In the new era of the global scientific and technological revolution, agricultural science and technology emerge as the central focus of this transformative movement.
The worldwide agricultural science and technology revolution is rapidly advancing, leading to the gradual phasing out of traditional agricultural practices while fostering the rapid growth of modern agriculture.
Notably, agricultural modernization driven by science and technology in developed countries is progressing at an accelerated pace. Consequently, the development goals, ideas, and measures employed in modern agriculture are undergoing subtle yet significant changes.
Modern agriculture, which evolved during the period of capitalist industrialization, refers to agriculture developed on the foundations of modern industry and modern science and technology.
Its defining characteristic lies in the extensive application of modern science and technology, transitioning from conforming to nature to consciously utilizing and transforming nature. As a result, it has become a scientifically-driven form of agriculture.
Modern agriculture boasts high comprehensive productivity, including elevated land output rates and labor productivity. Agriculture has transformed into an industry that yields substantial economic benefits and exhibits notable market competitiveness. This transformation serves as a crucial benchmark for assessing the level of development within modern agriculture.
In an era marked by rapid technological advancement and continuous population growth, modern agriculture plays a vital role on a global scale. It not only needs to meet the ever-increasing demand for food but also confronts global challenges such as resource scarcity, environmental pollution, and climate change.
To achieve sustainable development, modern agriculture must adopt innovative methods and technologies aimed at enhancing yields, conserving resources, and minimizing environmental impact.
On one hand, modern agriculture is achieved through the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, such as precision agriculture, genetic improvement, and agricultural mechanization.
These advancements enhance crop yield and farming efficiency. Precision agriculture utilizes GPS and remote sensing technology to develop optimal strategies for fertilization, irrigation, and pest control.
Genetic improvements have endowed crops with the ability to thrive in harsh environments while providing desired traits such as pest and disease resistance, drought tolerance, and high yields. Agricultural mechanization reduces the physical labor required by farmers and improves the efficiency and quality of agricultural production.
On the other hand, modern agriculture is dedicated to reducing resource waste and environmental damage. Through scientific land management and the rational utilization of water resources and chemical fertilizers, modern agriculture effectively reduces resource consumption.
The management and recycling of agricultural waste have also emerged as critical areas of focus within the development of modern agriculture. Examples include the utilization of crop straw and livestock manure to produce organic fertilizers and bioenergy.
Furthermore, the rise of ecological agriculture and organic farming emphasizes the natural growth of crops and environmentally friendly agricultural management practices. These approaches aid in reducing the adverse impact of agriculture on ecosystems.
The development trajectory of modern agriculture encompasses technological innovation, sustainable development, smart agriculture, globalization, and branding.
These trends facilitate the transformation and upgrading of modern agriculture, enhancing the efficiency, quality, and sustainability of agricultural production. Moreover, they address the increasing demand for high-quality, healthy, safe, and environmentally friendly agricultural products.
Simultaneously, modern agriculture must actively engage in international agricultural cooperation, reinforcing technical and trade exchanges while expanding international markets. By doing so, it can foster global partnerships and collaborations that propel the sector forward.