The newly launched PhotonicNet4Farming network of the PhotonicNet GmbH aims to initiate technology transfer solutions for current issues in the agricultural and food industry. The LZH is a key partner in this initiative.

The available tools for this come from the fields of photonics and optical technologies. The Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH) is particularly involved in the project via the Food and Farming group. The group is currently researching laser weed control and alternative methods for food processing. The LZH is also pursuing the topic of lightweight construction in agricultural engineering.

An increased social awareness of resource efficiency and sustainability and the associated directives of the legislator are changing the entire agricultural sector. In the network, photonic technologies are to be investigated for possible applications in the agricultural and food industry. In addition, the innovation potential of existing technologies will be identified and areas will be shown where innovations are urgently sought. Current challenges in this area include, for example, dealing with excessive nitrate inputs into agricultural soils, the planned ban on glyphosate for weed control and increasing herbicide resistances.

The PhotonicNet4Farming project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund.