Published Year: 2023
Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market - A Global and Regional Analysis: Focus on Application,
The global agriculture soil sampling and testing market was valued at $3.76 billion in 2022...
Market Research Report
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Global Digital Soil Mapping Platforms and Applications Market Overview
The global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market was valued at $228.2 million in 2023 and is expected to reach $798.5 million by 2034, with a CAGR of 12.16% from 2024 to 2034. The market is in a growth phase and is projected to experience significant expansion. Market players investing in research, infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships are anticipated to capitalize on the increasing demand for digital soil mapping, driven by advancements in technology and development in soil analysis methods, over the forecast period from 2024 to 2034.
Introduction of Digital Soil Mapping
Digital soil mapping platforms and applications utilize advanced technologies to analyze and map soil properties accurately and efficiently. These platforms include technologies such as drone scouting, mobile scouting, satellite imagery, and other innovative methods. Drone scouting employs drones equipped with sensors to collect high-resolution data on soil conditions. Mobile scouting uses mobile devices and applications for on-the-go soil data collection, while satellite imagery provides large-scale, detailed soil analysis from space. These digital soil mapping technologies play a crucial role in improving agricultural productivity and sustainability by providing real-time, precise soil health assessments. The data collected helps optimize crop yields, enhance resource use efficiency, and support sustainable land management practices. By integrating these advanced technologies, the environmental impact of agricultural activities can be significantly reduced, leading to more sustainable farming practices and better soil health management.
Market Introduction
The global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market is pivotal for modern agriculture, environmental management, and land use planning. Digital soil mapping platforms utilize a range of advanced methods, including drone scouting, mobile scouting, and satellite imagery, to collect and analyze soil data. The study covers various end-user applications, such as agribusiness companies, agricultural cooperatives, and government and research institutes. These platforms are essential tools for these end-users to enhance crop yields, manage soil health, and conduct sustainable agricultural research. Based on technology, the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market is segmented into drone scouting, which employs drones equipped with sensors for high-resolution data collection; mobile scouting, which uses mobile devices and applications for on-the-go soil data gathering; and satellite imagery, which provides large-scale, detailed soil analysis from space. Other innovative technologies also contribute to this market, offering various approaches for soil data collection and analysis. The continuous advancements in remote sensing, data analytics, and IoT technologies are driving the evolution of this market, making it an indispensable component of sustainable agriculture and effective land management practices.
Industrial Impact
The industrial impact of digital soil mapping platforms and applications spans agriculture, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability. Advances in drone scouting, mobile scouting, and satellite imagery enhance the precision and efficiency of soil analysis, promoting collaborations between agritech companies and technology firms. This focus on improving soil health and optimizing crop yields aligns with global sustainability goals, promoting the adoption of digital soil mapping solutions. These technologies support informed decision-making, better resource management, and increased agricultural productivity, thereby contributing to sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation.
The key players operating in the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market include SoilOptix, Veris Technologies, Inc., Crop Nutrition Laboratory Services Ltd., SMARTCLOUDFARMING, Esri, Trimble Inc., Ag Leader Technology, CropX inc, AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc, Taranis, EarthOptics, Teralytic, Corteva, EOS Data Analytics, Inc., and Arable Labs, Inc., among others. These companies are focusing on strategic partnerships, collaborations, and acquisitions to enhance their product offerings and expand their market presence.
Market Segmentation:
Segmentation 1: by Application
• Agriculture Cooperatives
• Government and Research Institutes
• Agribusiness Companies
• Others
Others Segment to Dominate Global Digital Soil Mapping Platforms and Applications Market (by Application)
The global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market sees significant contributions from the others segment, which encompasses a diverse range of stakeholders including educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and independent consultants. From 2024 to 2034, this segment is expected to play a crucial role in the widespread adoption and innovation of digital soil mapping technologies. Educational institutions leverage DSM for research and training, equipping the next generation of agricultural scientists with cutting-edge tools.
Non-profit organizations use DSM to promote sustainable farming practices and support smallholder farmers by providing accessible soil health data. The others segment contributes to the overall growth and development of the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market by fostering knowledge dissemination, encouraging sustainable practices, and providing tailored solutions to a broad array of agricultural stakeholders. This diversity in application and user base shows the versatility and essential nature of digital soil mapping in modern agriculture.
Segmentation 2: by Product Type
• Drone Scouting
• Mobile Scouting
• Satellite Imagery
• Others
Mobile Scouting to Dominate Global Digital Soil Mapping Platforms and Applications Market (by Product Type)
The global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market is dominated by the mobile scouting segment, which is expected to maintain its leading position from 2024 to 2034. Mobile scouting technology is extensively utilized for its convenience and accuracy in soil data collection and analysis.
Moreover, the mobile scouting segment accounts for a substantial portion of the global adoption of digital soil mapping technologies. Companies are not only expanding their technological capabilities but also integrating advanced features such as real-time data analytics and user-friendly mobile interfaces. This focus on enhancing mobile scouting solutions is crucial for strengthening their market positions and addressing the growing demand for efficient soil mapping in agriculture and environmental management.
Segmentation 3: by Region
• North America: U.S., Canada, and Mexico
• Europe: Germany, France, Netherlands, Denmark, U.K., and Rest-of-Europe
• Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia and New Zealand, and Rest-of-Asia-Pacific
• Rest-of-the-World: Middle East and Africa and South America
The North America region dominated the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market and is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period from 2024 to 2034. The region is home to multiple leading companies, including Trimble Inc., Deere & Company, and Ag Leader Technology.
Moreover, North America accounts for a significant portion of the total global adoption of digital soil mapping technologies. Various digital soil mapping companies, such as Trimble, John Deere, and Ag Leader, have a strong presence in North America and are further expanding their technological capabilities to enhance their market positions in the competitive global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market.
Recent Developments in the Global Digital Soil Mapping Platforms and Applications Market
• In February 2024, EOS Data Analytics (EOSDA) announced a collaboration with AgriProve, Australia’s leading soiltech carbon developer, to enhance soil organic carbon (SOC) monitoring using AI-powered satellite imagery. This collaboration is supported by the Australian government with a $6.0 million grant. The collaboration aims to create detailed soil carbon maps and predictive models, offering farmers invaluable insights for optimizing land management practices and improving soil and climate resilience.
• In January 2024, EarthOptics surpassed one million acres of physically mapped farmland and ranch land, positioning its SoilMapper platform as a market leader in comprehensive soil intelligence. Since 2021, the company has mapped land across four continents and 45 U.S. states, utilizing advanced technologies such as ground penetrating radar and electromagnetic induction scanning.
• In April 2023, Corteva announced a partnership with EOS Data Analytics (EOSDA) in Ukraine to enhance research on growing sunflower and corn hybrids, optimize crop protection products, and improve overall agricultural productivity. By utilizing EOSDA's AI-powered satellite imagery analytics, Corteva would provide precise recommendations for farmers, helping them achieve high yields under various conditions.
• In December 2022, Arable Labs, Inc. announced the release of its advanced crop intelligence platform, the Arable Mark 3 in-field sensing device. This innovative device, developed in partnership with Bould Design, integrates weather, plant, soil, and irrigation flow measurements into a single system, providing real-time, contextualized crop imagery through Arable Vision.
• In October 2021, Taranis and Albo Climate announced a partnership to develop AI-powered remote sensing technology for soil carbon verification in row crops. This collaboration aims to reduce the high costs of verifying soil organic carbon (SOC) and streamline the process for farmers to enter carbon credit markets.
Demand - Drivers, Limitations, and Opportunities
Market Demand: Advancement in Geographic Information Technology (GIS)
A significant trend in the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market is the application of GIS, which creates geographically referenced soil databases using environmental features and field surveys. Remote sensing technologies generate these DSM datasets, reducing the need for labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive traditional soil surveys. Advancements in GIS software have minimized the need for extensive fieldwork. Soil scientists now use digital imagery on tablets or handheld computers, with much of the work done by remote sensing technologies, allowing them to efficiently collect soil samples or photographs, thus reducing costs and improving efficiency.
Additionally, governments and organizations worldwide are increasingly focusing on enhancing digital soil mapping capabilities through initiatives. For instance, in September 2022, the Global Soil Partnership (GSP) conducted training on digital soil mapping (DSM) in Bugesera, Rwanda, aimed at GIS experts and soil scientists. Financed by the China International Centre for Economic and Technical Exchanges and the China International Development Cooperation Agency, this workshop covered the complete DSM cycle from data management to predictive mapping. The goal is to strengthen Rwanda's DSM capacity and foster collaboration among national soil data institutions. The GSP's capacity development program has trained over 700 national experts worldwide, emphasizing the growing global focus on GIS advancements in digital soil mapping.
Moreover, these advancements in GIS technology have had a profound impact on the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market by making the process more efficient, cost-effective, and accessible. The reduction in extensive field surveys, combined with the integration of remote sensing technologies and digital tools, has streamlined soil data collection and analysis. This technological progress is driving increased adoption of DSM practices, enhancing soil management strategies, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices globally.
Market Challenge: High Initial Costs and Technical Complexity
The high costs associated with soil data collection and analysis significantly impact the global demand for digital soil mapping (DSM). While DSM offers numerous benefits, such as improved land use planning and enhanced agricultural productivity, it requires substantial investment in advanced technologies and expertise. This expense can be prohibitive, particularly for developing countries, where budgetary constraints limit the uptake of such technologically advanced methods. Continuous monitoring and updating of soil information to maintain map accuracy further escalate costs, creating a barrier to accessibility and decreasing global demand. This situation is especially pronounced in low-income countries where financial limitations hinder the adoption of cost-intensive soil mapping methods.
