(NAFB) – A new study for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers shows the environmental benefits of precision agriculture.

The study examined the impact of various technologies on the production of row crops, broad acre crops, roots and tubers, as well as forage. The data overwhelmingly shows that precision agriculture can have a positive environmental impact in all of these areas. Precision agriculture leverages technologies to enhance sustainability through more efficient use of land, water, fuel, fertilizer and pesticides. Essentially, farmers who use precision agriculture technologies use less to grow more, reducing both cost and environmental impact.

In consultation with several environmental groups, AEM identified five areas with the most potential to impact the environment. Precision agriculture results in a four percent increase in crop production, seven percent increase in fertilizer placement efficiency, a nine percent reduction in pesticide use, a six percent reduction in fossil fuel use and a four percent reduction in water use.