🌱 Tric deploys UV robots that cut pesticide use by 70%

Tric is deploying autonomous robots that move through fields at night, using UV-C light to kill fungal diseases and spider mites without chemicals. Pilots on California's Central Coast have shown up to 70% reductions in pesticide use.

The technology is based on a simple biological advantage. Many fungi can repair UV damage when exposed to blue light during the day. At night, that repair mechanism does not activate, making the damage permanent. University trials found nighttime UV treatments could eliminate up to 95% of infections on crops including strawberries, grapes, cucumbers, basil, and roses.
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Tric's Eden robot spans more than 40 feet, while its Luna platform covers 6 rows at a time across 50 to 100 acres. The machines can carry UV systems, bug vacuums, and precision cameras in a single pass.
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Farmers do not buy the robots. They subscribe to the service, while Tric operates the fleet.

📊@tech