The digital revolution is not only impacting the world but also towns and villages. Their survival depends on it. Innovative solutions, including Big Data and the Internet of Things (IoT), are reaching rural areas in order to improve their socio-economic and environmental conditions.

What are SMART VILLAGES AND SMART TOWNS?

Smart villages are about shifting the paradigm so that small rural communities are no longer considered recipients of government aid but instead become productive centers and engines of change. This is possible through digitalization of villages.

Potential customers can be found anywhere using the internet and related technologies. This improves efficiency and productivity. It also offers better customer service, job opportunities, and increases customer satisfaction. The digital divide is the main problem. It's difficult to access the internet in large cities and it's not easy for people to learn the skills they need.




FACTORS IN RURAL CHANGE

Rural development is possible because of a number of broad-based changes. These communities will need to gain the momentum they require.

Technological advancements

We will also discuss the availability of the internet and other new technologies. Here we will talk about precision farming techniques that improve crop yields as well as the use water and soil. Applied biotechnology contributes to the development of new, healthier crops and pest control.

Environmental changes

Many rural areas are experiencing climate change, which is affecting biodiversity and crops, and threatening ecosystems and species. The rural population is responsible for sustainable resource management and protection.

Demographic changes

The rise in living costs in big cities and the availability of teleworking have slowed the abandonment in rural areas. On the one hand, it has led to a return of young people to villages where they can set up better quality businesses or work.

Economic changes

According to the Center for Sustainable Business of the Stern School of Business (New York University), global consumer trends indicate an unstoppable increase in organic agriculture and sustainable products. Their sales are growing at five-folds the rate of non sustainable products. This creates more value for rural production.

Political changes

Rural development depends on the ability of national, local and supranational governments to support infrastructure and new businesses through tax exemptions or funding. The European Network for Rural Development is an example of this, upon which the Smart Rural 21 programme is based.

RURAL INNOVATION: TECHNOLOGIES TO A SMART VILLAGE

These new technologies will help rural communities develop.

IoT: The Internet of Things, also known as the Internet of Things, is closely linked to smart cities but can also be used in rural areas. Sensors can be used to make crops more competitive, or to provide education and healthcare in remote areas.

Artificial intelligence: The adoption of artificial intelligence systems can directly improve crops and the environment, as well as optimize health services and infrastructure.

Big Data: The huge amount of data generated today (Big Data) allows for changes in climate to easily be analyzed along with water consumption, livestock movements and the growth of pastures, forests and other important information.

Drones: Drones can automatically monitor hectares of land, collecting data about temperature, crop status, animal movements, and controlling pest spread.




Blockchain: According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, blockchain technology can be used in order to improve efficiency, transparency and traceability of agricultural supply chains and make them more sustainable and productive.

Nanomaterials: The use of smart materials can enhance sensors, apply fertilizers, pesticides, and protect layers that improve food safety, eliminate excess, and mitigate the effects of climate changes on plants.

Robots: From autonomous tractors that don't need a driver, to robots capable picking delicate fruits one-by-one without damaging them. The introduction of robots into rural areas is driving efficiency and sustainability.