Periodic Reporting for period 1 - PestNu (Field -testing and demonstration of digital and space based technologies with agro-ecological and organic practices in systemic innovation)
Periodo di rendicontazione: 2021-10-01 al 2023-03-31
PestNu addresses the reduction of pesticides and loss of nutrients by Digital and Space-based Technologies (DSTs) & Agro-ecological and Organic Practices (AOPs) systemic approach. The misuse and overdependence on hazardous pesticides and fertilizers cause environmental degradation, pollution of water, soil, and air. Biodiversity, is also experiencing a detrimental impact. Pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables pose health risks. Lastly, despite investments into Integrated Pest Management, Integrated Nutrient Management, and Precision Farming tools, progress has been underwhelming. Lack of harmonization at the EU level, insufficient international standards and low adoption rates of regulations by EU farmers contribute to this issue. Consequently, many precision farming tools and organic products lack real-world testing, and there is a need for technical solutions to support farmers, particularly those with small to medium-scale farms, in their decision-making and management processes. PestNu’s impacts are important for society for several reasons. Firstly, it decreases dependency on hazardous pesticides, promotes efficient organic farming, reducing pesticide associated risks and protecting the environment and human health. Secondly, PestNu reduces n loss of nutrients from fertilizers enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. It promotes recycled materials for producing fertilizers, contributing to a circular economy and reducing reliance on imported nutrients. Also, PestNu ensures sufficient, safe, nutritious, and affordable food, addressing food security concerns. It promotes food safety, new guidelines, policies, and standards. Moreover, facilitates digital transformation, enhancing food security, safety, and nurturing students in sustainable practices. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, excess fertilizers and hazardous pesticide substances and promotes energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Economically, PestNu strengthens the EU's position and industry, particularly for small/medium enterprises, stimulating start-ups, creating employment , providing innovative solutions, and increasing digitization. Lastly, PestNu improves the resilience of food systems to shocks and stresses and raises awareness among policymakers, businesses and citizens about the potential of innovative systemic solutions and the need for their widespread adoption at the EU scale, leading to behavioral change.
PestNu accomplished several noteworthy achievements. Surveys were conducted via online questionnaires targeted three distinct groups: F2F practitioners, public and private institutions, and citizens from farms. The questionnaires were distributed to nine EU countries. The surveys received a total of 382, 139, and 703 responses. The primary aim of these surveys was to identify the unique characteristics of each target group and country. One notable finding was the lack of awareness of the F2F strategy. Additionally, F2F practitioners expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the F2F EU strategy. In M18, PestNu successfully completed the deployment of the five advanced DST tools. AI Robotic trap redesigned in shape, and deep learning object detection and forecasting models for white flies and aphids. AgroRadar upgraded with AI algorithms to diagnose agro-anomalies, provided an FSi Certificate under blockchain. AMR agro-robot was designed with AI algorithms to detect pests in greenhouses and open-files. Nutrient analyzers were tested, components assessed, and pre-pilot installations completed. The Flow Cytometer, capable of counting microalgae and bacteria, has been finalized. All five tools are now fully completed and prepared for use in pre-pilot activities starting from M19, both in open-fields and greenhouses. The agro-waste water system deployed and installed at greenhouse compartments for production of on-site biofertilizers. NEOALGAE developed recipes.The protocol for the biofertilizer process was developed. Biopesticide fabricated by agrifood wastes, exhibiting promising results in cultivations. Nutrition programs are made at different sites designed for open-field trials and aquaponics in Greece and Spain, with promising outcomes. The DSS was deployed and the communication with the DLT was implemented via smart contracts, a DLT network, and a DLT API. The SiVi Platform was successfully developed, and a security middleware was established. The dashboard allowed users to visualize and explore insights derived from the DSTs' data. PestNu organizing workshops and training seminars that benefited over 350 people. The dissemination strategy involved active participation in over 25 events. More than 11 scientific publications have submitted. Another notable achievement is the development of the PestNu Digital platform offers various services, and features a matchmaking tool for F2F stakeholders. PestNu conducted a comprehensive mapping analysis and identified 40 KER and individual business plans were formulated. Market studies were conducted to assess the potential adoption. Primary markets and key competitors were identified and examined. More than 140 LoI signed F2F organizations and 22 signed collaboration contracts with sister projects affiliated with the Green Deal, support PestNu framework in an active role in promoting methodologies, rallying policy makers and operational groups, and orchestrating roundtables at national workshops and clustering events. Ten practice abstracts and factsheets were produced for EIP-AGRI.
PestNu has made significant strides in surpassing the current state of the art in pest management, robotics, blockchain and DSS. AI-based image processing algorithms were developed. A definition of evidence was established to validate the Blockchain's Food Sustainability index. A robot, a simulation was designed. A computer vision system was created to target pests. Employing SLM technology, components were fabricated. A robust, user-centric cloud-based DSS for Agriculture 4.0 architecture was designed. Additionally, a DLT framework was defined.The AI algorithms are expected to greatly improve the accuracy and speed of pest detection. The use of Blockchain is anticipated to enhance transparency and traceability. The advancements in robotics aim to automate and optimize farm management. The computer vision system, is expected to play a pivotal role in timely intervention and disease management. The use of 3D printing technology could potentially lead to reduced manufacturing costs. The DSS is anticipated to empower farmers with real-time data and insights about their farms. Finally, the deployment of DLT framework is expected to ensure data integrity and verification of DSTs. By decreasing dependency on hazardous pesticides, PestNu aims to contribute to a healthier environment and safer food sources. The reduction in nutrient loss from fertilisers will enhance their efficiency. PestNu’s progress will significantly enhance food security. The digital transformation PestNu brings will have wide-ranging effects on society and industry. Lastly, the results of this project will contribute to creating sustainable, safe, and attractive workplaces.