Tag: agriculture

Agricultural plants can be protected against fungal infestation with the help of smart microscope systems or UV light robots. Now, an Israeli startup has developed a smart and hollow robotic arm that can pick ripe fruits straight from the tree. The 5m long composite tube winds its way through branches and leaves to reach avocados, oranges and apples alike....

Banana paper can increase potato yield. Gorse is another good source of protein (21%). Globally there are as many as 30,000 edible species of wild plants. Now, in order to increase the variety of foodstuffs available, a Netherlands-based startup is getting them ready for commercial farming. Without any genetic engineering. Instead the physical constituents of a wild plant are...

Environmentally-friendly pesticides rely on plant scents or pheromones produced by female insects. With its automatic sensor solution, meanwhile, an Australian startup is focusing on fungal infestation so that agricultural firms can react to the issue in good time. The team's solar-powered system is installed in fields and operates autonomously for up to 2 years. A small fan directs ambient...

CO2 can be stored in construction waste. Now, a female-founded Bristol startup is lowering emissions by transforming biological waste from industry and agriculture into building materials. Key here: a pilot factory in Lisbon, where the waste is mixed with adapted fungus cells and sustainable chemicals, before being processed in closed-loop and automatised systems. After four weeks, the material is...

A robot removes algae from ships’ hulls autonomously. Now, a Norwegian startup is using automated technology to combat mildew and fungal mould on grapevines. Here, too, there is no need for chemicals, as the electrically-powered robot doesn’t employ oil or sulphur, but soft UV-C light. The latter specifically breaks up the DNA of pests and viruses while protecting the...

A maze-like material keeps insects away from plants. In France, meanwhile, a startup is creating sustainable pesticides from plant scents as around 80% of harmful insects are drawn to by these odours. The team deciphers which scents are particularly attractive for different species, and replicates the molecules in the lab. These can be used for the targeted defence of...

Prison libraries help residents gain new perspectives. Now, a non-profit organisation in the US is supporting communities with libraries of a different kind. Founded by a 17-year-old female high school student, the organisation uses public libraries and food banks to address the impact of ‘food deserts’, providing residents with seed packs free of charge. Locals thus have the opportunity...

Self-driving containers on the railway network should reduce street traffic. Staff shortages in fruit and vegetable farming are creating logistical issues within the industry. An area a New Zealand-based startup is addressing with its automated mini-tractor designed for narrow alleys. Weighing just 120kg, the sleek EV can tow an additional 600kg of weight, while a hitch system allows different...