An important initiative in the field of agrotechnology is being implemented by the Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH), as the lead partner in the #DigiAgriFood the first European Digital Innovation Hub in the Hellenic Agri-food sector, through the installation of smart insect traps in selected agricultural areas of the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (EMTh).
The traps, which integrate sensor technologies, artificial intelligence, and telemetry, aim to collect data on the presence and density of harmful insect populations. Through this process, farmers gain access to early warnings and can make targeted crop protection decisions, reducing the use of pesticides and contributing to environmental sustainability.
This action is part of a broader strategy to digitize agriculture and transition to a more sustainable and efficient agricultural model.
The objective is to establish a modern monitoring network for insect populations using innovative technologies, offering precise information to producers, helping to reduce production costs and strengthen agricultural productivity.
In total, 20 insect traps have been installed so far in key agricultural areas:
- To monitor the population of the European grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana), a major pest of vineyards, delta traps were installed in vineyards in Kavala (Elaiochori, Moushteni, Myrtofyto) and in the Xanthi region.
- To monitor the population of the cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera), a key pest of cotton crops, traps were installed in cotton fields in the Evros and Rhodope regional units.
This initiative marks another step forward in promoting smart farming and highlights the role of the #DigiAgriFood Hub in providing innovative support for the primary sector.
