The universities of Talca and Beijing have partnered to address the growing water scarcity through a project utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), drones, and satellites to optimize water use in agriculture.
Led by the Research and Transfer Center in Irrigation and Agroclimatology (CITRA) at the University of Talca, the initiative employs biomathematical models to accurately estimate water consumption in crops like vineyards and corn using drones. AI processes the collected data, enabling farmers to optimize resources and enhance irrigation efficiency, crucial during droughts.
The project has shown positive results in both Chile and China, adapting to regional conditions. In Chile, it has focused on crops such as hazelnuts and olives, while in China, the emphasis has been on corn and wine grapes. A significant advancement has been the development of specific water management guidelines for European hazelnut cultivation, providing farmers with precise tools to maximize water use.
Beyond immediate agricultural benefits, the initiative is fostering talent in agricultural technology. Doctoral, master's, and undergraduate students from both institutions have actively participated, leading to scientific advancements and increased academic collaboration. This exchange has not only produced new knowledge and scientific publications but also helped train the next generation of professionals equipped with advanced technologies to tackle modern agricultural challenges.
The long-term goal is to bring these technological innovations to market, providing farmers with broader access to tools that enhance the sustainability of their operations while helping to reduce the gap between human and agricultural water consumption, which currently represents 75 to 80% of freshwater usage.