SPRAYTEC MAGAZINE 04 ING

EDITORIAL New Times We have already started a new year: 2024 brings us many changes and challenges worldwide, new horizons and greater commitments. That’s what we like, to propose constant growth, to arrive in new areas of the world, to be hand in hand with producers, to be their advisors and trusted individuals when proposing a productive approach.

We are here to dream big. Our Spraytec family allows us to make that dream a reality.

There are many of us pulling this huge cart, battling and overcoming the obstacles that appear along the way. I feel them all as my family, I can trust them and sustain this company, always thinking about going for more!

In this edition, we will get to know part of our team around the world: Australia, with a beautiful city, home to Spraytec, Perth. The details of a beautiful place, in a country worth knowing.

The profile is of Florencia Fernandez Buzzini, commercial technical support, Marketing, Argentina. She claims that her parents are the reference points of her life.

The use of drones in agriculture seems to have come to stay, as they offer us multiple utilities, such as field mapping, monitoring, and crop surveys, among others. Facundo Menta explains how the application of phytosanitary products via drones works.

Nuala Szler shares a very interesting report about olive oil: its production, its benefits, and a tradition that is renewed day by day worldwide. The origin, harvest year, and expiration date are important. Since olive oil is not a long-lasting product, its quality is higher the closer it is consumed to the harvest date, did you know?

Agricultural Engineer Dr. Julio R. Fagliari, who has been part of the Spraytec family for 24 years, is part of the Research Department of Grupo Agrolatina and speaks to us from Brazil about Fulltec Max, a cutting-edge product with disruptive technology. The multifunctional adjuvant Fulltec Max has been a pioneer in plant protection.

The interview is with Sabri Can Andac, an agronomist with 10 years of experience in different areas of agriculture, who works as Country Manager of Spraytec Turkey (Spraytec Gübre Ticaret Anonim Şirketi).

Finally, Mariano Larrazabal, a consultant in digital agromarketing, details from Spain the role that social media plays in an agricultural company. Do you have a social media plan or strategy? Being at the forefront when it comes to adapting to new times.

As in every issue, the Snapshots, those photos that show Spraytec in the global context, the great family of work, dreams, and projects.

Thanks to everyone for being part of it!

Until the next edition!

Diego Parodi President of Spraytec

Editorial New Times By: Diego Parodi

04

Identikit Flor Fernandez Buzzini

14

Report

Olive oil: its production, its benefits, and a tradition that renews itself Por: Nuala Szler

20

06

Territorial Roots

FULLTEC MAX: SUSTAINABLE EVOLUTION By: Agricultural Engineer Dr. Julio R. Fagliari - Research Department, Agrolatina Group

24

Research

10

Interview with Sabri Can Andac “Offering new technology made me very excited as an agronomist and a farmer myself” Por: Juan Carlos Grasa

SUMMARY

02

PERTH, Australia occidental

Report

The Agro Social Networks By: Mariano Larrazabal

26

Research Phytosanitary application via Drones By: Agr. Eng. (Specialized) Facundo Menta

30

General Production: Horizonte A editions

Snapshots

3

FLOR

IDENTIKIT 1. What position do you hold in the company?

I´m in Marketing as a Commercial Technical Support.

2. Would you have liked to live off something else?

When I was younger, I liked.

Today, among other things, I give lectures chemistry of the products we sell, and I love it! I found my place in the world. We can say then: wish fulfilled!

3. How do you imagine your life in 10 years?

Working and traveling with Spraytec, meeting and training people. I love social relationships. Showing what we do to the world.

4. Best reason to smile?

Waking up. Having the joy, in any way, of waking up to a new day.

5. A role model in life?

My parents: an example of struggle, work, and perseverance.

6. A brand?

Spraytec... obviously!

7. An Argentine pride?

Pope Francis.

8. What did Ana’s arrival

4

mean?

It was surprising and at the same time perfect, as everything that is written, right?

We are an indestructible duo. Ana is a gift from heaven, from God. And I foolishly thought that I had given her life... She gave it to me! She awakened a love that I didn’t know could be felt. Unlocked an extraordinary level of love and dedication.

9. If you could time travel, who would you like to meet?

Hmm. I never thought about it. But now that you mention it... Without a doubt, 2024 years ago, Bethlehem... To the Holy Family. I would like to contemplate that birth...

Hug tightly and ask that Mom so many things.

10. Something everyone should have?

A DOG, or two or three or ten.

There are no limits. If I get more selective... a rescued greyhound: Menta, my dog.

FERNA 12. Which Spraytec product do you like to show the most during demonstrations?

Optimix, of course. It’s pure magic, and I also feel it’s a bit like my child.

13. Flor Fernandez?

Hmm... simple, friendly, family-oriented... Chameleon-like, we could say. I face and adapt to setbacks, and I always try to bring out the positive. I am very sentimental, and I also like to be right, ha.

14. If you had to organize an expedition to the desert with Spraytec colleagues, who would you take, knowing that they will go through extreme situations.

- To carry things?: Lautaro Tesan... total training. Pure composure and service vocation. Always ready to help.

11. Could you recommend a series?

- To cook?: Lucas Gomez, the best in alchemy and cooking.

Hmm. Between motherhood, work, and daily chaos, I don’t watch many series. But I will tell you my favorite movie: Forrest Gump. I watch it at least twice a year.

- To manage provisions?: Leandro Acosta, without any doubt. With his administration, what is meant for a month can sustain us for six months easily, and I’m not

R

Spraytec GLOBAL

ANDEZ BUZZINI sure if that’s not an understatement; he’s more frugal than Caesar. I would also take him to manage Leandro a bit! With this duo, we won’t fail; we’ll pass the expedition with a surplus! They are everything that any good management needs.

- To bring calm in difficult times?: My friend Francisca Villa, I said friend, not a Spraytec colleague... with all that a great friendship symbolizes. And I’ll also add Pame, my best friend and life sister; I couldn’t not take her. She’s used to extreme situations with me. Everyone knows her; I take her wherever I go. We’ve been friends since we were six, can you imagine? Not only she brings calm, joy, hugs, advice (that I don’t listen to)... she accompanies me, fixes and patches up my life forever.

- To coordinate the group?: Can I have two? Because they are the helmsmen of this ship: Pablo Lafuente and Mariano Meineri.

Identikit 5

RESEARCH

FULLTEC MAX: SUSTAI Agricultural Engineer Dr. Julio R. Fagliari Research Department, Agrolatina Group

I

n recent decades, science, technology, and innovation, along with the availability of natural resources, have turned Brazil into a major player in the production and export of agricultural products. The challenges of sustainable growth in agribusiness to meet the growing demand for water, food, and energy require constant evolution and the application of smart practices. The technological race for higher productivity associated with sustainable development has intensified in recent years, and with this advancement,

6

For three decades, the multifunctional adjuvant Fulltec Max has been a pioneer in plant protection, thanks to its cuttingedge product with disruptive technology. new problems related to phytosanitary management have emerged. To address this demand, Spraytec took the lead by investing significantly in research and development in the evolution of Fulltec Max, a precursor and leader in multifunctional adjuvants in Brazil.

Phytosanitary products are essential inputs for the agricultural production system, as when properly applied, they are effective in managing pests, diseases, and weeds, preventing economic damage. Improving

efficiency in the application of these inputs and consequently the safety of the applicator and the environment will be achieved through evolution in the application process in its various aspects. Although pesticide application has been an operation carried out for several decades, it is one of the activities that has experienced the least innovation in this period, even though it is carried out with a high degree of empiricism. In contrast, the use of phytosanitary products requires high technology and must be applied with maximum effec-

Spraytec GLOBAL

INABLE EVOLUTION tiveness and safety.

Low efficiency in the phytosanitary control process, in most cases, leads to an increase in the number of applications, an increase in the doses used, and the loss of productivity and profitability of crops, as well as causing environmental damage. Improper pesticide application, in addition to leading to inefficient control of biological targets, is generally associated with higher costs. Among the various factors that determine the success or failure of pesticide application is the use of agricultural adjuvants, whose main objectives are to improve the quality of the mixture and the application itself, protecting the crop to avoid financial losses.

Spraytec’s adjuvant segment focuses on the development of sustainable, innovative, and disruptive solutions, reducing environmental and social impacts through efficient and rational use of natural resources. With over 30 years of experience in the market and currently operating in 8 countries, the company is a pioneer in application technology, always challenging paradigms, contributing to reducing losses in field applications, and developing smart solutions that allow our customers to achieve the maximum productive potential of their crops.

The techniques employed in agriculture have evolved significantly in recent years; however, problems related to pest, disease, and weed management have also evolved. In this re-

gard, the main limiting factors in the application of technology are linked to the increase in pathogen and weed resistance, the loss of efficacy of current chemical pesticide groups, the reduction in the volume of solution used, the increase in the number of products and their tank mixtures, among others.

The main losses derived from applications can be attributed to drift, poor water quality, foam formation, product incompatibility, droplet runoff, poor solution homogenization, inadequate equipment, and adverse weather conditions. When all these factors interact, they can represent losses exceeding 70% of the applied volume, significantly reducing the quality of the application.

