Work

On the market appeal of smart pedometer-based services within dairy cow farms

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The rapid advancement of new technologies has significantly transformed livestock production systems, with Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) playing a crucial role in improving economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Among PLF tools, pedometers stand out for their ability to monitor livestock activity, detect health issues, and optimize resource management. Despite their recognized advantages, pedometers remain underutilized, mainly due to concerns about complexity, battery life, and cost. To address these limitations, an innovative Stand-Alone Smart Pedometer was developed within a European Commission-funded project, incorporating an oestrus detection algorithm. Dairy farmers' willingness to pay (WTP) to adopt and use this innovative pedometer was elicited using experimental auctions and the Multiple Price List (MPL) approach. The findings indicate strong interest from farmers, suggesting that the innovative and cost-effective design could facilitate broader adoption, particularly among small and medium-sized farms, contributing to a more sustainable livestock sector.

Source: Environmental and Sustainability Indicators

DOI: 10.1016/j.indic.2025.100798

Authors: M. Bonfanti, R. Selvaggi, G. Pappalardo, C. Bellia, B. Pecorino, S.M.C. Porto

Institutions: University of Messina, University of Catania

Language: English

Topic: Smart Agriculture and AI

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,350