Summary
This narrative review synthesises evidence on the role of digital tools and decision support systems in supporting agroecological farming transitions. Whilst digital solutions demonstrate significant potential for enhancing soil and water management, integrated pest management, and resource efficiency, adoption remains constrained by low digital literacy, inadequate infrastructure, and concerns about real-world effectiveness. The authors conclude that realising this potential requires a holistic approach integrating technology with hands-on training, policy support, and continued empirical research.
UK applicability
The findings on digital literacy barriers and infrastructure gaps are relevant to UK farming contexts, where adoption of decision support systems varies widely across farm sizes and regions. Policy recommendations on training and infrastructure investment could inform UK agricultural extension services and digital inclusion strategies for rural communities.
Key measures
Qualitative assessment of digital tool adoption barriers (digital literacy, infrastructure, real-world effectiveness); benefits for soil management, water management, integrated pest management, and resource use efficiency
Outcomes reported
The study examined the benefits, challenges, and practical implementations of digital tools and decision support systems in agroecological farming through literature review and case study analysis. Findings addressed adoption barriers, effectiveness in soil and water management, pest control, and resource efficiency, alongside constraints such as digital literacy and infrastructure gaps.
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