The project will evaluate the effect of ultraviolet light (UV-C) in inducing plant defence mechanisms capable of preventing or delaying the attack of pests and pathogens in vineyards in the region, without compromising the plant and auxiliary fauna and reducing the use of synthetic chemical phytopharmaceuticals.
Main objectives/Activities
Construction of a prototype for applying UV-C light, which can be attached
to agricultural equipment used in commercial vineyards
Development of a forecasting model, based on meteorological conditions and the life cycles of the organisms responsible for the main pests/diseases, for more accurate/effective application of treatments
Selection of the most effective dose/frequency of application for reducing the incidence of
pests and diseases
Supported by the Promove Programme of the ‘la Caixa’ Foundation, in collaboration with BPI and the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT).