Throughout two decades of research and consulting in application technology, we have not found adjuvants in the market with properties capable of solving such problems with the same performance, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness as Fulltec Max. Fulltec Max is a comprehensive, multifunctional product in low doses, biodegradable, and with disruptive technology that, over the past 20 years, has undergone significant technological evolution to meet the growing demand for solutions for these new challenges in phytosanitary management, as the area treated with the product has increased from 30 to 300 million hectares, reflecting the product’s growth correlated with the current scenario (Figure 1). In addition to being a pioneer, it is the only one in the market with a differentiated special formulation capable of minimizing these recurring problems, season after season, as it constantly evolves.

Product of high solubility, absorption, and translocation, in

7

addition to presenting excellent synergy and physico-chemical compatibility with agricultural pesticides. It is a highly stable formulation of high technology, composed of high-quality raw materials. Fulltec Max provides a series of benefits in applications, as in small doses a single product presents characteristics of surfactant (reduces the surface tension of the droplet), spreader (reduces the contact angle of the droplet with the surface), adhesive (increases the adherence of the deposited product), surfactant (surface activator), increases the electrical conductivity of the water (greater attraction between the droplet and the target), anti-foaming agent (prevents foam formation), adjusts the pH (stabilizes the pH of the solution at appropriate levels), chelating agent (sequesters minerals from water), anti-evaporant (reduces volatility), drift reducer (vapor and particles), and solution compatibilizer (product mixtures). In addition to reducing losses and, consequently, environmental impact, Fulltec Max activates the secondary metabolism of plants, improving their resistance to biotic and abiotic factors.

The success of agricultural pesticide application technology must be based on the quality of the product (efficiency and selectivity), the timing of application (vulnerable target), and the quality of the application (achieving the target efficiently and without losses).

Therefore, we observe that when spraying a crop, it is necessary to ensure perfect coverage of the target with the applied product, and in this regard, conditioning the solution with a high-quality product like Fulltec Max is essential. Thus, it is the responsibility of the trained pro-

8

fessional to prescribe the most reliable product, and the producer to use it correctly. It is important to note that the improper use or low quality of these products available in the market can increase the toxicity of pesticides and cause damage to crops and the environment, provoke physico-chemical incompatibility between the pesticide and the adjuvant, leading to flocculation, precipitation, excessive foam formation, and various other reactions that can reduce the efficacy of the pesticide, causing significant losses to the producer. To avoid such situations, it is recommended to purchase good quality products manufactured by reliable and traditional companies, as well as to receive guidance from qualified technicians.

The results observed in the field with the use of Fulltec Max confirm those found by research in national and international institutions, showing that this product is the most modern and innovative in the field of pesticide application technology.

In this way, updated technical information at the right time is a constant concern of Spraytec, seeking greater operational performance, cost reduction, safety, and rationalization in the use of pesticides, with positive impacts on human health and the environment, as well as the efficacy and quality of the application, maximizing the expected effects of each technology employed in the plant protection process in agriculture.

Figure 1 Correlation between the main current problems in application technology and the use of Fulltec Max.

Spraytec GLOBAL

9

INTERVIEW

“Offering a new technology made me very exicted as an agronomist and a farmer myself”

By Juan Carlos Grasa Director of Horizonte A Tell us about yourself.

Hi to all Spraytec family from Turkiye. My name is Sabri Can Andac, I am an agronomist with 10 years experience from diffrent areas on agriculture. I am also a Professional farmer from my family business, producing fresh herbs, Lettuce and sweet corn. Now I am working as Country Manager of Spraytec Turkiye( Spraytec Gübre Ticaret Anonim Şirketi).

In what stage of the business is your area located, at this moment?

We officially established our company in Adana,Turkiye on 16th of May 2023. We started our registiration process for our portfolio adapted for the Turkish market since then.

We got our registirations this month now we have 6 registired product and will register 3 more products on our portfolio, 1 product as an ad-

10

Sabri Can Andac, is an agronomist. He’s working as Country Manager of Spraytec Turkiye. The history about his beginning and why he decided to be part of this family.

juvant 1 more fertilizer and 1 product on Biological portfolio. With total of 10 products will be on our portfolio.

We had our first field day and demonstration tour with the help from Andre Cuba product manager from Brazil on Mersin Tarsus which located near on our Headquartes Adana.

After our field day and demostrations on retailers, farmers and retailers are started talking about our Products and our application technology.

Tell us which crops predominate and what

is the problem that the Turkish farmer must face?

