11/12/2025
The article synthesizes low-emission high-tech farming models implemented in countries around the world, focusing on precision agriculture, regenerative agriculture, biotechnology, digital agriculture and circular agriculture. Through analyzing the results of typical models, the article draws valuable lessons for Vietnam to develop green agriculture, adapt to climate change and fulfill its commitment to reduce emissions.
1. INTRODUCTION
In the context of increasingly serious climate change and urgent commitments to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions, countries are increasingly promoting low-emission agricultural production models to minimize negative impacts on climate and natural resources (IPCC, 2019). Agriculture, especially crop cultivation, accounts for a large part of total global greenhouse gas emissions due to production activities such as the use of chemical fertilizers, burning straw, and unsustainable farming techniques. Therefore, developing high-tech crop cultivation models to reduce emissions is an inevitable direction to protect the environment and ensure sustainable food security (Getahun, 2024; ClimatePolicyLab, 2024).
Crop production not only contributes significantly to the economies of many countries but is also the sector with the greatest potential for emission reduction in agriculture if properly organized and applied with the right technology. The transformation of traditional crop production models to high-tech solutions, the application of precision, regenerative, digital and circular agricultural techniques helps optimize resource use, reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), while improving economic efficiency and product quality (Vietnam Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development [MARD], 2024; Moitruong.net, 2025). Low-emission crop production practices also contribute to the preservation of land and water resources and promote sustainable agriculture in the context of complex climate change.
Globally, technologies such as precision agriculture, AI and IoT applications, water-saving irrigation techniques, genetically modified varieties, as well as Alternating Wet and Dry (AWD) techniques and circular biomass models have demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, saving water resources, improving productivity and product quality. These models not only create outstanding economic value but also significantly reduce input costs and negative environmental impacts (Addorisio et al., 2025; Rahman et al., 2025). Leading countries such as the United States, Japan, China, and the Netherlands have widely deployed these technologies, creating a solid foundation in responding to global climate change.
Climate change and greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture pose great challenges for countries. Developing high-tech, environmentally friendly and emission-reducing agricultural production models is an inevitable strategy. International experience shows that advanced technologies help reduce emissions, increase productivity and reduce production costs. Vietnam needs comprehensive research to develop effective low-emission agricultural development policies and strategies. The article aims to synthesize and analyze low-emission high-tech farming models in the world, focusing on key technologies such as precision agriculture, regenerative agriculture, biotechnology, digital and circular agriculture. Based on the analysis of experiences from countries, important lessons are proposed, suggesting a suitable roadmap for low-emission agricultural development in Vietnam.
2. INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE IN LOW EMISSION HIGH TECHNOLOGY CROP PRODUCTION
2.1. Precision agriculture models
Precision agriculture (PA) is a management strategy to address geographical and temporal variations in agricultural fields (Alfred, R et al., 2021; Monteiro, A et al., 2021) involving contemporary data and technology. To date, precision agriculture has mainly included variable rate technologies (VRTs), digital maps, yield monitoring devices, and farming system guidance (McFadden, J et al., 2023 and Liu, Y et al., 2021). The application of variable rate technology was first demonstrated in northern Germany and Denmark in 1988 after the global positioning system (GPS) became available to civil services (Haneklaus, S et al., 2016).
Countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European countries have taken the lead, leveraging innovations such as variable rate technology, remote sensing, and automated machinery (Kose U et al., 2022). These advances allow for real-time monitoring and management of crops, leading to higher yields and more efficient use of resources.
In Africa, the adoption of precision agriculture is growing, albeit at a slower pace than in more developed regions. (Goel RK et al., 2021). The continent faces unique challenges, such as limited access to technology, high costs, and inadequate infrastructure.(Kala ESM et al., 2021).
Currently, applications of precision agriculture focus on soil and water management, crop monitoring, nutrient and pest management, harvesting, etc. Some studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of precision agriculture applications in crop production as presented in Table 1.
