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Precision Farming: Barriers of Variable Rate Technology Adoption in Italy

Author

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  • Margherita Masi

    (Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna—Alma Mater Studiorum, 40064 Bologna, Italy)

  • Jorgelina Di Pasquale

    (Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy)

  • Yari Vecchio

    (Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna—Alma Mater Studiorum, 40064 Bologna, Italy)

  • Fabian Capitanio

    (Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80121 Napoli, Italy)

Abstract

Research dealing with the adoption of various precision agriculture technologies has shown that guidance and recording tools are more widespread than reactive ones (such as variable rate technology), with much lower utilization rates in European case studies. This study aims to analyze the propensity to innovate variable rate technologies among young Italian farmers. A cluster analysis was carried out revealing four groups. The first two groups represent non-adopters who think technological innovation is very complex from a technical point of view, as well as not very accessible as capital-intensive technology. The third and fourth groups represent adopters. The third reports an early level of adoption, still considering the cost of access a major barrier to technology implementation. The fourth, on the other hand, shows a more intensive level and considers the lack of institutional support a major limitation. The cluster with the most intensive adoption is characterized by the youngest age group, the farms with the largest size, and a prevalence of female entrepreneurs. The need for management training in day-to-day business operations upon adoption is detected for all groups. This paper identified relevant drivers and barriers in characterizing the adopting farm of variable rate technologies. Results may offer insights to the policy maker to better calibrate support interventions.

Suggested Citation

  • Margherita Masi & Jorgelina Di Pasquale & Yari Vecchio & Fabian Capitanio, 2023. "Precision Farming: Barriers of Variable Rate Technology Adoption in Italy," Land, MDPI, vol. 12(5), pages 1-16, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:12:y:2023:i:5:p:1084-:d:1149507
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    References listed on IDEAS

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