Will robots and AI cause mass unemployment?

The automation of greenhouses using advanced technologies such as IoT and artificial intelligence has attracted much attention from farmers. These technologies can help increase productivity and reduce costs. However, there are concerns about their impact on the labor market, especially regarding worker unemployment. Does greenhouse automation necessarily lead to unemployment, or can it create new opportunities for workers? In this article, we explore this topic and propose solutions for managing the workforce in this new situation.

Impact of Greenhouse Automation on the Labor Market

Greenhouse automation using advanced technologies such as IoT sensors and automated control systems can significantly change the need for human labor. These changes can occur in two main ways:

1. Reduction in the Need for Human Labor:

   • Process Automation: Many tasks that were previously done by workers can now be automated by smart systems. This includes controlling irrigation, adjusting temperature and humidity, and even harvesting crops.
   • Cost Reduction: By reducing dependence on human labor, producers can lower their costs and consequently reduce the number of workers.

2. Creation of New Job Opportunities:

   • Need for New Skills: With technological advancements, there is an increased need for workers who have technical skills and the ability to work with smart systems.
   • New Job Fields: Greenhouse automation can lead to the creation of new jobs in related fields such as software development, smart system management, and data analysis.

In summary, while greenhouse automation can automate some traditional tasks and reduce the need for human labor, it also creates new job opportunities for workers with the appropriate skills. Therefore, the impact of these technologies on the labor market is dual and requires proper management and planning to mitigate negative effects and capitalize on positive opportunities.

Benefits of Greenhouse Automation for Workers

Proposed Solutions to Reduce Worker Unemployment

Greenhouse automation can automate some traditional tasks and reduce the need for human labor. However, with proper planning and effective solutions, it is possible to prevent increased worker unemployment and even create new opportunities for them. Here are some proposed solutions for managing the workforce in this new situation:

1. Training and Skill Enhancement for Workers:

   • Technical Training: Offering training courses for workers in areas related to advanced technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, and smart system management.
   • Soft Skills Enhancement: Focusing on soft skills such as problem-solving, time management, and teamwork, which are essential for working with new technologies.

2. Creation of New Jobs in Related Fields:

   • Software Development: Encouraging workers to learn software development and participate in the design and development of smart systems.
   • Smart System Management: Creating new jobs in the field of managing and maintaining smart systems and providing necessary training for workers.

3. Collaboration Between Public and Private Sectors:

   • Government Support: Utilizing government financial and educational support to offer training courses and create new jobs.
   • Collaboration with Technology Companies: Collaborating with technology companies to transfer technology and provide specialized training to workers.

4. Encouragement of Entrepreneurship:

   • Support for Entrepreneurs: Providing facilities and necessary support for workers who wish to start their own businesses.
   • Creation of Support Networks: Forming support networks for entrepreneurs and offering them consultation and guidance.

5. Human Resource Management:

   • Assessment of Workforce Needs: Continuously reviewing workforce needs and adjusting the number of workers based on new requirements.
   • Flexible Work Policies: Offering flexible work policies such as remote work and flexible working hours for workers.

Greenhouse automation using advanced technologies can help increase productivity and improve workers’ working conditions. However, there are concerns about its impact on the labor market. By training workers, creating new jobs, and collaborating between public and private sectors, it is possible to prevent increased worker unemployment and create new opportunities for them. Therefore, with proper planning, greenhouse automation can lead to both increased productivity and improved working conditions for workers.