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Revolutionising potato haulm destruction with crop.zone technology

As the agricultural sector moves away from chemical-based solutions, innovative technologies such as crop.zone leads the way in sustainable farming practices. A significant challenge in potato farming has been the destruction of potato haulm (the stems and leaves of the plant) as part of the pre-harvest process. Traditionally, this has been achieved using chemical desiccants such as diquat, but withdrawing these chemicals from the market has created a need for alternative methods. crop.zone offers a ground-breaking solution that not only meets this need but also improves the sustainability of farming practices.

crop.zone’s technology combines electrical energy and a conductive liquid solution to effectively desiccate potato tubers.

This method, known as Electro-Physical Disruption (EPD), uses the volt.apply system to deliver high voltage to the plants, disrupting their water transport system, resulting in rapid desiccation without the use of harmful chemicals. The volt.fuel solution, a vital component of the system, is specially formulated to reduce the electrical resistance of plants, making the technology efficient and effective.

The benefits of using crop.zone for haulm destruction are many. Firstly, it ensures that the process is residue-free, leaving no harmful chemicals in the soil or on the crop. This is crucial for farmers who are increasingly moving towards organic and sustainable farming practices. Moreover, the technology is designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing farm equipment, reducing the need for additional investment and making the transition process smooth and hassle-free.

From an operational perspective, crop.zone technology is not only effective, but also fast acting, which is essential in the tight harvest windows that characterise potato farming. It allows growers to manage their harvesting time more efficiently, ensuring that potatoes are harvested at the highest quality. In addition, the absence of chemical residues means that there is no need for a withholding period, so the potatoes can be harvested immediately after treatment, giving you the confidence of a smooth and efficient harvest.

Environmental sustainability is another key benefit of the crop zone system. By avoiding the use of chemical herbicides, the technology supports biodiversity and helps maintain soil health. It is in line with global efforts to reduce agriculture’s carbon footprint and promotes the well-being of the ecosystem surrounding farmland.

For farmers, adapting to crop.zone technology means staying ahead in a competitive market by adopting more efficient, sustainable and cost-effective farming practices. It is not just a tool for haulm destruction, but a crucial step towards future-proofing your farming operations against increasingly stringent environmental regulations, providing you with a secure and sustainable future in the industry.

In conclusion, crop.zone’s innovative approach to potato haulm removal provides an exemplary model of how modern technology can intersect with traditional farming to create more sustainable and productive agricultural practices. As the industry continues to evolve, technologies such as crop.zone will play a key role in shaping the future of agriculture. By adopting crop. zone technology, farmers are not only improving their immediate productivity and sustainability, but also contributing to the long-term health of their soil, the environment, and the agricultural industry as a whole.

The Crop.zone Advantage!

potato haulm destruction, also known as desiccation

In the realm of agricultural technology, crop.zone introduces a pioneering approach to potato haulm destruction, also known as desiccation. This method, crucial for the effective harvesting of potatoes, traditionally relies on chemical herbicides. However, crop.zone’s solution shifts this paradigm by eliminating the need for these chemicals, thereby offering a more environmentally friendly alternative.

The core of crop.zone’s innovation lies in its Hybrid Herbicide Technology, which combines electrical energy and a conductive liquid to desiccate plants efficiently. This method disrupts the water supply within the plant, causing it to dry out and die. This technology not only matches the effectiveness of chemical herbicides in speed and reliability but does so without leaving any harmful residues. As a result, crop.zone provides a significant ecotoxicological advantage by reducing the environmental and health risks associated with chemical use in agriculture.