We located on the middle belt so we have 4 seasons very clear due to that climate conditions we produce almost every single crop. Most produced crop is wheat in Turkiye because its a strategic crop for every nation. We have some specific crops like fig,tea,hazelnut,apricot which has most of the production in Turkiye worldwide. Our biggest problem is the size of the lands. Smaller machinery cost time and labour. Also application Technologies are primative than rest of the advanced countries on agriculture. Our

“Turkish farmers are very lucky to have a company like Spraytec”

Spraytec GLOBAL

11

aim to improve spraying quality of farmers save water,time and Money for our farmers.

Türkiye is very important in horticulture, do you think that the horticulturist will adopt our products easily?

In horticulture we use expensive pesticides and spraying is very important for fruit quality.

We have great products for horticulture like Imantic,Cubo, Topzinc Max. I think they will adapt fast when they see the results. They wont risk it. Like our motto use it once, trust always.

What products are they developing the area with and which ones do you think will be most used?

We will start using our products in our headquarters Mediteranean region. We will mainly focus on raw crops like Wheat,Corn,Soybean and Cotton. Also for horticulture Citrus will be one of important crop we will work with. Most used products will be Fulltec Max and Imantic because we will first focus on correcting the application technology.

After that improvement of the spraying technology all of our

products will be the favorite of Turkish farmers.

What motivated you to join Spraytec and what do you think will be your biggest challenge in the future?

I want to answer that question with a real situation. When Pablo La Fuente first visited Turkiye we were at a banana greenhouse. We were demonstrating the very first product an even I didnt know the products performance. He was very confident about the product and I was afraid about the products performance. At the end results was amazing and the confident of Pablo’s and count on the products made me feel I am with good hands and joined the company. Also offering a new technology to farmers made me very exicted as an agronomist and a farmer myself.

Our biggest challenge will be changing the concept for sure because changing something and bulding from scratch is always hard and painfull but we have a great team and excitement. We are here to achive that and we will be succesfull.

Turkish farmers are very lucky to have a company like Spraytec.

“The confident of Pablo’s and count on the products made me feel I am with good hands and joined the company”

12

Spraytec GLOBAL

13

REPORT

Olive oil: its production, its benefits, and a tradition that renews itself.

Por: Lic. Nuala Szler

S

tarting with a bit of history and going back to its origins, it is mentioned that the olive tree grew in a wooded form in Asia Minor, while the Assyrians and Babylonians were the first ones to enjoy its fruits. Then, over the centuries, it spread throughout the Mediterranean, and the Roman Empire’s rise caused it to expand more forcefully within the domains of its great empire.

Since ancient times, vegetable oil, known worldwide as olive oil, has been extracted from the fruit of the olive tree, while its use is and has been primarily culinary.

Production regions Olive oil, both historically and culturally, has been a product closely linked to the Mediterranean region. Even today, only 3% of the world’s production takes place outside the Mediterranean area. Spain produces almost half of the world’s olive oil, followed

by Italy and Greece. These three countries account for three-quarters of global production.

14

Almost one-third of the olive pulp is oil, which is why its extraction has always been accessible. Additionally, about 90% of the world’s olive production goes into making this oil. This process takes place in late autumn when the olives have matured for six to eight months, containing their maximum oil content.

The production of olive oil in Argentina stands out for its favorable climatic conditions, as well as for having incorporated cultivation and processing technologies that have improved quality according to global demand. Argentinian production is mainly concentrated in the province of Catamarca in the northwest, which ranks first in terms of hectares planted with olive groves in the country, accounting for 27% of the total, followed by the provinces of La Rioja with 26%, San Juan with 24.6%, and Mendoza with 16.8%. In 2012, olive oil was declared a National Food with the aim of promoting its consumption through cultural, social, and sports events, supporting a nationally rooted economic activity, and, given its significant contributions, including this product

in the Argentine food basket.

In Argentina, both traditional and modern olive growing are practiced. The difference lies in the fact that the latter is more competitive because crops are harvested with machines. For some, it’s considered a more profitable production method, as it involves machinery, and the olive groves have been adapted to their operation. Another distinction is that in modern olive growing, around 350 plants are planted per hectare, smaller and more manageable, whereas in the traditional system, there are about 100 larger plants, making machine operation challenging. In the traditional system, tasks cannot be mechanized, so the harvest is done manually. However, whether it’s one model or the other, olive growing requires a significant amount of labor, with manual touch-ups always necessary, and pruning work being intensive.

The harvest takes place from March to July. Northern provinces, where it is warmer, begin earlier, while southern provinces like San Juan and Mendoza have a more

Spraytec GLOBAL

extended harvesting period.

