Digital and Green Technological Drivers of Transformation in the Agri-Food Sector

TL;DR

This paper reviews how digital and green technologies are transforming the agri-food sector to make it more sustainable and resilient.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive synthesis of digital and green technological drivers and their integration with policy frameworks in agri-food systems.

Findings

Digital technologies like precision agriculture and AI improve resource efficiency and traceability in food systems.

Green technologies and circular economy practices help reduce environmental impacts in food production and waste management.

Policy frameworks such as the European Green Deal guide the adoption of sustainable technologies in agriculture.

Abstract

The agri-food sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the combined pressures of climate change, resource scarcity, policy frameworks, and evolving consumer expectations. In this context, digital and green technologies have emerged as key enablers of more sustainable, transparent, and resilient food systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the conceptual foundations, technological drivers, and policy frameworks shaping the digital and green transition of the agri-food sector. Digital technologies—including precision agriculture, sensing and data acquisition systems, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data platforms—are examined in relation to their role in improving resource-use efficiency, traceability, and decision-making across the food value chain. In parallel, green technologies and sustainable practices in food production, processing, and waste management are discussed, with emphasis on resource optimization, circular economy approaches, and environmental impact reduction. This review further highlights the role of European and global policy frameworks, such as the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork strategy, in steering technological adoption and aligning innovation with sustainability objectives. By synthesizing technological, environmental, and policy perspectives, this work underscores the importance of integrated digital–green strategies for achieving long-term sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience in agri-food systems.

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