Effects of Improving Water Efficiency Through Intelligent Technologies in Dynamic Agricultural Systems

Abstract

Water scarcity poses a critical challenge to agriculture. This study explores the combined impact of smart farm technologies (SFT) and water allocation policies on the greenhouse agriculture system in Almería, a region in southeastern Spain characterized by severe water stress. A system dynamics model was developed to simulate key variables, including greenhouse area, aquifer volumes, and water prices, while accounting for constraints such as reliance on desalinated water and the costs of technological implementation. The results indicate that improving irrigation efficiency by 3% annually can stabilize aquifer volumes and sustain 75% of the initial greenhouse surface after 10–12 years, while simultaneously reducing water consumption and lowering water prices. Sensitivity analysis reveals that aquifer recharge rates below 65% lead to system collapse, highlighting the critical need for effective recharge management. The findings confirm that SFT adoption alone cannot resolve water sustainability challenges. Instead, integration with policies such as stricter groundwater regulation and investment in non-conventional water sources is essential. This research contributes to addressing the irrigation efficiency paradox by demonstrating the necessity of combining technology with policy to achieve sustainable agricultural practices. The Almería case underscores the importance of dynamic, adaptive systems to ensure resource conservation and agricultural productivity under increasing climate and water stress.