How Raman Spectroscopy is Advancing Sustainable Farming Practices

Raman spectroscopy is emerging as a transformative tool in the field of digital agriculture. The technique, because of its nondestructive nature, has been used for agriculture analysis in the past. In particular, the utility of Raman spectroscopy in improving crop monitoring, diagnosing plant stresses, and advancing sustainability in farming practices has been well-documented (1,2). In this review article published in the journal Sustainability, researchers Aneta Saletnik and Bogdan Saletnik and their team from the University of Rzeszów highlights the role of Raman spectroscopy in advancing agriculture and discusses its potential to bridge the gap between the scientific community’s knowledge of plant physiology and farmers’ practical needs, thus improving productivity and environmental stewardship (3).

Rear view of senior farmer standing in soybean field examining crop at sunset | Image Credit: © Zoran Zeremski - stock.adobe.com

Raman spectroscopy is an optical technique that enables non-destructive, real-time analysis of plant physiological states, making it an ideal tool for precision agriculture (2). Unlike traditional methods, which often require physical sampling and laboratory analysis, Raman spectroscopy allows for in-situ monitoring of key compounds in plants (3). This approach offers the advantage of species-independent study, enabling a broad application across different crop types (1,2).

In their review, the researchers focus on the ability of Raman spectroscopy to diagnose both biotic (caused by living organisms such as pests and diseases) and abiotic stresses (environmental factors like drought, temperature, and soil conditions) in plants. Early detection of these stresses is crucial because they are significant contributors to crop yield losses globally (3). Raman spectroscopy offers real-time analysis that allows farmers and plant breeders to take targeted action to mitigate these stresses, reducing the need for widespread chemical interventions.

One of the most compelling aspects of the review is its focus on how Raman spectroscopy can serve as a bridge between laboratory research and practical farming applications. According to the authors, the technology holds the potential to bring the detailed understanding of plant physiology, often studied in controlled laboratory environments, to the broader context of field-based agriculture (3).

The review emphasizes that the integration of Raman spectroscopy into modern agricultural practices could significantly improve food safety and economic profitability. By providing accurate and swift assessments of crop quality, the technology not only enhances the precision of farming but also contributes to more efficient resource use (3). For instance, it could reduce the over-application of fertilizers and pesticides by allowing farmers to target treatments only to areas where they are needed (3).

Using Raman spectroscopy in agriculture also has economic benefits. The researchers dedicate a section of their review to the economic gains Raman spectroscopy provides. The use of Raman spectroscopy can help farmers optimize their resource management, reducing costs associated with fertilizers, pesticides, and water usage while simultaneously improving crop quality (3). Higher quality crops often command premium prices in the market, leading to increased revenue for farmers (3).

However, the authors caution that further research is necessary to verify the economic viability of Raman spectrometers, especially in terms of their affordability and long-term effectiveness compared to traditional agricultural practices. Portable versions of Raman spectrometers have shown promising results in precision agriculture, offering significant economic benefits in relation to the initial costs incurred (3). The review suggests that sustained collaboration between scientists, farmers, and investors will be crucial for the widespread adoption of this technology (3).

However, there are challenges associated with using Raman spectroscopy in digital agriculture, which the researchers highlight in their review. One of the primary obstacles is translating the raw data collected by the spectrometer into meaningful, actionable insights for farmers (3). Although the technology provides a wealth of information about plant health, developing user-friendly systems that allow growers to interpret this data easily and make cost-effective decisions remains a challenge (3).

The authors call for more extensive testing of Raman spectroscopy under real-world field conditions to evaluate its reliability and economic potential. They argue that these tests are critical for ensuring that the technology can be sustainably implemented on a broad scale, particularly in precision agriculture, where the accurate timing of interventions can make a significant difference in crop outcomes (3).

References

1. Lavery, P. Spectroscopy in Agriculture: An Interview with Dmitry Kurouski. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/spectroscopy-agriculture-interview-dmitry-kurouski (accessed 2024-10-14).
2. Wetzel, W. Reviewing the Impact of Raman Spectroscopy on Crop Quality Assessment: An Interview with Miri Park. Spectroscopy 2024, 39 (s2), 28–31. https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/reviewing-the-impact-of-raman-spectroscopy-on-crop-quality-assessment-an-interview-with-miri-park
3. Saletnik, A.; Saletnik, B.; Zagula, G.; Puchalski, C. Raman Spectroscopy for Plant Disease Detection in Next-Generation Agriculture. Sustainability 2024,16 (13), 5474. DOI: 10.3390/su16135474