Concerning the energy cost of cultivation and production, professionals are starting to explore the possibility of generating alternative energies such as solar or biomass to reduce these costs, which currently make up to 40% of the total expenses.

The food culture, along with its cultural movement, particularly in the media, has done much to establish olive oil as a healthy and indispensable partner in good cuisine.

However, in Argentina, that task is far from being completed, and the difference in consumption liters between Argentina and those where the olive oil culture is more firmly established, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain, is still very wide. Nevertheless, it is the only Latin American country in the top 10 of the worldwide EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) ranking, which measures the quality of this product by country. For years,

Argentina has been the leading producer in the Southern Hemisphere.

Quality issue What defines a good olive oil is, of course, its quality. The classification is based on its acidity, determined by the International Olive Council, and is considered a fundamental indicator of purity. Olive oils are classified from highest to lowest quality as follows: “extra virgin” with acidity below 0.80%, “virgin” with acidity above 0.81% and below 2%, “ordinary virgin” with acidity reaching a maximum of 3.30%, and “lampante,” which must be refined before consumption. Following this classification, the main commercial designations are “extra virgin,” “virgin,” and “olive oil.”

“What is simply marketed as olive oil in the market is a combination of refined lam-

pante and virgin oil. And the highest consumption in Argentina comes from the blend of sunflower and olive oil,” comments Gabriel Guardia, general manager and master oilmaker at Laur, ranked in the top 3 of the world’s best olive oil producers according to the worldwide EVOO ranking.

Companies dedicated to producing quality olive oils warn about the unfair competition of adulterated olive oil in the market. The distinctive features of “extra virgin” olive oil are several: it must be clean, free of defects, and have positive attributes. In other words, pleasant, fragrant, bitter, and pungent aromas and flavors with harmony and complexity, according to experts. One of the reasons why “extra virgin” olive oil has lower acidity is that, during its production, the harvest is carried out when the olives are still green, containing a much higher and more significant polyphenolic and antioxidant load than a ripe olive; however, when the

15

fruit deteriorates, acidity increases.

The acidity level, information provided on some labels, is not the only factor to consider: origin, harvest year, and expiration date are also important. Since olive oil is not a long-term storage product, its quality is higher the closer it is consumed to the harvest date. However, the best information about its quality comes from tasting it. “Simply pairing it with bread awakens a repertoire of sensations reminiscent of the fresh fruit it was made from,” says Solfrut, the company that produces one of Argentina’s considered best olive oils, Oliovita. Color and hue do not indicate quality; and despite this surprising fact, it should be known that even official tasting glasses are blue. Therefore, the color, whether green or yellowish, should not influence the evaluation of the oil.

Extra virgin, a guarantee in himself Beyond these sensory details and personal experience, “extra virgin” olive oil has an inherent guarantee. It is the only one that, for its designation, requires approval from an international panel.

Therefore, regardless of its origin, it must have the same attributes to be considered as such. It is also recognized that this type of oil can be

monovarietal, when made from a single olive variety, or a blend when produced with different olive varieties.

“Similar to what happens in the world of wine, each variety of olive oil has a unique flavor and characteristics. In our estates, located in San Juan and La Rioja, at the foot of the Andes mountain range, we have 10 different varieties that we process in a differentiated way,” adds Guillermo Kemp, Commercial Director of Solfrut, the company that produces Oliovita. Among the main varieties cultivated in Argentina are: - Arauco, considered the Malbec of Argentine oils because it is the only native variety. It has very pronounced bitterness and pungency.

The country receives many awards for this variety.

- Arbequina, a Spanish variety from the Catalonia region.

It is the most cultivated in Argentina. Due to its mild and fresh flavor, it can be paired with green leaf salads, cheeses, and nuts.

- Coratina, mainly cultivated in the Puglia region (Italy), is very important in Argentina as well. It is characterized by medium fruitiness and intense bitter and pungent flavors.

- Changlot, a Spanish variety highly praised for its characteristics. It has a good balance between bitter and pungent tones.

- Picual, the most important variety globally. It is characterized by its high intensity and complexity of aromas and flavors. It is green and has a well-accentuated pungent taste.

Nowadays, the olive oil production process is increasingly aligned with environmental sustainability, demanding producers to adopt more responsible practices and embrace processes and products that adhere to it.

Preserving natural resources and protecting the ecosystem from which the raw material is obtained is essential in this regard. Traditionally, the olive oil production process is divided into various stages that culminate in the oil’s packaging. Proper optimization of each stage determines the quality and characteristics of this product.

