Italy agriculture faces protests in Calabria and push for precision farming

Agricultural sectors in Italy are facing two distinct developments: widespread protests in Calabria and a push for technological modernization.

In Calabria, the Movimento Popolare Nazionale and several agricultural associations have launched a mobilization titled “L’Italia scende in piazza”. Starting September 28, protesters will hold demonstrations in Rosarno, Crotone, Pizzo Calabro, Firmo, and Cariati, followed by a permanent protest in Davoli Marina. The movement aims to culminate in a large national demonstration in Cosenza on October 10. Key grievances include high fuel costs, the need for better protection of Italian products against non-compliant imports, disproportionate pricing between producers and consumers, and uncontrolled wildlife damaging crops.

Simultaneously, Confagricoltura is promoting the adoption of precision farming to improve sustainability and productivity. At the Bex–Beyond Exploration Expo in Rimini, experts discussed using satellite data, drones, and sensors to enhance food security. Currently, only 10% of Italian agricultural land utilizes precision farming techniques. However, data from the European Space Agency suggests that every euro invested in satellite technology can generate up to 11 euros in value throughout the agri-food chain. Regions like Emilia-Romagna and Lombardia lead in adoption, with 35% using space-derived technologies.