Table 1. Efficiency from precision agriculture applications in crop cultivation
|
Application |
Benefit |
Problem |
Source |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Enhance soil health and resource efficiency |
Soil health improved by 20% - 30%; resource use efficiency increased by 15% |
Poor soil fertility; Inefficient use of resources |
Adams, BT, 2019 Hostiou, N. et al., 2017 |
|
Using sensor technology and data analytics to optimize irrigation operations |
Reduce water use by 30%-50%; Increase crop yield by 10-20% |
Water scarcity; inefficient irrigation systems |
Hendriks, WH et al., 2017 Nóbrega, L. et al., 2020 |
|
Using drones, satellite imagery and IoT sensors to monitor crops in real time |
Improve productivity 10%-25%; reduce input costs 15%
|
Lack of real-time crop data; high input costs |
Terrasson, G et al., 2017 Buy-Baptista, E. et al., 2019 |
|
Optimizing nutrient use through data-driven techniques |
20% increase in nutrient use efficiency; 25% reduction in fertilizer costs |
overuse of fertilizers; high nutrient costs |
Song, C. et al., 2021 Rutter, S.M., 2019 |
|
Using data-driven and remote sensing strategies for pest and disease management |
Reduce pests and diseases by 20%–40%; reduce crop failure by 15-25% |
Pest management |
Andriamandroso, ALH et al., 2016 Grinter, LN et al., 2019 |
|
Optimize planting and harvesting through GPS guidance and data analysis |
Productivity increases 15%–30%; Fuel savings 10–20% |
Inefficient planting/harvesting; high fuel costs |
Lovarelli, D et al., 2020 Adams, BT et al., 2019 |
|
Using climate data and predictive models to adapt crop management practices, ensuring resilience to climate change impacts |
Improve crop resilience by 20%; Reduce adaptation costs by 10% |
Impacts of climate change; Costs of adaptation |
Terrasson, G et al., 2017 Dutta, R. et al., 2014 |
|
Maximize crop yields through advanced data management and analytics techniques |
Crop yields increased by 15%–25%; Data management efficiency increased by 20% |
Low productivity; Inefficient data management |
Meunier, B. et al., 2018 |
|
Using technology to optimize resource use and minimize environmental impact, promoting sustainable land management |
Reduce land degradation by 20%; Increase resource use efficiency by 15% |
Land degradation; Inefficient use of resources |
Adams, BT et al., 2019 Meen, GH et al., 2015 |
|
Reducing carbon emissions and optimizing energy use for sustainable agriculture |
Reduce carbon emissions by 15%–25% ; Reduce energy use by 10–20% |
High carbon emissions; high energy costs |
Terrasson, G et al., 2017 Hendriks, WH et al., 2019 |
Source: Sewnet Getahun et al., 2024
Precision agriculture, with its ability to optimize resource use and maximize crop yields, is recognized as an important tool in climate adaptation strategies for agriculture. Precision agriculture contributes to broader carbon and energy management efforts by providing valuable data for carbon accounting and emissions monitoring. Insights from precision agriculture systems enable farmers to accurately assess their carbon footprint and make informed decisions to reduce emissions.
2.2. Regenerative agriculture models
Regenerative agriculture (RA) is one of the farming systems that offers the simultaneous potential of landscape restoration and biodiversity conservation (Khangura, R. et al., 2023; Hensel, K., 2018). Despite its potential benefits, the adoption of RA can be challenged by transition periods, initial costs, yield variability, risk management, economic viability, ambiguous standards, and the need for farmers to acquire new skills (Sands, B. et al., 2023; Newton, P. et al., 2020; O'donoghue, T. et al., 2020).
The global RA market was valued at USD 975.2 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.9% from 2023 to 2030, surpassing USD 4290.9 million by 2032 (Kapoor, V., 2023). In 2022, North American countries, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico, held the largest market share (37%) of RA. Other leading countries in this sector include Western European countries, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, as well as Asia - Pacific countries such as India, China, and Australia.