Process for the final flavor The time of the year chosen for olive harvesting also influences the final flavor: the elements that determine the bitterness, pungency, and fat yield of the olive depend largely on the cultivation and harvest times. These are the

Beyond age and personal requirements, diets or eating habits, olive oil is a wise choice no matter how you look at it.

16

Spraytec GLOBAL

most important factors in determining the quantity, quality, and consequently, the final price of the oil. The most commonly used systems for harvesting nowadays are beating and mechanical vibration. The former, known as the most traditional method, involves gently using wood to strike the fruit, which falls onto the cloths prepared by the collector. Fewer producers use this system nowadays because it can damage the olives, thus compromising oil quality. The second system, mechanical vibration, employs specialized machinery known as vibrators. Two types are distinguished: arm vibrators that attach to branches for shaking and tractor vibrators that move the entire olive tree from its trunk.

Once the harvest is complete, the best olives are selected to ensure that the oil production attains the highest quality.

Subsequently, these olives are transported to the olive mill (almazara), which is a mill responsible for extracting the juice from the fruits into suitable containers for transport. This entire process of harvesting and transportation must be completed within a maximum of 24 hours. In order for the olives to retain all their properties and produce high-quality oil, they need to be processed in less than a day. Otherwise, they begin a fermentation process, causing a loss of quality and an increase in acidity.

At the olive mill, branches and leaves are removed. Then, the olives are washed with water, weighed, and transported to

17

the hoppers for storage. As the final part of this step, the olives undergo milling, which is grinding or crushing the fruit. It is crucial to mill on the same day of harvesting, at the latest within 24 hours. If more time passes, as mentioned, the fruit starts a fermentation and oxidation process.

Once everything is crushed, a homogeneous paste is obtained, which is beaten for at least an hour. It is necessary for this process to occur at room temperature, between 24 and 27 °C, to preserve the aromatic compounds of the olive and the antioxidants present. Through this, the oil separates from the other parts of the fruit – pulp, skin, pit, and water – making extraction possible. The latter requires strong mechanical pressure, known as pressing.

Although in the past the paste was pressed with presses operated by several men, nowadays, this pressure is applied using modern machinery.

Finally, natural decantation occurs, a process in which olive oil is separated from wa-

18

ter and any remaining solid residues, made possible by differences in density. This marks the end of the olive oil production process.

On the other hand, packaging and storage impact the product’s quality, contributing to its preservation under ideal conditions. Typically, the container is made of glass, metal, or plastic, and it’s crucial that it prevents direct light entry and regulates temperature without reaching extreme hot or cold levels, as these conditions can alter the composition of olive oil. New proposals for environmental sustainability also aim to create eco-friendly packaging that allows for reuse and maintains better product quality.

Benefits We cannot make a conclusion without mentioning the significant benefits that olive oil provides. Scientific studies increasingly provide evidence of the beneficial properties of olive oil for our health. On one hand, thanks to its high

content of monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid), olive oil raises levels of HDL (good cholesterol) and lowers LDL-c (bad cholesterol). It also benefits blood pressure control, reduces the risk of thrombosis, and helps prevent diabetes.

On the other hand, due to its vitamin E content and its antioxidant effect on the cell membrane, olive oil is especially recommended for both children and the elderly. Nutritionists even recommend its use over any other vegetable oil, as it maintains its properties at high temperatures. In addition, among other qualities, it facilitates the absorption of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc, is effective in the digestive process, preventing gastric acidity and facilitating intestinal transit, helps control blood glucose levels, prevents degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, acts against aging due to its high polyphenol content (a natural antioxidant), and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and the occurrence of cancer cells. As we can see, there are a multitude of benefits that contribute quality to our lives. Regardless of age, personal requirements, diets, or eating habits, olive oil is a wise choice from every perspective.

Spraytec GLOBAL

19

TERRITORIAL ROOTS

PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA Perth, the capital of the state of Western Australia, is a city that has experienced a fascinating evolution over the years. From its humble beginnings to becoming a thriving and multicultural metropolis today.

History Perth’s history dates back to British colonization. In 1829, Captain James Stirling led an expedition to establish a settlement on the western coast of Australia. The chosen site was along the Swan River, and on August 12, 1829, the settlement was officially founded and named Perth, honoring the Scottish city of Perth.

Over the following years, Perth experienced steady growth. In the 1890s, the gold rush radically transformed the region. The discovery of gold deposits in Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie attracted thousands of prospectors to Western Australia, and Perth played a crucial role in sup-

20

plying goods and services to these fortune seekers. The resulting economic boom left a lasting mark on the city, with the construction of elegant public and commercial buildings that still stand out in the current urban skyline.

