Food's Future: Sustainability and Agricultural Robotics

Sindiso Mpenyu Nleya^1*Siqabukile Ndlovu²Mthulisi Velempini³

• ¹Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga 0727, Polokwane, South Africa,, Polokwane, South Africa
• ²National University of Science and Technology Faculty of Engineering, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
• ³University of Limpopo, Mankweng, South Africa

The global food system is under increasing pressure from population growth, climate change, resource constraints, and persistent food loss. These challenges undermine food security and threaten progress toward long-term sustainability goals set by international organizations. Addressing them requires concrete, forward-looking innovations aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2, which aims to eliminate hunger. This paper explores how agricultural robotics can support the transition to more resilient and sustainable food systems, especially where traditional practices are no longer sufficient. It integrates perspectives from technology, sustainability, and policy to link global priorities with local realities. Our discussion is organized around five interconnected dimensions. First, a crisis-framing perspective illustrates why food system reform has become urgent and how current pressures correspond with SDG objectives. Second, we present a simple taxonomy that classifies agricultural robots by domain and function while noting ongoing technical challenges such as interoperability. Third, we examine the integration of robotics with precision agriculture, Internet of Things platforms, artificial intelligence, and big data systems. Together, these technologies enable more autonomous field operations and support faster, data-driven decision making. The fourth dimension evaluates the environmental, economic, and social implications of agricultural robotics. Potential benefits include reduced chemical use, improved water efficiency, enhanced soil health, more efficient labor allocation, and expanded employment opportunities in rural and remote regions. Finally, we review global case studies from developed contexts such as Australia and the United States and emerging economies including Brazil, India, and China. Across these settings, agricultural robotics consistently improve productivity, reduce waste, and promote more efficient resource use. These gains contribute not only to farm-level outcomes but also to broader environmental stewardship and socio-economic development. Despite this promise, widespread adoption remains challenging. High upfront costs, limited technical capacity, interoperability issues, and ethical concerns surrounding data governance and automation continue to impede progress. Overcoming these barriers is essential for realizing the full potential of robotics in reshaping global food systems and advancing a more sustainable future.