Solution uses machine learning in time series of satellite images to detect areas that employ the material
One of the most efficient techniques in agriculture to protect plantations, improve productivity and reduce agrochemical application is the use of plasticiculture in different agricultural productions. Therefore, plastic products have been employed on a large scale in the field for a few decades. This material, however,, while driving agricultural production, without proper management represents a large environmental challenge.
This scenario took a group of researchers from the (), supported by FAPESP and Braskem, to develop a remote sensing system to detect agricultural areas that adopt plasticulture in management. The solution uses machine learning in time series of satellite image to detect areas with agricultural plastic, accurately close to 100%.
One of the main focuses of research is the detection of mulchinga technique that uses polyethylene film to reduce weed growth, control moisture and soil temperature. With it, the plantation has what it needs just right: brightness, water and nutrients.
On the other hand, the mulchingwhich should be exchanged with each new crop, can contribute to agricultural plastic pollution. The method uses less plastic than greenhouses, but has greater environmental pollution potential. “The greenhouse, in turn, is maintained for four or five years. In addition, the mulching is in direct contact with the land and, if managed incorrectly, can leave pieces ”says Marlon Fernandes de Souza, research researcher.
According to the Agricultural Engineer Environmental, in some places, the material used in agriculture is becoming a big problem, mainly due to improper disposal after use. “Our project seeks to determine the amount of waste produced and propose solutions to manage it sustainably.”
Before the study, there was no precise survey about the areas they use mulching In Brazil – Not even the industry has this data. “The first step was to find out where the plastic is used and how much”it says. “Until then, the information was fragmented. With satellite images, we were able to delimit these areas and obtain data accurately close to 100%. ”
Research with the use of satellite images to detect plastics are more common in sea areas. “After global warming, which we have not yet resolved, many consider that the biggest environmental problem today is plastic pollution”says Souza. The project, by dedicating itself to agricultural environments, represents a possibility of helping to change the way the segment deals with this type of material.
In the evaluation of the researcher, the study conducted by the CEP and in the scientific journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research It represents an important step for the promotion of plastics circularity in Brazilian agriculture. “As a reliable methodology offers agricultural plastic waste mapping, it can help minimize the impacts of environmental degradation.”
Reverse logistics
One of the biggest global challenges of proper plastic management used in agriculture is the lack of infrastructure for the collection and recycling of the material, especially in remote regions. “In some locations, the nearest installation is over 1,000 km away, which makes reverse logistics economically unfeasible.”
The CEP group does not collect the identified Descartes, but the survey by researchers allows you to analyze the feasibility of installing reverse logistics systems. From the results, it is possible to evaluate whether the creation of regional recycling plants is viable or if it is better to establish a transport system to bring the waste to more distant recycling centers.
The absence of a structured collection and recycling system of agricultural plastic has led many producers to adopt improvised solutions. “Unfortunately, there are still many producers who maintain huge piles of waste because they don’t know what to do with them. In some cases, the material remains accumulated for years, as no one can collect it. ”
This is more common among small producers, who do not have negotiation power or enough disposal volume to attract recyclers interested in collecting the material. “Most major producers can negotiate collection with recycling companies, but the little ones don’t have this advantage. They then accumulate large volumes of plastic without knowing how to intend them correctly. ”
Research can contribute to the development of public policies and more efficient waste management systems. One of the options is the creation of a reverse logistics model similar to the Campo Limpo system, which collects empty packaging of pesticides. In this system, producers return empty packaging when they will buy new products.
Thus, the ideal would be to create a similar system for agricultural plastic films. “The implementation of this type of solution requires the creation of public policies and the involvement of the entire value chain. Our research aims to provide the necessary information so that this type of initiative is viable ”he explains.
Lack of legislation
The lack of specific legislation for plastic management is a growing concern in agriculture. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) discusses voluntary conduct codes for plastic management in the segment. Even so, the future is still uncertain. “Up to 10 years ago there was virtually no similar research. Today there are debates on best practices and recommendations, but there is no clear regulation for practice yet. ”
Souza points out that the objective of the project is to seek solutions so that the use of plastic in agriculture brings benefits without causing damage to the environment.
“The goal is to find ways to use this material in a way that does not cause environmental problems. This discussion is happening now: this year, there were several United Nations conferences to deal with this theme specifically. ”
With information from.
