Exploring the direction of sustainable development of the agricultural economy under the development of science and technology in modern society

Abstract

In the context of rapid technological advancement, the agricultural sector faces both unprecedented opportunities and challenges in achieving sustainable economic development. This study explores the direction of sustainable development of the agricultural economy by integrating modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things(IoT), and big data analytics. Employing a mixed-methods approach, we analyzed data from 120 agricultural enterprises and conducted in-depth interviews with 30 agricultural experts. The results indicate that technology-driven agricultural practices significantly enhance resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and improve economic returns. A multiple regression analysis revealed that technology adoption intensity (β= 0.58, p < 0.001) and digital infrastructure(β= 0.47, p < 0.01) are the strongest predictors of sustainable agricultural economic performance. Furthermore, the study identifies key pathways for integrating technology into agricultural policy and practice to foster long-term sustainability. These findings provide empirical evidence and strategic direction for policymakers, agribusinesses, and researchers aiming to align agricultural development with sustainable goals in the digital era.