CONNECTIVITY IN AGRICULTURE: BARRIERS AND BENEFITS

Abstract

This work discussed the limiting factors of the diffusion of internet connectivity in agriculture, as well as its importance, mainly with regard to the enabling aspects of digital agriculture (4.0). It began with a discussion of the current state of technology and its importance for economic development, how agriculture is affected by the availability of internet connectivity, as well as the broader concept of the Internet of Things (IoT). The impacts of connectivity on the rural economy proved to go far beyond financial results, also affecting social (such as distance education), cultural and ecological aspects. The work took as a source of data the collection of information via form on the internet, directed to precision agriculture professionals; as well as telephone interviews with professionals with knowledge on the subject: university professors, specialized consultants and executives from related areas. The data analysis methodology was the elaboration of graphs and tables interpreted in the light of the observations made in the interviews. The operators' business model was identified as the greatest limitation for the expansion of connectivity. It was also verified that the potential return presented by connectivity projects far exceeds the investments, which justifies private investments by producers.