Optimal use of an agricultural robot in an arable crop rotation: a case study from the Netherlands

Abstract

Agricultural robots present an opportunity to strengthen agrifood systems by addressing labour shortages and reducing CO2 emissions. This study proposes a method to investigate the potential use of an agricultural robot (AGR) based on a case study on a typical high-tech Dutch farm that implements both an AGR and a conventional tractor (TRC) on a single farm of 200 ha in the region of Oldambt. Five crops were chosen. Price of labor and fuel as well as time needed for remote supervision of AGR were found to be critical factors determining the benefit and use of the AGR.