Perspective of a sustainable agricultural mechanization strategy in the Alentejo region

Abstract

The main purpose of this analysis was to discuss a possible strategy for sustainable use of agricultural mechanization in the Alentejo region, considering its social, business and cultural practices, as well as some limiting constraints. Considering several case studies in recent years, the combination of the concepts of conservation agriculture and precision agriculture may suggest a strategy for sustainable smart farming. Alentejo has certain strengths that support the growth of the agricultural sector: there are institutes and university departments that work at the forefront of this field, carrying out research that is vital to agriculture and related technologies, as well as innovative and dynamic farmers and a farm machinery market with innovative solutions compatible with sustainable concepts and precision farming technologies. Nevertheless, it is important to have a regulatory framework that better supports innovation and provides for increased investment in R&D, allowing faster and more widespread adoption of best practices and innovation across farming systems and farmers.