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Singapore's food security is a top priority, and a groundbreaking development from local scientists could be a significant step towards ensuring a stable and resilient food supply. Researchers at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) have developed a sophisticated 'digital twin' technology, initially focused on strawberry farms, that promises to revolutionise agricultural practices and accelerate innovation.

What is a Digital Twin?

Imagine a virtual replica of a real-world farm, complete with detailed data on soil conditions, weather patterns, plant health, and even pest activity. That's essentially what a digital twin is. This virtual environment allows scientists and farmers to simulate different scenarios, test new strategies, and optimise operations—all without impacting the actual farm.

Strawberry Farms as the Starting Point

The initial focus on strawberry farms isn't arbitrary. Strawberry cultivation is particularly sensitive to environmental factors and requires precise management. The digital twin technology allows for a granular level of analysis and prediction, leading to more efficient resource allocation and improved yields. As Daeun Choi, the lead researcher and an assistant professor of agricultural and biological engineering at UF/IFAS, explained to Phys.org, “The study shows that a realistic digital twin can jump-start AI tool development for strawberry farms, enabling faster, more cost-effective robotics innovation.”

Boosting AI and Robotics in Agriculture

The real power of the digital twin lies in its ability to accelerate the development and deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics in agriculture. By simulating various conditions and outcomes within the virtual environment, researchers can train AI algorithms and test robotic solutions more quickly and efficiently. This reduces the time and cost associated with traditional trial-and-error methods. Imagine robots autonomously monitoring plant health, detecting diseases early, and applying targeted treatments – all guided by AI insights derived from the digital twin.

Beyond Strawberries: A Wider Impact on Singapore's Food Security

While the initial application is focused on strawberries, the potential of this technology extends far beyond. It can be adapted to simulate and optimise a wide range of agricultural operations, including vegetable farming, aquaculture, and even vertical farming—all of which are crucial components of Singapore’s “30 by 30” goal to locally produce 30% of its nutritional needs by 2030.

Key Benefits of Digital Twin Technology for Singapore's Farms:

• Improved Crop Yields: Optimised resource allocation and proactive disease management.
• Reduced Costs: Faster AI and robotics development, minimising trial-and-error expenses.
• Enhanced Sustainability: Precision farming techniques reduce waste and environmental impact.
• Increased Resilience: Better preparedness for climate change and other disruptions.

This innovative 'digital twin' technology represents a crucial investment in Singapore's future food security, paving the way for a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient agricultural sector. It’s a testament to the power of technology in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time – ensuring access to safe and affordable food for all.