Agricultural Drones in Romania in the Context of European Sustainable Agriculture

Drone technology has applications in many sectors of activity, including agriculture. In this area, our research aims to provide an answer regarding the contribution of drones to ensuring sustainable agriculture in Europe and, especially in Romania. The research combines the quantitative method of analyzing statistical data on the drone market in agriculture with the qualitative method of analysis aimed at identifying the advantages of using drones, existing practices and the barriers manifested. The results of the research indicate a lower degree of use of drones in European agriculture compared to other regions of the world, as well as the difference in use between Western European countries and those in Central and Eastern Europe. In the case of Romania, the research highlights the increase in interest in the use of drones, mainly due to the advantages related to the application of agricultural treatments, but also results that contribute to the sustainability of agricultural activities. On the other hand, a series of limits are identified in the use of drones in agriculture, limits that we believe can mitigated through a series of measures related to the involvement and collaboration of government institutions and production companies.