A Data Governance Framework for Socio-Ecological Value in Smart Agriculture
Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: The digital transformation of agriculture has accelerated the adoption of data-driven technologies such as IoT sensors, satellite imagery, blockchain, and artificial intelligence. However, small and medium-sized farms often face structural challenges related to data governance, interoperability, and equitable value creation, limiting the sustainable use of digital innovations. This paper proposes a farmer-centric data governance and analytics framework that integrates heterogeneous farm data sources into a socio-ecological value assessment system. The framework combines low-cost data collection tools, including IoT sensors, mobile applications, cooperative surveys, and administrative records, with secure data processing pipelines and traceable storage mechanisms. At its core, a socio-ecological value scorecard (SEVS) aggregates ecological, social, and economic indicators to support balanced decision-making that aligns short-term productivity with longterm sustainability. The framework operationalizes governance principles such as transparency, shared responsibility, and data sovereignty through practical policies, cooperative stewardship, and accessible technical mechanisms. The proposed model contributes to smart agriculture research by demonstrating how governance-aware data architectures can enable inclusive, trustworthy, and sustainable digital farming practices.
Authors: Saeed Niksaz, Fisnik Dalipi, Avni Rustemi
Institutions: Linnaeus University, State University of Tetova
Language: English
Topic: Smart Agriculture and AI
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7172000602