In the United States, a way has been found to grow strawberries without unnecessary chemicals. California-based TRIC Robotics has developed autonomous robots that treat fields with UVC ultraviolet light. This light spectrum destroys pests and disease-causing microorganisms without harming plants or the ecosystem. The robots work at night, are supplemented by “vacuum cleaners” that collect insects, and fully replace pesticide spraying.
The idea came from company founder Adam Stager, who previously created 3D-printed robots for security services. TRIC Robotics is working with four major strawberry producers and is developing a service model in which farmers do not buy the robots, but order the treatment as a turnkey service. This format speeds up adoption of the technology and lowers farmers’ costs. The company plans to expand its robot fleet and move on to other crops.
The development could change the industry: less chemicals in the soil and on consumers’ tables, greater resilience for farm businesses, and strawberries may eventually leave the notorious “Dirty Dozen” list.
