InnerPlant’s Genetic Engineering Technology Reduces Agricultural Waste and Carbon Emissions

The agricultural industry may appear green in appearance but contributes significantly to global carbon emissions. Agriculture accounts for at least 10% of the total worldwide emission of greenhouse gases as stated by a report from EPA’s Environmental Protection Agency published in 2021. Moreover, up to 40% of most food crops are lost due to diseases and pests annually according to data provided by National Institute of Food and Agriculture in its 2023 analysis. Various firms like SatAgro, Climate FieldView, as well as a California-based startup named InnerPlant aim at minimizing agricultural waste through genetic engineering technology. The technique employs fluorescents that emit signals when plants encounter distress such as fungal pressure or insects’ attack in their leaves; these indications are detectable from satellite-mounted devices, drones, and tractors used by farmers for surveillance purposes. By interpreting the signal produced due to stresses on crops, farmers can determine which areas of fields require treatment while avoiding unnecessary chemical applications that could be overused up to 30%. This approach not only helps in saving money but also minimizes wasteful use of chemicals and their associated costs. InnerPlant’s technology is highly scalable since it may potentially be licensed by major seed firms, thereby generating royalty income for the company while significantly benefiting farmers as well. According to Tom Biegala from investment firm Bison Ventures which backs InnerPlant, if this innovation can penetrate every single corn and soybean acre in North America and South America, it could result in substantial revenue generation due to its widespread adoption potential. The company has secured $22.3 million through funding rounds that have attracted the participation of various investors such as John Deere, MS&AD Ventures, UpWest VC, Bee Partners, etc., among others. Presently InnerPlant is working closely with small farmers and major agricultural producers to provide them early access to this technology which will initially be available for soybeans before expanding its scope further into other crops as well. Some of these entities have already paid a premium price in order to avail the benefits offered by InnerPlant’s breakthrough innovation.