Epsilon Open Archive

Abstract

Modern crop farming is at present (1990) causing increasing environmental pollution. The working environment in field operations is also regarded to be increasingly monotonous. This is caused by modern crop farming methods which are stereotype in many respects and where a field is treated as a homogeneous unit. The present technology assessment essay reviews possibilities and limitations concerning technical progress in modern crop farming. The study is based on the assumption that crop farming methods used today basically will be used during coming twenty-year period. The study is mainly based on a literature review. Future effects of more accurate crop farming technology are estimated on the basis of this review. The study deals wit four different accuracy levels and each crop farming operation is carried out with a certain accuracy for each level (ranging from 0.005 to 5 hectares. The possible effects of using driverless field vehicles are also described. Results indicate that there is justification to be more accurate in all crop farming operations. The study finally gives some examples of appropriate technical development and research in future crop farming.