Robot ‘farmers’ in Australia help boost output and curb waste

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The robot rolls on tracks between the rows of berries, and has cameras that allow it to take photographs and determine if the berry is ready to be picked...Farmers believe such robots can be more effective at identifying and picking ripe fruit without causing bruising or damage, can potentially work faster than human pickers, and may be able to operate 24 hours a day.

“They’re not a replacement for your workforce, it’s more of a supplement for your capacity on your farm,...Obviously robots don’t get Covid-19, they don’t roll an ankle, they’re pretty reliable workers.”

Experts believe that robots will be able to address labour concerns and increase Australia’s agricultural output, while saving costs and ensuring that water and chemicals are used more efficiently.

robots will “replace tasks, not jobs”...“Automation will mean people can take on value-adding opportunities in their businesses and is a necessity in Australia where there is a shortage of labour

The robots can help to reduce the use of pesticides and fertiliser by applying the exact amounts needed, reducing costs as well as improving the farm’s environmental footprint.

Qns: 

1. Will technology completely replace the role of humans in the future? (RI J2 Feb Timed Practice 2023) 

2. Examine the view that advancements in science and technology should always be for economic gain. (VJC J2 Feb Timed Practice 2023)