Author: Crop Protection

A recent study published in Nature has underscored the significant environmental and socioeconomic benefits of Brazil’s second-crop corn ethanol production system. Conducted by Agroicone in collaboration with experts from MIT, UNICAMP, and Dartmouth College, the research highlights the system’s alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its role in advancing global sustainability efforts. The study delved into the impacts of Brazil’s burgeoning corn ethanol industry, which has seen rapid growth since its inception. By 2024, Brazil’s second-crop corn ethanol production had reached 6.3 billion litres, with forecasts suggesting an increase to between 13 and 15 billion litres by 2032, according…

Danone and Ajinomoto Co., Inc. have announced a strategic global partnership aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the dairy industry. This collaboration will see the implementation of Ajinomoto’s AjiPro®-L, a cutting-edge lysine formulation designed to minimise the environmental impact of milk production. Ajinomoto Co.’s AjiPro®-L is a groundbreaking solution that enhances lysine absorption in cattle. Lysine is a crucial amino acid that can improve feed efficiency and reduce costs. This innovative product not only aids in better nutrient absorption but also plays a significant role in decreasing GHG emissions from dairy farming. As part of Danone’s “Partner for…

Fruit Attraction, the premier international trade fair for the fruit and vegetable sector, will host its 16th edition from 8 to 10 October in Madrid, with the highest participation levels in its history. Organised by IFEMA MADRID and FEPEX, the event will feature Andalusia as its Guest Region and is set to attract more than 100,000 trade visitors from 145 countries. With 2,146 exhibiting companies from 56 nations, Fruit Attraction 2024 has seen a 7% increase in participation compared to last year, spread over 70,000 square metres at the Madrid Trade Fair Centre. This year marks the first time the…

The Temple of Poseidon at Sounion was the focal point of a stunning lighting event last night, September 16, 2024, blending Greece’s ancient heritage with modern artistry. The event, which attracted political figures, artists, and international media, was broadcast live to audiences worldwide, showcasing the enduring importance of Greece’s cultural monuments. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni were among the distinguished guests attending the ceremony. Their presence underscored the significance of Greece’s heritage and the country’s ongoing efforts to promote it on the global stage. International representatives from the worlds of politics and the arts also…

Mining giant Rio Tinto has announced plans to develop Pongamia seed farms in Australia as part of a new biofuels pilot aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The project will explore the potential of Pongamia seed oil as a feedstock for renewable diesel, which offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil-based diesel. The pilot will focus on whether Pongamia seed oil can meet Rio Tinto’s renewable diesel requirements and contribute to the growth of Australia’s emerging biofuel sector. Rio Tinto is currently finalising the acquisition of 3,000 hectares of cleared land near Townsville, in north Queensland, where the company…

Upfield Group B.V., a leading global food brand, has announced its rebranding as Flora Food Group B.V. The name change, which takes effect immediately at the corporate level, signals a significant milestone in the company’s transformation. It reflects a broader purpose and a strategic shift towards offering sustainable, nutritious food alternatives. The decision to adopt the Flora Food Group name follows a performance-driven restructuring across the entire organisation. The company, known for its plant-based products, aims to capitalise on four key global trends: population growth, the rising demand for dairy-alternative solutions, animal welfare concerns, and increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Flora…

EZVIZ, a prominent name in smart home technology, has unveiled its latest innovation, the RS20 Pro, setting a new standard in home cleaning automation. The RS20 Pro aims to minimise human involvement in cleaning tasks with its advanced features designed for both hard floors and carpets. The RS20 Pro integrates EZVIZ’s cutting-edge robotic technology, boasting several notable innovations. Key among these is its automatic mop installation and detachment system, alongside a 3-in-1 self-cleaning roller brush. The robot also features auto-lifting side brushes and dynamic edge mopping capabilities. A multifunctional charging station enhances the user experience by automatically emptying dust, washing…

MidOcean Energy, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) company formed and managed by EIG, has announced a significant expansion of its stake in Peru LNG (PLNG), following an agreement with Hunt Oil Company. The deal will see MidOcean acquire an additional 15% interest in PLNG from Hunt, raising its overall share to 35%. This development further strengthens MidOcean’s position in the global LNG market. Aramco played a crucial role in facilitating the transaction by providing the necessary funding and conducting technical and commercial due diligence. Aramco’s involvement will result in an increase in its ownership of MidOcean to 49%, while its…

Two leaders in agritech, GAMAYA and Terraview, have announced a merger aimed at revolutionising sustainability in global food production. The merged entity will operate under the GAMAYA brand and will combine the companies’ expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) to address critical challenges such as decarbonisation and water efficiency in agriculture. Both companies bring significant technological leadership to the table. GAMAYA’s flagship product ‘CanaSight’ has been a key tool for sugarcane growers across Brazil, Latin America, the USA, Africa, and India, helping farmers monitor and optimise crop performance. In addition, GAMAYA’s new product ‘CanaTrace’ enables the decarbonisation of sugarcane farming through…

The Vegetarian Society has unveiled its manifesto for change, calling for a major overhaul of the UK’s food system. The national charity, which campaigns for plant-based living, is urging policymakers to take immediate action to address the environmental, health, and animal welfare impacts caused by current food production and consumption patterns. The manifesto highlights the pressing need for change, placing climate, biodiversity, public health, and animal welfare at the forefront of the UK’s relationship with food. It outlines a series of policy recommendations, ranging from tax reforms to changes in food labelling, with the goal of making plant-based, sustainable food…