Challenges of smart irrigation implementation in water optimization and agricultural sustainability

Abstract

Faced with the need for more efficient and sustainable irrigation practices, this study evaluated smart irrigation technologies to optimize water resource usage, analyzing their efficiency, agricultural impacts, and implementation challenges in the current context. A systematic literature review was conducted, considering studies with empirical data on soil moisture sensors, automated control, and climate monitoring. Results demonstrated that smart technologies can reduce water consumption by up to 30% and increase agricultural productivity by up to 125%, depending on the crop and method applied. Heat maps illustrated water efficiency in different climatic zones, showing greater effectiveness in semi-arid regions, with savings reaching 78%. Despite the benefits, there are economic and technical limitations, such as high initial costs and the need for specialized infrastructure, which hinder adoption, particularly among small producers. The study concludes that smart irrigation technologies represent a feasible solution to enhance water efficiency and promote more sustainable agricultural practices, but public policies are essential to facilitate their accessibility and widespread implementation.