Research project European Partnership - Agriculture of Data
General introduction
Digital technologies and data play a crucial role in the future of agriculture. The AgData research project brings together multiple research institutions and funders to strengthen the data architecture and ease of use of data in a more digitalized agricultural environment. Enhanced data use helps to develop innovative solutions, methodologies, and indicators. One focus of AgData is climate adaptation and resilience in agriculture, i.e., reducing the negative impact on climate, environmental quality, and ecosystem services.
Research approach
AgData focuses on integrating data from various sources, including Earth observation (EO), environmental, agricultural, and other relevant datasets, in combination with advanced data technologies such as AI. The partnership builds on the results of existing and completed initiatives and projects, and explores opportunities for synergies with programs, projects, and activities related to digital and data technologies at both Member State and EU level. At European level, AgData aims to coordinate with relevant projects, partnerships, and missions, particularly those under Cluster 6 and Cluster 4 of the Horizon Europe program, as well as with the Digital Europe program, the EU Space program, and the Common Agricultural Policy. Collaboration with the agricultural and machinery sectors ensures the practical application of the solutions developed. ILVO monitors and evaluates all nationally funded cases.
Relevance/Valorization
We expect AgData to measurably improve access to data and digital technologies for both farmers and policymakers. Farmers should see improvement in production decisions, efficiency, and climate resilience due to integration of the accessible Earth observation and sensor data into Farm Management Information Systems (FMIS). For policymakers, the availability of more powerful tools for monitoring, evaluation, and impact assessment of the CAP may improve through Europe-wide data-based systems. By utilizing satellite, environmental, and agricultural data with the help of AI, the partnership stimulates innovation within conventional, organic, and agroecological systems. The ambition is to ensure that less technologically advanced companies are also included in the developments. Ultimately, AgData delivers significant added value by strengthening climate adaptation and mitigation, increasing competitiveness, and enabling better-informed policy-making at EU and member state level. ILVO is actively involved and leads the monitoring and evaluation of the performance and impact of all nationally funded use cases contributed by the beneficiaries in the partnership, ensuring that they are in line with the partnership's objectives.
Financing
EU Horizon Europe
