Farmers’ Knowledge and Use of New Agricultural Technologies in Greece: Evidence from a Nationwide Survey and Implications for Farmer Education and Training

Smart agricultural technologies can improve input efficiency and environmental performance, but their benefits depend on farmers’ knowledge and use. This study assessed knowledge and use of new agricultural technologies among Greek crop farmers, perceptions of sustainable agriculture and environmental impacts, and the usefulness of agricultural education. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from September 2023 to May 2024 among 1,054 crop farmers across all 13 Greek regions using convenience sampling. Pearson’s chi-square tests and Cramer’s V examined associations between technology knowledge and age, education, and agricultural experience. Overall, 56.8% reported knowledge of new technologies, 29.7% reported technologically equipped machinery, and 17.9% reported using such technologies. Knowledge was significantly associated with age (χ²(4) = 64.41, V = 0.249), education (χ²(5) = 204.02, V = 0.444), and experience (χ²(9) = 182.51, V = 0.420; all p < 0.001). Furthermore, 70.1% reported no knowledge of sustainable agriculture, while the perceived usefulness of agricultural education was very high (mean = 4.73/5). The findings indicate a gap between reported technological knowledge and actual use and support practical training in smart machinery, digital skills, environmental protection, and agronomic practices. Given the cross-sectional design, convenience sampling, and self-reported measures, the observed associations should not be interpreted causally.