The focus on this issue of New AG International was Biological Innovation. We include a deep dive into advancements in bioherbicides, written by DunhamTrimmer, the industry’s premier market research company focused exclusively on the global biocontrol, biostimulant, biofertilizer and crop nutrition markets. New and improved methods of applying biocontrols continue to be developed. In this issue, we spoke with two companies that are using drones for biocontrol application. Indeed, drone-based aerial biocontrol offers a new way for conventional and organic growers to combat pests, reduce the environmental impact of pesticide usage and address a possible labour crunch.

But is there a caveat to note here? Researchers at the University of Copenhagen think so; they recently investigated the environmental consequences of new biotech pesticides. Read more about their findings below.

Overall, advancements in biotechnology and an increasing emphasis on sustainability are driving innovation in this field. Researchers are exploring ways to enhance the efficacy of biologicals, improve their shelf life and integrate them into existing agricultural practices. As knowledge grows and technology advances, the potential for biologicals to play a central role in global agriculture becomes increasingly realistic.

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BIOSTIMULANTS

Pastures New
Using a foliar feed of urea and humic acid on pasture, a UK study set out to see if a foliar feed could replace soil-applied nitrogen while still producing the same level of grass, or dry matter yield. New AG International spoke to the project leader to find out the answer.
“While foliar feeding as a technique has been used for many years in the arable sector, the difference here was using humic acid combined with a liquid nitrogen formulation on pasture.“

BioConsortia nears bionematicide product launch
BioConsortia has reached its 10-year anniversary in 2024 and is looking to build on results in Brazil to accelerate the launch of its bionematicide.

PLANT PROTECTION

Advancements in bioherbicides
The bio-protection market has been on a steady, sustained growth trend over the last 10 years, nearly tripling in revenue to its current level well over US$7 billion globally. The one product category that has lagged behind in that success, however, is bioherbicides. DunhamTrimmer delves into the weakness in the biological portfolio. Read.
“Restrictions on use of chemical herbicides may lead to increased opportunities for bioherbicides.”

Biocontrol application by drones: Innovative solutions in agriculture
There has been increased use of drones in Ukrainian agriculture among both large-scale agribusiness and small-scale farmers. A market leader in biological inputs, Ukrainian company BTU Center provides an overview of how this came about and how drones are now being employed across the agricultural sector, such as delivering biocontrol products on sunflower crops, as well as examples in other European markets.

Researchers investigate environmental consequences of new biotechnological pesticides
Biotechnological pesticides are a promising alternative to traditional chemical pesticides. But there is limited knowledge of how toxic they are to other organisms in the environment beyond regulatory assessments. A new research centre will now work to provide this knowledge – especially to ensure the EU has a chance of joining the growing market for biotechnological pesticides. Read.

PRECISION AGRICULTURE
M3 Agriculture Technologies pioneers drone-based biocontrol for agriculture
In the ever-evolving landscape of agricultural technology, M3 Agriculture Technologies stands out as a trailblazer in integrating drone technology with pest management. Janet Kanters writes.
“M3 has ventured into the beneficial insect release market, utilizing drones to apply predator insects like persimilis mites which are especially effective in managing two-spotted spider mites in moist environments like those found in strawberry production.”

UAV-IQ biological control by drone
UAV-IQ delivers innovative drone solutions tailored to the agricultural industry. New AG International reached out to company founder and CEO Andreas Neuman to learn more.

PRODUCTS & TRENDS
Regenerative Agriculture Rising in the Middle East and North Africa
Regenerative agricultural is on the rise in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), a region where 82 percent of the territory is comprised of desert. In contrast to western countries where regenerative agriculture is primarily promoted as means of combatting climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, MENA countries are embracing regenerative agriculture’s focus on improving soil health as a means to counteract desertification and to increase crop yields. Michael Tanchum explains.

IRRIGATION
Netafim’s precision irrigation shaping the future of farming
In the sprawling fields and high-tech greenhouses of modern agriculture, precision irrigation is emerging as a game-changer. For decades, Netafim, Orbia Precision Agriculture business, has been at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering solutions that promise to reshape how we grow food, conserve resources and tackle the challenges of a changing climate. Janet Kanters writes.

The irrigation innovator: Rivulis’s tailored solutions
In the realm of modern agriculture, efficiency is key, and drip irrigation stands at the forefront of this revolution. From high density olive orchards to high-density lettuce fields, the layout and design of drip irrigation systems are tailored to meet the diverse needs of various crops and climates. At the heart of this technological advancement is Rivulis, a leading provider of tailored irrigation solutions. Editor Janet Kanters connected with Eran Ossmy, President of Micro Irrigation Division, to learn more.

GREENHOUSE CROPPING
Almeria’s green revolution: best test case for biologicals
The Almeria region of southern Spain is often referred to as Europe’s kitchen, producing abundant fresh produce for the rest of the continent and beyond. But apart from impressive volumes, its switch to a biological pest control approach is what makes them a fresh produce force to be reckoned with. Lindi Botha writes.
“Placing beneficial insects in the greenhouses is one aspect of biological crop control, but keeping them there and active, is another that requires much attention for long term success.” Isabel Mendizabal, agricultural engineer. Agrobio.

Global surge in greenhouse demand
As global climate concerns and resource scarcity intensify, nations worldwide are increasingly turning to greenhouses as a solution for sustainable and local food production. A new white paper, commissioned by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland, RVO) and funded by the European Community, offers a detailed examination of the potential for greenhouse development across the globe. Janet Kanters writes.
“Current estimates of covered horticulture, which includes both traditional and advanced greenhouse systems, suggest approximately 700,000 hectares of protected horticulture worldwide, with about 53,000 hectares dedicated to high-tech greenhouses. However, there are significant data gaps, particularly in regions like China, where precise numbers remain elusive.”
“The top 10 countries with the strongest expected growth in high-tech greenhouses are the U.S., France, Spain, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Italy, Japan, Turkey and China.” Peter Ravensbergen, horticulture sector expert, Wageningen University & Research.”

AGRONOMICS AND ECONOMICS
Bridging the optimism gap
In March, the World Bank Group released a report assessing the effectiveness and impact of its irrigation loans, which have fallen in value since their peak in the 1970s and 1980s. The author reveals a significant optimism gap between the evaluation stage of a project and the appraisal stage carried some years after the completion of project. One of the consequences of projects that have fallen short of expectation is the use of groundwater resources, particularly in India. New AG International investigates.