From an ecological perspective, the advantages of crop.zone’s technology are manifold. Firstly, it significantly reduces groundwater contamination risks, a common issue with traditional herbicides that can leach into water sources. Secondly, it supports biodiversity by avoiding the adverse effects that chemical herbicides can have on non-target species, including beneficial insects and microorganisms essential for soil health.

potato haulm destruction, desiccation
potato haulm destruction, desiccation

Moreover, the technology promotes sustainability by aligning with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, which prioritize minimizing the use of chemical inputs. This approach is crucial in managing pesticide resistance, a growing concern in many agricultural regions. By providing an effective alternative to chemical methods, crop.zone helps farmers manage weeds and plant growth with less reliance on herbicides, thus contributing to a more sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

In addition, crop.zone’s method is highly adaptable and can be used across various stages of crop management, from initial growth control to preparation for harvest. This versatility makes it an attractive option for farmers looking for efficient, sustainable crop management solutions.

Finally, crop.zone’s technology reflects a commitment to innovation in the AGtech sector, offering a competitive edge in markets increasingly driven by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. As regulatory pressures increase and consumer preferences shift towards more sustainable products, crop.zone positions itself as a leader in next-generation agricultural solutions.

In summary, crop.zone’s Hybrid Herbicide Technology not only sets a new standard in plant desiccation but also demonstrates how innovative engineering can lead to practical, sustainable agricultural practices. By replacing chemical herbicides with a cleaner, equally effective alternative, crop.zone is paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future in agriculture.

Overview of Cotton Defoliation Methods

Chemical Defoliants:

  • Common Types: Ethephon, tribufos, dimethipin.
  • ESG Impact:** Generally negative. These chemicals can cause environmental damage through runoff and residue. They also pose health risks to workers due to exposure and are increasingly subject to regulatory scrutiny.

Mechanical Defoliation:

  • Common Types: Brushing machines, boll busters.
  • ESG Impact:Moderately negative. Mechanical methods consume significant energy and can lead to soil compaction and erosion. However, they eliminate chemical use, reducing the

Crop.zone’s Cotton Defoliation  Method

Technology Description:**

  • Crop.zone’s method for cotton defoliation combines conductive electricity with a biodegradable liquid solution. This method targets the physiological processes of the cotton plant to encourage natural leaf drop without the use of harmful chemicals.

ESG Scoring

  • Environmental: High score due to minimal chemical use and low energy consumption compared to traditional methods.
  • Social: Positive impact by significantly reducing health risks associated with chemical exposure.
  • Governance: Strong performance as crop.zone’s technology aligns with regulatory trends towards environmentally sustainable and worker-friendly agricultural practices.
Cotton Defoliation
Cotton Defoliation

 Comparative Analysis

Crop.zone’s technology offers a novel and sustainable alternative to traditional cotton defoliation methods. It addresses key environmental issues by reducing chemical dependency and conserves energy compared to mechanical methods. The social implications are also favourable, enhancing worker safety and health. Governance-wise, the innovative approach positions farms to better meet stringent environmental regulations.

In the realm of cotton production, the phase of defoliation is pivotal yet fraught with challenges pertaining to sustainability and environmental compliance. Traditional methods, while effective, often compromise our shared environmental responsibilities and pose significant health risks to our workers.

At crop.zone, we have pioneered a groundbreaking solution that redefines cotton defoliation. Our unique method merges the precision of conductive electricity with a proprietary, biodegradable liquid solution to facilitate a natural and efficient leaf drop. This approach eliminates the need for traditional chemical defoliants and reduces the physical footprint associated with mechanical methods.

From an ESG perspective, our technology stands out:

  • Environmental Impact: By avoiding synthetic chemicals, we prevent environmental contamination and reduce the ecological footprint of cotton farming.
  • Social Responsibility: Our method significantly curtails the health risks associated with chemical exposure, ensuring a safer work environment.
  • Governance Compliance: As global regulatory frameworks tighten around chemical use in agriculture, our technology ensures compliance, easing the regulatory burden for farmers.

The benefits extend beyond compliance and worker safety. By adopting crop.zone’s technology, cotton producers can enhance the quality of their crop, reduce costs associated with traditional defoliation methods, and position their operations at the forefront of sustainable agricultural practices.