In developing countries, RA offers solutions to enhance food security and the potential to increase family farm income (Tan, SS et al., 2022). Conversely, in developed countries such as the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, RA is consistent with environmental management principles aimed at reducing chemical use, conserving natural resources, and transitioning to sustainable and carbon-neutral agriculture that are important to markets and governments (Herzog, R, 2023; Kurth, T. et al., 2023) .
RA and sustainability are closely linked; however, RA is a holistic land management approach that goes beyond sustainable farming practices. It focuses on restoring soil and ecosystem health, with an emphasis on improving agricultural production functions rather than returning to native production. In contrast, sustainability primarily seeks to maintain existing systems (Brown, K. et al., 2021; Hes, D.; Rose, N, 2019), focusing on optimizing beneficial interactions between soil and plants, reducing external inputs, and applying ecological farming methods. Soil fertility and resilience play a central role in RA, aiming to optimize biogeochemical cycles, enhance disease resistance, and increase productivity while maintaining a strong symbiotic relationship between soil and plants (Lal, R, 2020; McLennon, E et al., 2021).
2.3. Biotechnology models
Biotechnology, a multifaceted discipline that connects natural sciences and engineering, has become the cornerstone of modern innovation (Mosier and Ladisch, 2011). It has transformed many areas of human life by leveraging biological systems, organisms, and processes to develop groundbreaking products and services (Udegbe et al., 2024). The term “biotechnology” was first introduced by Károly Ereky in 1919, referring to the production of goods from raw materials using living organisms (Goyal, 2018). Over the years, the sector has evolved to include diverse technologies such as genetic engineering, tissue culture, fermentation, and bioinformatics, which are now indispensable in areas such as agriculture, medicine, and environmental science (Hulse, 2004).
In the field of agriculture, biotechnology has emerged as a disruptive technology (Betz et al., 2023). It addresses pressing global challenges such as food security, malnutrition, and environmental sustainability. By integrating advanced genetic tools and techniques, biotechnology has enabled the development of high-yielding, nutritious, and resilient crop varieties (Joshi et al., 2023).
Brazil has widely adopted genetically modified (GM) soybeans and sugarcane varieties that have increased pest resistance and lower nitrogen fertilizer requirements. Research shows that GM technology reduces nitrogen fertilizer requirements and nitrous oxide emissions by approximately 18% compared to conventional varieties, while increasing yields by an average of 15% (Anyibama et al., 2025; Seixas et al., 2022). GM varieties also contribute to reducing the need for pesticides and no-till farming methods, which significantly reduce carbon emissions from mechanical operations and soil improvement. The adoption of GM varieties has promoted sustainable development of Brazilian agriculture, ensuring economic efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The United States focuses on developing biotechnology with drought-resistant, pest-resistant plant varieties that improve quality and increase productivity. Genetic engineering reduces pesticide costs by 20% and increases productivity by 10%, helping to optimize production, reduce resource use pressure, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (Anyibama et al., 2025; Edgerton et al., 2009). Pilot and certification processes for reduced genetic risk have helped American farmers widely adopt high-tech varieties, while promoting competitiveness in international markets.
2.4. Digital agriculture application models
Korea is also a leading country in applying digital technology to crop production. The rate of applying digital technology among crop farms in Korea in 2022 is 1.48% with 957 farms on crops such as tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, cantaloupes, tangerines, grapes and flowers. Technologies applied include using AI robots to collect growth data, irrigation data and human resource management.

Use of AI Robot in farm in Korea
Applications in Korea show that the application of digital technology in production brings benefits such as: Increasing productivity and reducing working hours by fully controlling the cultivation environment (temperature, humidity, CO2 and light, etc.); Producing high-quality crops all year round through a uniform circular production system; Controlling/managing the cultivation environment with remote automatic control; Managing production methods based on different climate characteristics in each region and not being affected by pest risks.
The Netherlands began implementing digital agriculture integrating blockchain and IoT in supply chain management in the mid-2010s. Blockchain provides transparency, security and product traceability, reducing the risk of fraud and loss (Addorisio et al., 2025). At the same time, IoT sensors in greenhouses help control environmental indicators such as humidity, light, and temperature to optimize energy. The model helps reduce post-harvest losses by 20% and CO₂ emissions by 25-30% in the supply chain. This is a model with wide application in fruit and vegetable farms, supported by the government and effective public-private cooperation (Farmonaut, 2025; TNO, 2025).
Israel has been famous since the late 2000s for its smart drip irrigation system incorporating AI, using sensors to measure soil moisture and nutrients to control irrigation precisely (Addorisio et al., 2025). The technology helps save irrigation water by 40-50%, increase productivity by 15-25%, and reduce N2O emissions by about 12% by optimizing the amount of fertilizer used. The Israeli government provides financial support, training and research to develop irrigation technology to cope with drought and water scarcity, contributing positively to sustainable agriculture.
Germany has been developing the Agrovoltaics model since the early 2010s, integrating solar grids on cultivated areas (Addorisio et al., 2025). Farmers can grow crops while exploiting clean electricity, reducing CO2 emissions by 10-15 % compared to fossil fuel-based grid electricity, while increasing income from electricity sales. The model is widely deployed on medium and large-scale farms, supported by renewable energy incentives and linked multidisciplinary research.
2.5. Circular agriculture
Circular agriculture offers a transformative approach to sustainable farming by focusing on the efficient use and recycling of resources within agricultural systems. Unlike traditional linear farming, which relies on continuous resource inputs and generates significant waste, circular agriculture emphasizes closing nutrient and resource loops, minimizing environmental impacts and maintaining ecosystem health.
Circular agriculture operates on several core principles that promote resource efficiency, close nutrient cycles, promote biodiversity, and minimize environmental impacts. These principles fundamentally reshape the way farming systems operate, shifting from linear models that produce waste to regenerative, zero-waste agricultural practices (Lehmann, S. 2011).
Table 2. Key practices in circular agriculture
|
Practice |
Describe |
Benefit |
|
Agroecology |
Applying ecological principles in farming; integrating crop and livestock farming |
Increase biodiversity, improve soil health, reduce pests and diseases |
|
Permaculture |
System design focuses on self-sufficiency and landscape regeneration |
Optimizes resource use, increases resilience, reduces chemical inputs |
|
Agroforestry |
Integrating crop and livestock farming to create multifunctional systems |
Improve soil quality, provide habitat, sequester carbon and diversify income |
|
Regenerative agriculture |
Ecosystem restoration and enhancement measures, such as no-till and cover cropping |
Increase soil organic matter, improve water retention and promote biodiversity |
|
Closed-loop system |
Output reuse systems, such as hydroponics and biogas production |
Reduce waste, improve energy efficiency and promote self-sufficiency |
Source: Kiran Kotyal., 2023
Table 3. Principles and benefits of circular agriculture
|
Principle |
Describe |
Benefit |
|
Nutrient recycling |
Retain and reuse nutrients through composting and manure management |
Reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, increases soil fertility |
|
Reduce input |
Minimize dependence on external resources through natural processes and techniques |
Reduce production costs, enhance ecosystem resilience |
|
Biodiversity conservation |
Promote diverse ecosystems that are resilient to pests and climate change |
Support ecosystem services, improve farm resilience |
|
Waste reduction |
Reuse all forms of waste in the agricultural system |
Reduce environmental pollution and improve resource efficiency |
|
Ecosystem health |
Create farming systems that enhance overall ecosystem health |
Support long-term and sustainable agricultural production |
Source: Kiran Kotyal., 2023
For the environment, implementing a circular economy can contribute to combating climate change, as it is estimated that it can reduce emissions by 5.6 billion tons of CO2 equivalent by 2050 (EMF, 2019a). EMF (2021) described a study in which potato cultivation using different regenerative farming methods according to circular principles could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% and biodiversity loss by 15%, as well as reduce agricultural costs by reducing the need for fertilizers and pesticides and the use of machinery. The results of the study by Carlson et al. (2016) determined that the estimated greenhouse gas emissions from cropland were in the range of 2,294 - 3,102 Tg CO2e/year.
