Ai: How Technology is Helping to Reduce Pesticide Usage in Agriculture and Sustain the Industry
The agricultural industry is facing a critical issue with the overuse of pesticides, with an estimated 3 million tonnes being sprayed onto crops annually. This excessive use of chemicals is causing them to run off onto delicate land and seep into water sources, leading to harmful effects on the environment and human health. Despite this, global sales of pesticides reached $79 billion in 2022, indicating a growing reliance on these chemicals in agriculture.
Fortunately, there are new advancements in technology that could help reduce the amount of pesticides needed by farmers. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being utilized in new spraying methods that have the potential to decrease pesticide usage by up to 90%. This innovation could have a significant impact on reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture and improving sustainability in the industry.
In addition to AI-driven solutions, some progress has already been made in addressing overspray issues. Adjuvants, additives that can be mixed into pesticide tanks, are being used to improve the effectiveness of sprays in adhering to and penetrating plant leaves. Some crop sprayers are also implementing electrostatic charging systems to enhance droplet adhesion to foliage, although there are differing opinions on their effectiveness.
Overall, there is growing awareness of the need to reduce pesticide usage and mitigate the negative impacts of chemical overspray. With ongoing developments in technology and agricultural practices, the industry is moving towards more sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions for pest control.
