The image shows an Internet of Things (IoT) architecture with an IoT gateway. It highlights the communication flow between various IoT sensors and the cloud using wireless technologies such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) or LoRa (Long Range).

The IoT architecture shown in the image can be effectively applied to a digitally regulated drip irrigation system. In such a system, sensors are deployed in the field to monitor critical environmental conditions, such as soil moisture and temperature.

Here is how each component works in a drip irrigation system: 

• Sensors: soil moisture and temperature sensors are placed near plants to collect real-time data on environmental conditions. The data help determine when and how much water plants need, optimizing water use.  

• IoT Gateway: acts as a central node, collecting data from sensors. In the case of a large farm, multiple gateways may be needed. The gateway then transmits data to a cloud platform using wireless protocols (such as BLE, LoRa or WiFi).  

• Router: enables transmission of data collected by the gateway over the Internet to the cloud for real-time monitoring and analysis. 

• Cloud platform: The cloud stores and analyzes data from the sensors, enabling real-time decisions and control. The system can automatically activate irrigation based on moisture levels detected by the sensors. Farmers can monitor the entire process remotely via an app on their cell phones or a web platform on their PCs.  

Quantifying the benefits 

With digital regulation, these systems can save between 30 and 50 percent of irrigation water compared to traditional methods. By ensuring that water is delivered efficiently, evaporation and excess water are minimized. In regions increasingly vulnerable to drought due to climate change, the adoption of such systems can dramatically reduce the effects of water shortages.  

Remote monitoring and control 

Farmers can monitor and manage their irrigation systems remotely, using smartphones or network-connected devices. This real-time monitoring allows continuous control over water use, soil health and overall system performance, even from miles away. Remote control also increases irrigation accuracy, ensuring that crops remain well cared for without the need for constant manual labor.  

Crop types and effectiveness 

Drip irrigation systems have proven particularly effective for high-value crops such as fruits (e.g., grapes, citrus), leafy vegetables (e.g., lettuce, spinach), and some cereals. These crops benefit from precise water distribution, which not only conserves resources but also improves the quality and quantity of yields and reduces water stress.  

Countries on the cutting edge 

Countries such as Israel, Spain, and the United States were among the first to adopt digitally regulated drip irrigation systems. In Israel, for example, drip irrigation is widely used in various crops, including orchards and vineyards, making it one of the most water-efficient countries in the world. Spain also uses these systems in olive and almond production, helping to conserve water in arid regions.  

Economic and environmental benefits 

The synergy between digital technologies and green solutions brings significant economic benefits to farmers. By optimizing water use and improving crop health, farmers can increase yields while reducing costs. In addition, these systems align with global sustainability goals by conserving vital resources such as water and energy, contributing to long-term agricultural productivity.  

Example of analysis for 10 hectares of cultivation: 

• Traditional system: assume 4-6 working hours per day for irrigation activities. 

• Automated system: work can be reduced to 1-2 hours per week, depending on the system. 

Work reduction: 

• Traditional total: 35 hours/week (5 hours/day × 7 days) 
• Automatic total: 1.5 hours/week (average) 
• Reduction: about 95% of work devoted to irrigation tasks. 

Cost estimation and scalability  

The cost of a digitally regulated drip irrigation system can vary depending on the area of land to be irrigated and the complexity of the digital instruments used. On average, for a 1-hectare farm, a basic system with sensors, control units and necessary infrastructure can range between 2,000 and 3,500 euros. For larger farms, such as 10 hectares, the initial cost can range from 15,000 to 25,000 euros, depending on the level of automation and the quality of the hardware installed.  

As the size of the cultivated area increases, so do costs, but larger systems also lead to more than proportional savings through economies of scale in the optimized use of water and energy. Savings on water, energy and labor, along with increased crop yields, usually provide a return on investment within 2-5 years.  

Conclusion: a smarter, greener future 

The digitally regulated drip irrigation system is a shining example of how digital and green technologies can work together to create more efficient and sustainable solutions. In the face of growing challenges such as water scarcity, energy consumption, and food security, innovations like these are crucial for a more sustainable future. By harnessing the synergy between digital and green, we can pave the way for smarter and greener agricultural practices around the world.