Drones could add a billion to UK primary industry income

Over 76,000 drones could be in the UK skies in 12 years' time -- and it could add as much as £1.1 billion (€1.3 billion) to the amount generated through farming and other primary industries. Drone technology has the potential to increase the UK's gross domestic product (GDP) by £42 billion (or 2%) by 2030, according to new research from PwC. The report, 'Skies Without Limits', estimates that more than a third of these could be used for agriculture, mining, gas and electricity. Certain drones combine normal and thermal cameras to deliver a level of insight into field crop health that is not obvious to the naked human eye. For example, thermal imaging can detect dry areas and ensure water is delivered where required.