ADVANCING SOIL HEALTH AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE THROUGH AGROECOLOGICAL PRACTICES AND SMART FARMING TECHNOLOGIES

Abstract

This study will analyze how agroecological practices combined with smart technologies of farming can improve soil health and climate resilience.  Field trials explored interventions which included cover cropping, mulching, crop rotation and precision irrigation using a mixed-method experimental design. IoT-based sensors and AI-driven decision support were in support of these.  Quantitative analyses were done on soil organic carbon, the levels of nitrogen, the biomass of the microorganisms, the rate of infiltration, and the measurements of climatic resilience, including water retention and the and stability of the yields.  The data were analysed via statistical testing, predictive modelling and Monte Carlo simulations. Qualitative insights were obtained through Farmer questionnaires and focus group talks.  The results showed that agroecological practices significantly enhanced the soil fertility, water retention and microbial activity, and smart technology significantly enhanced efficiency in irrigation and nutrient management.  The predictive models revealed that combined methods are robust to operate in numerous weather conditions. They have the ability to cushion against variation in rainfall and maintain yields.  The farmers claimed they would employ sustainable methods more when they had access to technology and participatory structures.  The joint study revealed that the application of digital tools and ecological knowledge provides synergistic benefits and the environment, as well as the economy, are enhanced.  These findings demonstrate that agroecological-smart farming techniques could be applied on a bigger scale to make food production more sustainable and assist people in adjusting to climate change.