Moreover, the technical complexity of DSM presents a significant barrier. The process integrates various technologies, including remote sensing, GIS, and advanced statistical models, to create accurate soil maps. This requires specialized knowledge in both soil science and digital mapping technologies, which many farmers or local agronomists may lack. The need for continuous system updates and maintenance to ensure data accuracy adds to the complexity, making it difficult for non-experts to utilize these tools effectively. The shortage of skilled professionals with dual expertise in soil science and digital technologies exacerbates this issue, further impeding the growth of DSM.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of DSM are considerable. However, the high costs and technical demands restrict its reach primarily to well-funded research institutions and large-scale farming operations. Smaller farms and those in remote areas remain reliant on traditional soil mapping methods. To promote broader adoption of DSM, it is crucial to implement strategies that lower costs, such as government subsidies and training programs, and simplify technology interfaces. Addressing these issues can help mitigate the restraints and unlock the full potential of digital soil mapping technologies in the global market.
Market Opportunity: Integration of Internet of Things (IoT) in Agricultural Practices
The integration of IoT in agricultural practices for the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market is already yielding significant results, with several instances showcasing its potential. For example, in the U.S., John Deere's SEE & SPRAY technology uses advanced sensors and machine learning to detect and map soil conditions in real time, allowing for the precise application of fertilizers and pesticides. This technology reduces chemical usage by up to 90%, demonstrating how IoT can lead to more sustainable and cost-effective farming practices.
In Europe, the Internet of Food & Farm 2020 (IoF2020) project has implemented IoT solutions across various agricultural applications, including soil mapping. One notable instance is the use of soil sensors and drones in vineyards across Spain and Italy. These IoT devices collect soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient data, which are then analyzed to optimize irrigation schedules and improve grape quality. This integration not only enhances crop yield but also contributes to better resource management and environmental conservation.
In Asia, the Indian agri-tech startup Fasal leverages IoT and AI to provide real-time insights into soil health. Farmers use Fasal's IoT devices to monitor soil parameters, such as moisture levels and electrical conductivity, which are crucial for crop management. This data is transmitted to a cloud-based platform, where it is analyzed to offer actionable recommendations to farmers. By adopting IoT-based digital soil mapping, Fasal helps farmers increase productivity and reduce input costs, addressing the challenges of small-scale farming and promoting sustainable agriculture. These instances highlight the diverse applications and tangible benefits of integrating IoT into digital soil mapping across different regions. As the technology continues to evolve, more farmers and agricultural businesses are expected to adopt IoT solutions, driving further growth and innovation in the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market.
Analyst View
According to Debraj Chakraborty, Principal Analyst, BIS Research, “The global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market is poised for significant growth, driven by the increasing need for precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices. Government policies and regulations promoting advanced agricultural technologies, along with substantial investments in research and development for soil mapping innovations, are expected to propel the market forward. Key players in the market are focusing on strategic partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions to expand their market presence and enhance their product offerings, ensuring robust growth in the coming years."
Digital Soil Mapping Platforms and Applications Market
Focus on Application, Product, and Region - Analysis and Forecast, 2024-2034
Some Faq's
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Digital soil mapping (DSM) involves the use of advanced technologies to create detailed, georeferenced maps of soil properties and types. Utilizing methods such as drone scouting, mobile scouting, and satellite imagery, DSM provides precise, real-time soil health assessments that are crucial for optimizing agricultural productivity and sustainability. These technologies enable the collection and analysis of high-resolution data on soil conditions, allowing for better decision-making in crop management, land use planning, and environmental conservation. By integrating AI, machine learning, and IoT, DSM enhances the accuracy and efficiency of soil analysis, making it an indispensable tool for modern agriculture and sustainable land management practices.
The key business opportunities in the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market are stringent regulations by government bodies and gaining a competitive edge through innovation.
The digital soil mapping platforms and applications are poised to grow over time, compelling companies to come up with collaborative strategies to sustain themselves in the intensely competitive market. Companies with an identical product portfolio and a need for additional resources often partner and come together for joint venture programs, which help the companies gain access to one another’s resources and facilitate them to achieve their objectives faster.
A new entrant can focus on partnering with existing digital soil mapping providers. Also, start-ups can focus on funding, launching new innovative products, and expanding their sales and distribution networks.
The following are some of the USPs of this report:
• A dedicated section focusing on the trends adopted by the key players operating in the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market
• Competitive landscape of the companies operating in the ecosystem offering a holistic view of the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market landscape
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the global digital soil mapping platforms and applications market at the region and country level and granularity by application and product segments
• Supply chain and value chain analysis
Digital soil mapping solution providers and agriculture cooperatives can buy this report.
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