Environmental optimization of viticulture with the use of information technologies

Abstract

In the light of the need to practically improve the environmental performance in viticulture, the overall aim of the present work was to develop a monitoring and decision support system for stakeholders in the viti-vinicultural value chain. This was achieved by adopting a multi-disciplinary approach which included (1) management zone delineation, (2) deployment of sensing and telecommunication infrastructures, and (3) development of an information platform to incorporate and visualize data and assist grape-growers in decision making. The proposed platform, called ‘GREEN VINEYARD’, utilizes a geo-database and digital spatial background for the management and distribution of spatial information while a web application provides the interface with the user. The platform was pilot-tested during 2014, in two commercial vineyards in Northern Greece planted with Vitis vinifera cvs. Sauvignon blanc and Syrah respectively. Two management zones were delineated in each vineyard based on apparent electrical conductivity and NDVI surveys. A weather station and soil moisture sensor network were installed into each management zone for irrigation scheduling. Real-time sensor data were integrated on the web platform which provided alert notifications based on thresholds established according to the desired operation scenarios (light water deficit for Sauvignon blanc and moderate deficit for Syrah). In addition, leaf petiole analysis per zone at bloom was used to schedule fertilization. The effect of these applications in relation to greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) was estimated by calculating Carbon Footprint (CF) and compared to conventional practice. According to the results, in both varieties, conventional practice had a higher CF (i.e. higher GHG emissions) than site- specific management approach based on the platform’s notifications.