The 20th century marked a period of significant changes for Perth. World War II brought increased military activity and strategic importance to the city. After the war, Perth experienced urban expansion and an influx of immigrants, especially from Europe and Asia, contributing to the cultural diversity that characterizes the city today.

While Perth has experienced substantial growth, it also

faces challenges such as sustainable water management and urban planning to ensure equitable development. The city is at a turning point, seeking to balance its economic development with the preservation of its natural environment and the quality of life for its residents.

Much of Perth was originally built on a series of freshwater wetlands stretching from Herdsman Lake in the west to Claisebrook Cove in the east. It’s estimated that up to 80% of Perth was constructed on reclaimed wetlands.

City Mapping Situated on the southwest coast of Australia, Perth stretches along the banks of the Swan River and is characterized by its proximity to the Indian Ocean. Its diverse topography includes golden beaches, natural parks, and hills that offer panoramic views of the city.

Spraytec GLOBAL

21

Perth’s Mediterranean climate brings dry summers and mild winters. With over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, the city is known for its clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it an attractive place for both residents and visitors alike.

It is a culturally diverse city, with a population reflecting international migration and rich Aboriginal heritage. The

Noongar community has significantly contributed to the cultural identity of the region, and reconciliation efforts are evident in initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting their heritage.

Perth has a population of approximately 2 million people. Although its origin, as discussed in its history, is predominantly British, today it is nearly equally divided

between Australians and English residents (26% and 28% respectively).

Economy Perth’s economy has experienced an impressive transformation, initially driven by the gold rush and mining.

Today, the city is a financial and commercial hub, with a strong presence in diverse sectors such as technology, energy, and education. The wealth of natural resources in Western Australia continues to play a crucial role in the local economy, with iron ore and natural gas mining leading the way.

However, Perth is not only an economic and cultural destination but also a place of significant tourist appeal.

From the vast beaches of Cottesloe and Scarborough to the vineyards in the Perth hills, the city offers a variety of experiences.

Famous Perth Natives An interesting fact is that the iconic rock band AC/DC has roots in Perth. The brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, founders of the band, spent their childhood in the city.

The commemorative plaque in Fremantle, where they

Perth offers its residents and visitors a unique combination of rich history, stunning natural surroundings and a special cultural scene.

22

Spraytec GLOBAL

used to perform, is a testament to their connection with Perth. Additionally, the drum and bass band Pendulum also originated in this city.

Perth houses various cultural and recreational venues, with notable ones including the Art Gallery of Western Australia, Alexander Library, State Record Office, and Perth Institute of Contemporary Art (PICA). The city also hosts the Perth International Arts Festival annually, making it a significant cultural festival in Australia since 1953.

Beaches It is said that Australian beaches rank among the best in the world, and those in Perth are no exception.

Visitors can witness the marvelous Indian Ocean stretching out in deep blue hues. With thousands of kilometers of coastline, there’s

always a beach to suit everyone’s preferences.

One of the most popular beaches for people of all ages is Cottesloe, perfect for both swimming and water activities like snorkeling and surfing. This location offers clean, soft sands that both children and adults can enjoy, along with a beautifully lined boulevard full of vibrant restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

Other notable beaches: Scarborough, more popular among young adults, with surfing being a common sight year-round. The City Beach and Floreat are favorites for those seeking a slightly quieter environment for fishing or bodyboarding.

For those looking for the perfect waves and a bit more challenge in surfing, Trigg is the go-to spot, where changing sandbanks over rocks create ideal conditions for this activity.

Parks Kings Park stands out, located near the University of Western Australia, considered not only the largest in the city but also one of the most extensive in the world, covering approximately 4.06 km². The Perth Zoo, situated in the south, makes a significant contribution to global biodiversity. Among its most exotic animals are the numbat, dibbler, chuditch, and the Western Swamp Tortoise.

Conclusion In summary, Perth emerges as a city that has weathered the passage of time, adapting and thriving in each stage of its history. From its days of the gold rush to its current role as a modern and dynamic metropolis, Perth provides its residents and visitors with a unique blend of rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and a distinctive cultural scene.

23

REPORT

The Agro Social Networks

Deaf, Blind, and Dumb.

By: Ing. Agr. Mariano Larrazabal Consultant in digital agromarketing and social media - Bialar. @AgroBialar

W

hat role do social networks play in your agricultural company?

Do you have a social media plan or strategy? It is positive to take some time to reflect on what your agricultural company is doing on social networks. Be clear that everything you post on the internet expresses an online image and identity. Think if you truly feel represented and how important is the content that is published.

