Harnessing digitalisation for sustainable agriculture and resilient rural communities: new EESC study
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
- Connected rural areas
- Prosperous rural areas
- Agriculture and food
- Digital
A newly published study by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) explores digitalisation opportunities and challenges for reducing GHG emissions from agriculture. It reveals that while digital tools can enhance sustainable practices, they transform rural labour markets, creating demand for new digital skills, but also displacing low-skilled jobs.
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The study sets out recommendations to support digital transformation, rural livelihoods and community sustainability:
- Invest in dual infrastructure targeted at rural digital access and capacity building;
- Provide tailored financing, training and advisory support for smaller rural actors and young people;
- Establish strong data-governance frameworks to ensure fairness, sovereignty and transparency.
Although centred on agriculture, the lessons carry wider rural relevance: digital connectivity and tools can transform service delivery, labour markets and territorial inclusion beyond farms. For example, they help maintain jobs, support youth migration choices and enhance local innovation ecosystems.
The study highlights how digital tools – from IoT sensors to decision-support platforms – can reduce resource use, boost productivity and strengthen local economies. Yet, it warns that smaller farms and enterprises risk being left behind unless tailored support is in place. Case studies from Estonia, Germany, Romania, and Spain highlight the importance of governance frameworks, farm structures, and political commitment.
Explore the latest Rural Pact resources on the topics of digitalisation and agriculture.