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The role of digital/4.0 technologies in the agri-biodiversity transition: Potential pathways and lessons from the European Union

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  • Parra-López, Carlos
  • Carmona-Torres, Carmen

Abstract

The intensification of agriculture is a primary driver of global biodiversity decline. In response, the European Union (EU) is promoting a transition towards sustainable, biodiversity-friendly agriculture. This article explores how digital/4.0 technologies — such as remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology — can support this transition, based on a scoping thematic literature review of 127 articles published between 2021 and 2025. The analysis identifies three potential pathways: (1) mitigating the negative impacts of intensive farming, (2) enhancing habitat and species monitoring, and (3) strengthening the knowledge base for policy and decision-making. We link these technological opportunities to EU policy objectives, highlighting the critical interplay between innovation and regulation. However, significant technical, socio-economic and environmental challenges, including data interoperability, the digital divide and potential rebound effects, hinder widespread adoption. The primary contribution of this paper is its synthesis of the technology–policy nexus in the agri-biodiversity transition, offering a structured framework for both theoretical understanding and practical application. In conclusion, realising the potential of these technologies requires interdisciplinary collaboration, targeted policy support and proactive risk management, ensuring that technological advancements genuinely contribute to biodiversity conservation. The EU's experience can inform future policies by providing insights for reconciling agricultural production with biodiversity on a global scale.

Suggested Citation

  • Parra-López, Carlos & Carmona-Torres, Carmen, 2026. "The role of digital/4.0 technologies in the agri-biodiversity transition: Potential pathways and lessons from the European Union," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 85(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:85:y:2026:i:c:s0160791x25003483
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2025.103158
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