We invite you to join us in this journey towards a more sustainable agriculture. By choosing crop.zone, you are not only optimizing your production processes but also contributing to a healthier planet and society.

Cotton Defoliation
Cotton Defoliation

Sustainability in Potato Desiccation Potato Desiccation Methods Overview

Chemical Desiccants:

  • Common Types: Sulfuric acid, diquat.
  • ESG Impact: Negative. Chemical methods pose environmental risks through runoff that can contaminate water sources. They also raise health and safety concerns for workers due to chemical exposure.

Mechanical Topping:

  • Common Types: Flail mowing.
  • ESG Impact: More neutral. This method reduces chemical use but increases carbon emissions and soil compaction due to the use of heavy machinery.

crop.zone’s Method Potato Desiccation

Technology Description:

  • crop.zone combines conductive electricity with a proprietary natural solution to accelerate the desiccation process.

ESG Scoring:

  • Environmental: High score. crop.zone’s method minimises environmental impact by reducing chemical use and lowering carbon emissions compared to traditional mechanical methods.
  • Social: Positive impact by enhancing worker safety with less exposure to harmful chemicals.
  • Governance: Favourable, as the innovative approach aligns with global sustainability goals and potentially improves regulatory compliance.

Comparative Analysis

Compared to traditional chemical and mechanical methods, crop.zone’s technology offers a more sustainable alternative for potato desiccation. By eliminating harsh chemicals and reducing mechanical soil disturbance, crop.zone provides an environmentally friendly solution that aligns well with increasing global sustainability demands. Furthermore, the reduction in chemical usage improves social aspects by safeguarding worker health and supports governance through compliance with stricter environmental regulations.

As we stand on the brink of a significant shift in agricultural practices, it is imperative that we reassess our methods for crop management, particularly in potato desiccation. Traditional methods have long relied on chemical and mechanical processes, each carrying its own environmental and societal impacts. However, the tides are turning towards more sustainable and responsible farming practices.

In this context, I would like to introduce you to a revolutionary method developed by crop.zone, designed to align with our collective pursuit of sustainability. Unlike conventional chemical desiccants, which pose risks to both the environment and human health, crop.zone uses a combination of conductive electricity and a natural solution. This method not only curtails the need for harmful chemicals but also significantly reduces carbon footprints compared to mechanical methods.

Evaluating through an ESG lens, crop.zone’s approach scores remarkably high on environmental considerations by mitigating pollution and enhancing soil health. Socially, it promotes a safer working environment free from chemical exposure. From a governance perspective, adopting such innovative methods can ease regulatory challenges and align operations with global sustainability targets.

It is crucial for us, as stewards of the land, to adopt practices that ensure the longevity and health of our soils and ecosystems. By embracing technologies like those offered by crop.zone, we are not only investing in our immediate agricultural needs but are also paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable agricultural future.

Let us lead the change by integrating more sustainable practices into our farming routines, ensuring that we meet our production needs without compromising the health of our planet or our communities.

Embracing Non-Chemical Oat Desiccation: Enhancing Sustainability and Market Value

In the realm of modern agriculture, the shift towards sustainable practices is more than a trend—it’s a necessity. For oat producers, this shift is underscored by the increasing demand for residue-free cereals, a market driven by consumer preferences for healthier and more environmentally friendly products. Crop.zone offers a compelling non-chemical solution for oat desiccation that aligns with these needs.

The Role of Non-Chemical Desiccation in Oat Production

Desiccation in oat farming traditionally involves the application of chemical agents to accelerate the drying of plant tissues, facilitating an easier and more timely harvest. However, this method often leaves chemical residues that can compromise both consumer health and environmental safety. Crop.zone’s innovative technology, which utilizes electrical currents and a conductive liquid, provides a residue-free alternative. This approach not only meets stringent market and regulatory demands but also preserves the integrity and natural quality of the harvested oats.

