INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN SUGAR BEET PRODUCTION: DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS FOR THE SUGAR INDUSTRY
Abstract
The article examines the current state and development prospects of sugar beet production in Ukraine, with a focus on the implementation of innovative technologies, including digital solutions, bioenergy, robotics, and genetic improvement of beet varieties. The relevance of the study is driven by the challenges facing the industry: declining yields, market instability, environmental issues, and the impact of climate change. It is argued that effective integration of innovations can enhance productivity, reduce costs, improve product quality, and ensure the sustainable development of the sector. Special attention is given to recent advances in breeding (Magna, Sheila, Axel hybrids), agrochemistry (potassium biosulfates), automation (use of UAVs and the SugarViT system), and energy efficiency. The study also explores European experience, particularly the Smart Beet Initiative, as an example of a comprehensive approach to sustainable beet cultivation. The importance of using modern digital solutions-such as precision farming, agrorobotics, biotechnology, and energy-efficient technologies-is emphasized in the context of climate change and market volatility. Analytical data is presented on the dynamics of sugar beet sowing areas and yields in Ukraine for 2020–2024, as well as the performance characteristics of advanced hybrids. A separate focus is placed on the evaluation model for farmers' readiness to adopt robotic weeding systems-taking into account both ecological and technological factors. The study’s findings are practically significant for shaping an innovation-driven strategy in the sugar industry and strengthening the country’s food security. It is established that the deployment of autonomous field robots for weeding has the potential to reduce herbicide use and labor costs; however, its success depends not only on technical feasibility but also on farmers’ psychological readiness. In conclusion, the paper outlines future research directions and practical recommendations for the modernization of the sector. Ukraine possesses all the necessary prerequisites to integrate innovations into sugar production and align with European agri-food standards.
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