Agritechnica 2023: SaveFarm introduces AI sprayers that reduce pesticide use by 95%

Brazilian company SaveFarm, part of the Eirene Solutions Group, unveiled an artificial intelligence (AI) solution that optimizes the application of agrochemicals, transforming traditional equipment into smart sprayers. The technology was launched at Agritechnica 2023, one of the world's largest agricultural fairs, which was covered by AgroPages.

According to the manufacturer, the technology is compatible with all types of sprayers available in the market, and results in up to a 95% reduction in pesticide use during pre-planting periods. The SaveFarm system features sensors with high-resolution cameras installed on the sprayer booms. With the support of pre-trained AI, a surface reading of the soil can be performed, identifying weeds and other pests in crops, as well as areas where the application of agricultural chemicals is necessary. Machine operators can monitor the entire process, receive diagnostics, and parameterize operations through a graphical touchscreen interface installed in the sprayer's cabin. SaveFarm's selective spraying technology can be used on various crops, such as soybeans, corn, cotton, sugarcane, eucalyptus and others.

Eduardo Marckmann, CEO of SaveFarm

"The system adapts to any scenario and can be used at different stages of cultivation, even identifying weeds amid mature crops. Our goal is to promote precision agriculture, using technology as an ally for farmers," explained Eduardo Marckmann, CEO of the company, which recently began its internationalization process. According to field studies conducted by SaveFarm, the use of AI in selective crop spraying has resulted in significant cost savings for rural properties, particularly in terms of the use of agricultural chemicals.

In addition to economic benefits, the solution can also save the environment by generating fewer packaging wastes, therefore, reducing soil and water contamination. Due to the high precision in pesticide application, there is also a reduction in fuel consumption, as there is no need to return to base multiple times for refueling.

SaveFarm's AI can also be used for localized irrigation, promoting rational water resource usage. "Ensuring food production with the least possible environmental impact is one of the most urgent issues today, and technology is available to help on a global scale. Notably, this year's Agritechnica theme is 'green productivity,' and we hope to contribute to this discussion by showcasing our solution at the event," Marckmann said.

The participation of the Brazilian industry in Agritechnica has been growing with each edition, and this year, over 20 Brazilian exhibitors are present at the event that began on Sunday (12) in Hannover, Germany. "We visited the fair in 2019 and now return as an exhibitor to demonstrate the technology we developed here in Brazil, alongside major players in the global precision agriculture market. Our objective is to expand our market presence and find new business partners, especially in Europe and Asia," Marckmann said in conclusion.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)

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