Advantages of Non-Chemical Desiccation

Switching to non-chemical methods offers numerous benefits for oat farmers:

  • Environmental Protection: By avoiding chemical sprays, farmers help preserve local wildlife and water quality, contributing to overall ecological health.
  • Consumer Safety: Residue-free oats are safer for consumption, appealing to health-conscious consumers and increasing the marketability of the crop.
  • Regulatory Compliance: As global regulations tighten concerning chemical residues in foods, non-chemical desiccation ensures compliance and avoids potential legal complications.
  • Soil Health: Reducing chemical usage helps maintain soil microbiome and fertility, which are critical for the long-term sustainability of oat cultivation.

Implementing Crop.zone’s Solution

Integrating Crop.zone’s technology into existing farming operations is streamlined. The system is compatible with standard farming equipment and is designed for easy adoption, minimizing disruption to current practices. Moreover, the technology is supported by comprehensive training and resources, ensuring that farm operators can maximize its potential without a steep learning curve.

The Economic and Social Impact

By adopting non-chemical desiccation techniques, oat farmers not only enhance their environmental stewardship but also position their products more favorably in the marketplace. Residue-free oats often command higher prices, reflecting their added value in terms of health and sustainability. Additionally, by leading in responsible farming practices, oat producers can strengthen their brand and build trust with consumers who are increasingly supportive of sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion

The move towards non-chemical oat desiccation is a critical step forward for the agricultural sector. Crop.zone’s technology provides an effective solution that meets the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and market demand for clean, safe cereals. By adopting this technology, oat farmers can ensure the longevity of their farming operations while contributing positively to environmental conservation and consumer health. This approach not only future-proofs their business but also supports a healthier planet and populace.

A Leap Towards Non-Chemical Practices

As the agricultural industry moves towards sustainable farming practices, the focus on reducing chemical usage has intensified. Among the key areas of interest is cotton defoliation, a critical process that prepares the crop for efficient harvesting by removing leaves from the cotton plants. Traditional chemical defoliants, while effective, pose risks to the environment and human health due to their residue and potential for runoff. Enter crop.zone’s non-chemical solution—a promising alternative that aligns with modern agricultural needs.

Understanding Non-Chemical Cotton Defoliation

Crop.zone has introduced a novel approach to cotton defoliation that eschews traditional chemical methods. This technology leverages electrical currents and a conductive liquid to effectively remove leaves from cotton plants. The process involves applying a conductive solution to the plants, which then allows a controlled electric current to pass through, disrupting the plant tissues responsible for leaf attachment. This method ensures a quick and efficient defoliation process without the chemical residue associated with conventional methods.

Benefits of Non-Chemical Methods

The advantages of adopting a non-chemical approach to cotton defoliation are manifold, particularly for forward-thinking farming professionals:

  • Environmental Sustainability: By eliminating harmful chemicals, farmers contribute to reducing pollution and protecting biodiversity.
  • Regulatory Compliance: With increasing regulations on chemical use, non-chemical defoliation ensures compliance and avoids potential fines.
  • Improved Soil Health: Without chemical inputs, soil health is preserved, enhancing the overall productivity and sustainability of the land.
  • Market Appeal: Products grown with fewer chemicals are increasingly demanded by consumers, providing farmers with a competitive edge in the market.

Practical Implementation

Integrating crop.zone’s technology into existing farming operations is straightforward. The system is designed to be compatible with standard agricultural equipment, minimizing the need for additional investment. Training and support from crop.zone ensure that farm staff can adeptly manage the technology, maximizing its effectiveness and ensuring a smooth transition from traditional methods.

Looking Forward

The shift to non-chemical cotton defoliation is not just about adopting new technology; it’s about rethinking our approach to agriculture to ensure it is sustainable for future generations. Crop.zone’s innovative solution represents a significant step in this direction, offering an effective alternative that meets the needs of both today’s markets and tomorrow’s environmental standards.

In conclusion, embracing non-chemical cotton defoliation technology is not merely a regulatory or environmental decision but a strategic business move. By adopting crop.zone’s advanced solutions, cotton farmers can enhance their crop quality, comply with global standards, and contribute positively to environmental conservation, setting a new standard in agricultural practices.

Revolutionizing Potato Desiccation

In the agricultural sector, the pursuit of sustainability and efficiency is relentless, particularly in essential crops like potatoes. As environmental concerns and regulations tighten, the shift towards non-chemical approaches in crop management practices has become paramount. One innovative solution leading this transformation is crop.zone’s Hybrid Herbicide Technology, which offers a groundbreaking non-chemical desiccation method.

Desiccation, the process of artificially accelerating the drying of plant tissues to expedite harvesting, traditionally relies heavily on chemical herbicides. However, the residual effects of these chemicals pose significant environmental and health risks. Crop.zone’s technology sidesteps these issues entirely by employing a combination of electrical energy and a conductive liquid solution, presenting a clean, residue-free alternative.

Potato Desiccation
Potato Desiccation

The Technology Behind Non-Chemical Desiccation

The core of crop.zone’s system includes the volt.cube, volt.apply, and volt.fuel components. The volt.cube generates electrical power from a tractor’s mechanical energy, which is then used to drive a current through the crops via the volt.apply applicators. The volt.fuel, a specially formulated conductive liquid, is applied to the plants to reduce their electrical resistance, facilitating the efficient transfer of electricity. This method disrupts the water supply within the plants, causing them to dry out and die back without the use of harmful chemicals.

Benefits for Farming Professionals

For farming professionals, the adoption of crop.zone’s Hybrid Herbicide Technology means several improvements over traditional methods:

  • Environmental Protection: No chemical residues are left in the soil or on the crops, safeguarding local ecosystems and water supplies.
  • Regulatory Compliance: As global regulations on chemical use become stricter, this technology ensures compliance and avoids the risk of penalties.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Reducing chemical use also cuts down on costs associated with purchasing and handling herbicides.
  • Crop Quality and Safety: Products free from chemical residues meet the increasing market demand for clean, safe, and high-quality agricultural products.
  • Ease of Use: The system integrates seamlessly with existing farming equipment, making the transition smooth and straightforward.

Meeting the Challenges of Modern Agriculture

As the agricultural industry evolves, the pressure to increase efficiency while reducing environmental impact continues to grow. Crop.zone’s non-chemical desiccation technology not only meets these modern demands but also offers a practical solution that enhances the sustainability of farming practices. By reducing dependency on chemical herbicides, farmers can ensure a safer, more sustainable future for agriculture.

Conclusion

For potato growers, embracing crop.zone’s Hybrid Herbicide Technology represents a forward-thinking step towards more sustainable, efficient, and safe agricultural practices. As the industry moves away from chemical dependence, such innovations not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enhance the economic viability of farming operations.

Embracing this technology could very well be the key to future-proofing our agricultural practices and ensuring that we continue to produce enough to meet the world’s needs without compromising the health of our planet or ourselves.

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Cropzone_Traktor-6

dirk_vandenhirtz, veröffentlicht am 07.02.2024

Arguments against the European Commission’s recent decision to re-approve glyphosate

1. Cherry-picking of science: Regulators accepted incomplete dossiers from industry and overlooked critical toxicity studies, resulting in an incomplete risk assessment. This approach systematically excluded non-industry studies and ignored important scientific evidence from academia, which often more accurately reflects the toxicity of pesticides.

2. Cancer risk ignored: Despite new studies confirming glyphosate’s carcinogenic potential, such as a study by the Ramazzini Institute showing blood cancers in rats after long-term exposure, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) failed to classify glyphosate accordingly, missing an opportunity to potentially ban it.

