To meet the demands of a growing population, growing water scarcity, and greater climate change, agricultural practices will need innovative technological solutions to manage resources and practices sustainably. This includes advanced smart irrigation systems, part of precision agriculture, which exploit Internet-of-things-based technologies, and real-time data analytics for automated water application systems that provide the appropriate amount of water for increased crop production. Smart irrigation uses instrumentation networks, weather forecasts, and smart data analytics algorithms to assess the appropriate amount of water for each crop growth phase, consequently reducing waste from over-application and increasing yield through precise amounts. Our research evaluates recent developments in smart irrigation, documented and supported by relevant case studies, demonstrating its overall benefits across all farming systems. The objectives of smart irrigation should include an increase in water use efficiency, improvements in crop health, and a reduction on environmental impact. Other aspects of smart irrigation systems include their technical complexity and financial cost that limits adoption in some agricultural systems. Case studies illustrate viable methods to meet these environmental challenges, such as education, and future research options networks and persuasion. The proposed research offers the necessary framework and actionable intelligence from emerging agricultural practices and outcomes that feed into the shared global debate on sustainable agriculture and resource use. With insightful recommendations for researchers, policymakers, and funding bodies to promote smart irrigation practices and economically sustainable agricultural systems, this work aims to ensure continued food production and enhance environmental sustainability on a global scale.