As climate change intensifies, agriculture faces growing challenges. But, there are innovative solutions. The Internet of Things (IoT), for instance, refers to a network of connected devices that collect and share data, enabling smarter decision-making. In agriculture, IoT irrigation systems are emerging as a vital tool to enhance water conservation, resource efficiency and crop resilience. By using real-time data, remote control capabilities and smart technology integration, these systems reduce labour demands while supporting more climate-resilient farming. Here are five key benefits of IoT irrigation:
Precision agriculture and conservation of water use
IoT irrigation enables precise water application by using sensors to monitor soil moisture, temperature and plant-specific needs in real time. Instead of traditional uniform watering, these systems adjust irrigation schedules and amounts based on plant type, soil composition and environmental factors such as slope and sun exposure. This targeted approach conserves water while increasing crop yields.
AI-powered weather forecast integration
By connecting IoT irrigation data with weather forecasts, farmers can optimize watering schedules and avoid unnecessary irrigation before expected rainfall. AI and machine learning enhance this process by analysing historical data and improving weather prediction accuracy. This adaptability is essential for managing climate variability and ensuring efficient water use.
Strengthened climate adaptation
Extreme weather events, such as droughts and heatwaves threaten crop productivity. IoT irrigation helps mitigate these risks by maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, even in challenging conditions. By responding dynamically to climate stressors, these systems enhance crop resilience, leading to better yields and higher-quality produce, which is vital in adapting to changing climatic conditions.
Remote monitoring and control
IoT irrigation systems allow farmers to remotely monitor and control watering schedules via smart devices, reducing their exposure to high temperatures – particularly in the Sahel region – thus reducing negative impacts on their health. By automating irrigation, there is reduced need for manual labour and farmers can allocate time and resources to other essential agricultural tasks or economic activities.
Integration with smart farming systems
Beyond irrigation, IoT systems contribute to broader sustainable farming goals when integrated with crop management platforms, renewable energy sources or ‘agrivoltaics’: an innovative Water-Energy-Food Nexus approach that increases land-use efficiency through the combination of solar energy generation with agricultural production. In simple terms, solar panels are placed on an elevated structure, allowing for space for agricultural activities beneath. Aligning irrigation with peak solar energy production reduces energy consumption, while agrivoltaic systems offer additional benefits such as rainwater harvesting and crop shading.
The Pan-African Cooperation and Educational Technologies (PACET) division at UNU-VIE implements projects such as APV-MaGa and RETO-DOSSO to demonstrate how these integrations optimize water use, enhance renewable energy generation and improve land-use efficiency.