3. Genotoxicity concerns: ECHA’s 2021 assessment did not convincingly demonstrate that glyphosate is not genotoxic. Independent studies point to its genotoxic potential, but no new studies were requested by the authorities and too much reliance was placed on industry studies that were considered less sensitive.

4. Overlooking neurotoxicity: Glyphosate’s effects on the nervous system and brain, including possible links to Parkinson’s disease, have not been thoroughly assessed. Critical studies, including those on developmental neurotoxicity, were not considered.

5. Impact on the microbiome: Glyphosate, also known as an antibiotic, adversely affects the microbiome of humans and other species, which could explain the reported neurotoxicity and reproductive toxicity. However, the EU risk assessment neglected evidence on glyphosate’s effects on the microbiome due to a lack of standardised regulatory guidance.

6. Wildlife toxicity under-reported: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) failed to disclose information on glyphosate’s toxicity to insects, birds and amphibians, ignoring key studies showing harm and compromising regulatory decisions.

7. Lack of comprehensive testing: Despite legal requirements, no long-term study of glyphosate-based herbicides has been submitted to assess their impact on health and the environment. EFSA’s inability to assess all co-formulants in a representative formulation is contrary to pesticide legislation.

These findings highlight a systemic failure to meet legal standards in pesticide risk assessment and underline the need for regulatory reform to ensure a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of the health and environmental impacts of pesticides.Bitte hier den Newstext einfügen…

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Glyphosate vs. crop.zone

Glyphosate facts:

  • Since its introduction in 1974, the annual quantity of Glyphosate used worldwide has increased by a factor of around 265*
  • With annual sales of around 770 thousand tonnes in the agricultural sector, every tenth hectare of arable land can be treated with an average glyphosate application rate.*
  • Europe’s share of global consumption of Glyphosate is 4 % or around 35 thousand tonnes per year

*Source Bayerische Landesanstalt für Landwirtschaft www.lfl.bayern.de 

Specific energy use: crop.zone – glyphosate 

  • Specific energy use of the active ingredient per hectare is about 70 % lower for crop.zone.
  • Comparison based on 2023 data for oats preharvest weed control and desiccation

Energy for oats desiccation 

  • The energy required is based on the power output required depending on maturity.
  • Maturity varies across the field in patches and tramlines, for example depending on the season, there may be higher or lower, still fairly green grains on a single plant.
  • The greener grains are the main danger of glyphosate uptake, both in the end product for humans and the small vegetarian mammals/insects in the field.
  • The crop.zone system automatically adjusts itself to the degree of ripeness for each individual applicator.
  • Typical maturity levels at the time of oats sowing require an average of around 9 kWh/ha of energy.

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dirk_vandenhirtz, veröffentlicht am 16.01.2024

Glyphosate residue in food – alternative crop desiccation

Glyphosate, the main ingredient in the herbicide Roundup, is central to the control of weed growth in various crops, particularly corn and soybeans. It works by inhibiting the production of essential amino acids in plants, thereby controlling weed growth. Meanwhile, GM crops resistant to Roundup thrive despite its use.

In non-GMO crops such as oats, glyphosate is used for desiccation at harvest to improve both quality and yield. However, the use of glyphosate as a desiccant is leading to potential residues in products such as oatmeal and cereals.

Crop.zone technology: A sustainable alternative

Crop.zone offers a novel solution to this challenge. Its technology uses a combination of electrical energy and a naturally conductive liquid to control weeds, providing an effective alternative to chemical desiccation of crops. This method significantly reduces reliance on glyphosate and other chemical herbicides, minimising their residues in food products.


Benefits of the crop.zone approach

  • Reduced chemical residues: By avoiding the use of glyphosate, crop.zone’s technology ensures that harvested crops have minimal to no chemical residues, meeting the demands of health-conscious consumers.
  • Environmental sustainability: This technology is more environmentally friendly than traditional herbicides, reducing soil and water contamination and promoting biodiversity.