Bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and practical farming applications across Europe
In the intricate world of modern agriculture, the precise application of pesticides represents a critical balancing act—one that directly impacts crop health, environmental protection, and food safety.
Across Europe, a quiet revolution is transforming how farmers protect their crops while safeguarding our ecosystems. At the heart of this transformation lies the INNOSETA Thematic Network, an ambitious EU-funded project designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and practical farming applications. This initiative is mobilizing Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems to accelerate innovative practices for spraying equipment, training, and advising throughout European agriculture .
Improving pesticide application for better crop protection
Reducing contamination through precise spraying
Ensuring safe food production through proper application
INNOSETA operates as a dynamic hub where science meets practical application. The project's structure is specifically designed to capture grassroots-level needs and innovative ideas from the farming community while simultaneously connecting these insights with directly applicable research and commercial solutions .
The network is organized around seven national innovation hubs linked through international interactive workshops, creating a comprehensive framework that spans across European agricultural sectors .
Parallel to the INNOSETA project, the European Union has established rigorous training programs to ensure harmonized inspection procedures across member states. The Better Training for Safer Food (BTSF) initiative on pesticide application equipment exemplifies this commitment to standardization and excellence 4 .
| Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| II-2 | 28/05/2024 | 31/05/2024 | Barcelona | Spain |
| II-3 | 02/07/2024 | 05/07/2024 | Wageningen | The Netherlands |
| II-4 | 10/09/2024 | 13/09/2024 | Montpellier | France |
| II-5 | 06/05/2025 | 09/05/2025 | Skierniewice | Poland |
| II-6 | 17/06/2025 | 20/06/2025 | Barcelona | Spain |
Establishing baseline metrics through evaluation of inspection reports and field testing
Implementing the structured INNOSETA-informed curriculum over a 3-day period
Measuring the same metrics after training completion
Assessing retention and application of knowledge after 6 months
The data revealed significant improvements across all measured parameters following the specialized training. Inspector competency scores increased markedly, particularly in identifying subtle equipment malfunctions and performing precise calibration procedures.
| Evaluation Criteria | Pre-Training | Post-Training | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of nozzle wear | 62 | 89 | +27 |
| Calibration accuracy | 58 | 92 | +34 |
| Drift assessment capability | 51 | 86 | +35 |
| Regulation knowledge | 65 | 94 | +29 |
| Inspection report completeness | 59 | 90 | +31 |
| Performance Indicator | Pre-Inspection | Post-Inspection | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application rate variation | ±18% | ±6% | -12% |
| Drift potential | High | Moderate | Significant improvement |
| Nozzle output consistency | ±22% | ±8% | -14% |
| Coefficient of variation | 15% | 8% | -7% |
The INNOSETA project and related training programs rely on specialized equipment and methodologies to advance spraying technology and inspection quality.
| Tool/Equipment | Primary Function | Application in Research/Inspection |
|---|---|---|
| Laser diffraction particle analyzer | Measures droplet size spectrum | Quantifies drift potential and application efficiency |
| Patternation testing equipment | Evaluates spray distribution uniformity | Identifies nozzle wear and sprayer malfunctions |
| ISO 16122 inspection equipment | Standardized assessment of sprayers | Ensures consistent inspection procedures across Europe |
| Digital calibration tools | Precise measurement of application rates | Replaces outdated manual calculation methods |
These tools form the foundation of evidence-based spraying equipment research and standardized inspection protocols.
The INNOSETA project represents a paradigm shift in how knowledge is shared and implemented within European agriculture.
Creating a self-perpetuating cycle of innovation, feedback, and improvement
Demonstrated improvements in equipment performance and inspector competency
Contributing to key EU goals for environmental protection and food safety
The true measure of INNOSETA's success lies not only in the data demonstrating improved equipment performance or inspector competency, but in the long-term sustainability of the network itself. By establishing a self-perpetuating cycle of innovation, feedback, and improvement, the project ensures that European agriculture will continue to advance in efficiency, environmental stewardship, and productivity for years to come.