Field of action

Digibiocontrol is positioned as a strategic lever for innovation in Walloon agriculture, combining digital and biological advances to foster a sustainable and resilient agricultural model.

The Digibiocontrol Strategic Innovation Initiative (SII) is a program launched by Wallonia, as part of its research and innovation drive for sustainable agriculture. Its main objective is to encourage and support the development of new digital and biotechnological solutions for integrated crop management, particularly in terms of biocontrol.

1- Background and objectives

Digibiocontrol aims to transform agricultural crop management by integrating innovative digital technologies (sensors, artificial intelligence, big data, etc.) and biocontrol approaches, i.e. the use of biological methods to protect crops against pests and diseases, as an alternative to chemical pesticides. This program is part of a trend towards more sustainable, environmentally-friendly agriculture, focused on reducing the impact of chemical inputs.

• Digibiocontrol's specific objectives include :
• Reducing the use of chemical pesticides in agriculture.
• Improving the competitiveness and sustainability of farms.
• Promote the development of precision agriculture through adapted digital tools.
• Encourage the transition to more environmentally-friendly farming practices, while maintaining high yields.

2- Main areas of action

a- Digital technologies for agriculture

Digibiocontrol focuses on the integration of digital technologies at the service of agriculture. This includes :

• The use of sensors in fields to monitor crop condition, environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, etc.) and the presence of pests or diseases in real time.
• The processing of agricultural data through analysis tools based on artificial intelligence (AI) and big data, in order to propose precise and personalized solutions for crop management.
• The development of digital applications and platforms enabling farmers to effectively monitor and manage their crops, anticipate risks and make informed decisions.

b- Biocontrol

Biocontrol is at the heart of Digibiocontrol's approach. It involves natural methods for controlling pests, diseases and weeds, and is based on :

• The use of living organisms, such as natural insect predators of pests.
• The introduction of beneficial micro-organisms (bacteria, fungi) to enhance plant health.
• Using natural substances (plant extracts, pheromones) to repel or control pests.
• Reinforcing plant defense mechanisms through innovative biological solutions.

c- Precision agriculture

The initiative incorporates the principles of precision agriculture, aimed at optimizing farming practices through fine, localized management of plots. This is achieved by using data collected by sensors and monitoring systems, to provide recommendations on:

• Phytosanitary treatments, minimizing their quantity and frequency.
• Water and fertilizer inputs according to the plant's real needs, while maximizing resource efficiency.

d- Synergies between biotechnologies and digital technology

Digibiocontrol promotes a holistic approach in which digital technologies support biocontrol methods, enabling early detection of problems, constant monitoring and real-time intervention:

Early diagnosis of diseases using digital tools combined with biocontrol practices.

Modeling and simulation of pest risks for proactive prevention.

Assisted decision-making tools for choosing biocontrol solutions adapted to the specific situations of agricultural plots.

3- Environmental and socio-economic impact

One of Digibiocontrol's fundamental aims is to promote a positive environmental impact, by reducing dependence on chemical inputs and limiting soil and water pollution. In parallel, the initiative aims to:

• Increase the resilience of agricultural systems to climatic hazards and environmental changes.
• Reduce production costs by limiting phytosanitary treatments and optimizing resources (water, fertilizers).
• Encourage local and regional innovation by stimulating scientific and technological research in the field of sustainable agriculture.

4- Collaboration and partnerships

The initiative is based on collaboration between various players, including :

• Research centers and universities, to develop the necessary digital and biotechnological tools.
• Agricultural businesses and farmers, who are the end-users of the innovations.
• Technology companies specializing in the development of sensors, analysis tools and digital solutions.
• Public authorities, to support and supervise innovations within the framework of current regulations.

5- Future prospects

The Digibiocontrol initiative aims to prepare Walloon agriculture for the challenges of the future, by creating an ecosystem where farming practices are more environmentally-friendly, more efficient and economically viable. In the long term, it could become a model for other regions and contribute to the transformation of agriculture on a European scale.