Advanced Technologies: Key to Sustainability in Agriculture & Construction
The adoption of advanced technologies in agriculture and construction is rapidly increasing. Today’s machines are more powerful, precise, and user-friendly than ever before, leading to improved efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.
Sustainability is a top priority for many businesses, and in the agricultural and construction sectors, it presents an opportunity to transform the management of natural resources for food production and community development.
CNH Industrial, a leading company in these industries, understands the importance of addressing sustainability challenges. Selin Tur, the company’s Vice President of Advanced Technologies and Innovations, and John Crowell, the Director of Sustainability, explain how advanced technologies are being adopted and developed to find viable sustainability solutions.
The Role of Advanced Technologies in Achieving Sustainability Goals
Selin Tur explains that all the technologies CNH Industrial works on have a sustainability impact. From automation and autonomous technologies to alternative fuels and electrification, these technologies increase productivity, improve efficiency, and reduce fuel consumption, thereby reducing the carbon footprint.
John Crowell adds that continuous improvement is the path to achieving sustainability goals. Technology advancements play a crucial role in decarbonizing operations, the value chain, and the product portfolio.
Addressing Sustainability Challenges with Advanced Technologies
Selin Tur emphasizes that advanced technologies can help reduce CNH Industrial’s carbon footprint and emissions while maintaining productivity. Alternative powertrains, such as fully electric, hybrid electric, and biofuels, are viable solutions for reducing emissions.
John Crowell highlights the importance of manufacturing products with low-emission materials that are recyclable at the end of their lifecycle. Precision technologies, such as variable rate irrigation systems linked to real-time weather forecasts, can improve water efficiency and ensure precise application of pesticides, thereby reducing the carbon footprint and preserving biodiversity.
Examples of Advanced Technologies Addressing Sustainability Challenges
CNH Industrial recently acquired Augmenta, a specialist in sense and act solutions. Augmenta’s multispectral camera and advanced artificial intelligence engine enable real-time adjustment of fertilizer application based on crop nitrogen levels, significantly improving efficiency for farmers.
In addition, CNH Industrial is launching the New Holland T4 Electric Power, the industry’s first all-electric light utility tractor. This battery-powered tractor provides a viable alternative fuel solution for farmers looking to decarbonize.
CNH Industrial also collaborates with Bennamann to capture, repurpose, and store fugitive methane emissions from livestock for energy use. When connected with CNH Industrial’s machinery, this technology significantly reduces emissions and supports a circular economy.
Challenges and Opportunities for Advanced Technology Adoption
John Crowell identifies the challenge of ensuring alternative fuel equipment can perform all tasks on a farm. Biomethane is an attractive solution as it delivers the same power as conventional diesel machines. Another challenge is the variability in customer expectations, as sustainability and productivity need to be maximized. CNH Industrial continuously evaluates its portfolio to meet these diverse demands.
Selin Tur emphasizes the importance of price and availability for customers when adopting advanced technologies. As accessibility to alternative fuels improves, there will be a broader range of equipment options.
Infrastructure, including recharging/fueling stations and biodigesters, remains a challenge. Training and support for operators and dealers are also crucial for a smooth transition.
Promising Technology Advancements for Sustainable Agriculture and Construction
Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies hold great potential for enhancing farming practices. Advanced sensors can improve chemical application efficiency in fields.
CNH Industrial is also exploring augmented and virtual reality solutions to accelerate product development and reduce travel through virtual design reviews and remote diagnostics.
Electrifying implements, not just vehicles, presents an opportunity for innovation and increased productivity.
Future Collaboration between Technology and Sustainability Functions
John Crowell and Selin Tur highlight the collaborative engagement between their teams. The sustainability team leads efforts to help CNH Industrial meet the Paris Climate Agreement’s objectives, while the research and development team showcases feasible technology innovations that matter to customers.
This collaboration ensures that innovation and technology programs align with the company’s sustainability goals, resulting in tangible customer benefits.
CNH Industrial’s commitment to innovation is driving the agriculture and construction industries towards a more sustainable future. Advanced technologies are essential in finding solutions that simultaneously produce food, fiber, energy, shelter, and infrastructure for a growing world population while ensuring sustainability and value for operators.
This article was originally published on TriplePundit.