Some models implemented in countries such as: Japan improves the circular agriculture model by recycling agricultural by-products into organic fertilizers, helping to reduce CO₂ emissions by about 15% annually. In rice cultivation, AWD techniques are applied in parallel to help save 20-30% of irrigation water (Rahman et al., 2025). In addition, Japan develops a model combining low-carbon farming and biomass energy from by-products, contributing to increasing land sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Germany has developed the Agrovoltaics model, combining agricultural production with solar power by installing solar panels on top of farming systems. This model helps reduce CO₂ emissions by 10-15% by replacing grid power with clean energy, while increasing farmers' income from selling electricity (Addorisio et al., 2025). Agrovoltaics technology is considered an effective solution to integrate renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.
China has implemented a biomass-based model in rice production, using post-harvest straw as biomass energy instead of burning it in the field. This method reduces CO2 emissions by 20-25%, while improving rural air quality and reducing the risk of forest fires (Rahman et al., 2025; Duan, 2023).
4. Lessons learned for Vietnam
From the practices of applying high emission reduction technologies in other countries, lessons learned for Vietnam include:
First, Increase investment in digital infrastructure and big data to deploy precision agriculture such as IoT sensor networks, big data platforms, artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor and forecast pests, optimize planting schedules and fertilizer management. Vietnam needs to increase investment in digital infrastructure, especially in large production areas, support training and popularize technology to help farmers apply more optimal farming practices.
Second, Encourage the development of regenerative and circular agricultural models to improve soil quality and reduce emissions. Vietnam needs to replicate these models along with managing agricultural by-products to recycle into organic fertilizers, increase sustainability and reduce resource loss, and support different ecological zones to apply them appropriately.
Third, Strengthen research and development of biotech crop varieties that adapt to climate change, create high-yield varieties that are less dependent on pesticides and chemical fertilizers, contributing to creating a sustainable foundation for low-emission farming.
Fourth, Expanding international cooperation to acquire technology and improve qualifications. International cooperation policies help Vietnam access capital, technology and advanced management experience in emission reduction agriculture, such as Green Climate Fund (GCF) projects, multinational cooperation programs (UNDP, FAO). Strengthening training, technology transfer, and building a standardized measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) system (according to international standards) will help Vietnam build a transparent system, promote the development of carbon credits, and facilitate access to high-end export markets that large agricultural corporations are targeting (Moitruong.net, 2025).
Fifth, Develop financial support policies, training and communication to raise awareness. Financial support from the State, including preferential credit and technical support packages, will facilitate farmers to apply high technology. Along with that, building a set of communication materials and organizing training on knowledge about low-emission farming will change traditional production behavior. At the same time, assessing the socio-economic and environmental impacts of pilot models will help strengthen confidence and encourage wider application.
Sixth, Develop practical experimental models of diverse ecological regions. Focus on building and replicating experimental models associated with typical ecological regions such as the Mekong Delta (rice), the Central Highlands (coffee, pepper), the Red River Delta (vegetables, rice) for evaluation and appropriate adjustment. These models need to meet the requirements of emission control, economic efficiency and high replicability. Along with that, develop measurement indicators and a synchronous data system to support the application of carbon credits when the domestic and international credit markets develop.
5. Conclusion
Low-emission high-tech agricultural models have proven to be effective in reducing greenhouse gases, saving resources and increasing economic productivity. Vietnam can learn from them and adapt them to its natural and socio-economic conditions, contributing to the successful implementation of its commitment to reduce net emissions to zero by 2050.
Đỗ Thị Hồng Dung, Mai Văn Trinh, Bùi Thị Phương Loan, Vũ Dương Quỳnh
Institute of Agricultural Environment
(Source: The article was published on the Environment Magazine by English No. IV/2025)
REFERENCES