Farmers turn to tech as bees struggle to pollinate

Tech firm BloomX has developed a method to mechanically pollinate crops, similar to bees, reducing the dependence on commercial honeybees. Three out of every four crops grown worldwide are reliant on pollinators, with bees accounting for 75% of the pollination in the US and a similar percentage in Europe. However, bee populations are under pressure due to factors such as climate change, habitat loss, and pesticide use. BloomX’s technology is aimed at two crops – blueberries and avocados – and allows them to be pollinated even if local bee numbers are low.

The company’s main products are “Robee” and “Crossbee”, which are controlled by an AI-based software system linked to a mobile phone app. Both products are fitted with GPS tools to help farm workers know which areas have been treated. The technology is being used in South America, South Africa, Spain, the US, and Israel, with BloomX claiming it can increase fruit yields by 30%.

source: bbc.com