The UK is set to be a pilot location for a European potato project designed to validate the impact of regenerative farming practices.

The project, led by artificial intelligence pioneer Cropin, is thought to be the first to use AI and “big data” to verify regenerative practices.

The project is known as First (Field Intelligence for Regenerative Agriculture and Sustainability) Potato. 

See also: Variety choice and targeted N are vital for Scottish grower’s potato profit

It will pull together real-time data from sensors, satellite imagery, weather stations and computer models to deliver specific daily advisories to growers, tailored to soil and climate conditions.

By optimising irrigation and input usage, Cropin’s precision technology will help farmers manage the tricky triangle of optimal yield, reduced inputs and the vital quality consistency.

Commercial partnerships

The company is actively engaging in commercial partnerships and pilot deployments across Europe and the UK and is in advanced discussions with leading agri-food brands, says Krishna Kumar, chief executive and founder of Cropin.

The project brings together a consortium of food processors, research institutions and sustainability leaders to accelerate the transition from conventional to regenerative practice.

“This deployment will deliver collective benefits.

“Growers enhance their profitability, brands meet their sustainability targets, and regenerative practices benefit the planet.

“It’s a win-win for the entire agri-food ecosystem,” says Krishna.

“As regenerative agriculture gains momentum, the absence of verifiable, measurable outcomes poses a real challenge to meaningful, scalable impact.”

“Without robust digital systems, farmers struggle to consistently uphold regenerative principles.

“Through AI, data intelligence and real-time decision-support, we are bridging this critical gap,” says Krishna.