and Privacy Concerns: As farming becomes more data-centric,
concerns around data security and privacy emerge as critical issues that need
addressing to ensure farmer trust and technology adoption.
6. Need for Tailored Solutions and Education: There is a pressing need for solutions
that are tailored to specific local conditions and crop types. Additionally, educating
farmers and agricultural workers about these technologies is crucial for their
successful implementation.
In summary, AI and IoT technologies hold the promise of transforming agriculture into a
more efficient, sustainable, and economically viable sector. However, realizing this potential
fully requires addressing the existing challenges, including the need for affordable,
accessible, and region-specific technology solutions, alongside robust policies and
educational frameworks.

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