Social networks are a regular part of your client’s daily life, already integrated into their routine and habits. And if you haven’t noticed, your client carries them everywhere and checks them approximately every 30 minutes... on different devices, so social networks influence their purchasing decisions.

The conversion power of social networks in the agricultural sector is increasing; the level of information received through this channel is growing and its quality is high.

24

“The social networks of agriculture are and will be a key element in purchasing decisions.”

Agronomists and veterinarians as well as salespeople in the agro-industrial sector, urgently need social networks to be integrated throughout the purchasing process, and this communication channel must be well-managed to have a real impact on decisions, both online and through conventional means.

Value Statistic: 40% of users admit to following brands to stay updated on their business activities, 50% to learn about their new products, and 55% to access promotions or offers they wouldn’t find through other communication channels.

At times, the facts show that agribusinesses underestimate or misunderstand the purpose of social networks, far from managing them professionally. This leads to misuse, without strategies, and a negative online reputation. Keep in mind that online comments and opinions are increasingly important in purchasing decisions.

Let’s start unraveling the knot.

Why does your agribusiness use social networks?

A good short and concise answer would be: we use them as a channel to disseminate content and prospect leads.

Let’s use our imagination...

Let’s imagine social networks as if they were an event or exhibition your agribusiness attends. You exchange ideas with clients and the sector, express brand identity and character, conclude some sales, analyze the market, make brand advocates, project new business, and acquire a good contact base. Do you agree?

Well, the same should happen on social networks.

Let’s dispel some myths...

Success on social networks is not about having the most followers. Base your strategy on the quality of content and understanding your agro-community.

Your agro-strategies should focus on attracting followers who empathize with the profile of your target customer and start getting to know each other. It is important that agro-industrial companies coexist in the current digital ecosystem.

Spraytec GLOBAL

I provide you with 4 concepts that allow agribusinesses to survive in the digital jungle, in an agriculture that has changed its way of communicating.

1. Identify your goal on social networks: Knowing and understanding who your customer is, their thoughts, and motivations is a priority. Every agromarketing or agro-industrial social media strategy needs this information. Without it, we start at minus 10 and may end up wasting time and resources. If you clearly identify your crop’s needs, you’ll know how to choose the right fertilizer.

2. Attracting on social networks: Speaking of baits, undoubtedly content agromarketing is the most efficient way to grab your customer’s attention. You provide added value to your product and ser-

vice, offering a differentiation in knowledge and information.

Any content that is useful and adds value to your target audience will be shared and go viral. You can’t please everyone on social networks, so focus your efforts on your target audience. Analyze how your followers interact and tailor your content to them.

3. Deaf, Blind, and Dumb.

The agro social networks: Connect with this situation...

Imagine a board meeting where you can only listen, not speak, express opinions, or ask questions. Is this meeting positive? It’s undoubtedly lacking positivity. The same goes for social networks. The attitude on agro social networks should be participation, engaging in conversations, building agro-community, having a voice, and a unique rhythm.

Dialogues on agro social networks aim to increase followers’ trust in your agribusiness, enhance its online reputation, and be receptive to both negative and positive feedback.

Don’t get discouraged along the way. Consistency is key.

Unleash your creativity and imagination on social networks.

4. Social networks and the funnel. Need and Attention / Consideration / Decision?

Identify your customer’s buying cycle and structure a content strategy accordingly. Define when and how you’ll use social networks. Document your sales process, shed light on the objective, and leverage social networks. Develop tools and enhance your digital resources.

In conclusion, creating a strategic and professional presence on social networks for your agribusiness will help solidify your brand as a reference, build community loyalty, and increase sales.

25

RESEARCH

PHYTOSANITARY APPLIC More of the Same?

Ing. Agr. (Esp.) Facundo Menta

T

he use of drones in agriculture seems to have come to stay, as they offer multiple facilities such as field mapping, monitoring, and crop surveys, among others.

The rise of these unmanned aerial vehicles is linked to the digitization of agriculture, and it is expected that their functions within the system will continue to grow in the coming years. The application of phytosanitary products through drones is a practice that is beginning to gain ground in Latin America and will likely become more widespread as it finds its

26

specific niche. Currently, there are no regulations governing sprayings through this means, but time and development of information on the subject will likely lead to clarification.

In this context, different field assessments were conducted to evaluate the quality of drone applications, aiming to understand their spraying dynamics.

This report cites two examples of different regulations, although with similar volumes per surface area, to observe and understand the impact of variable management. The application was tested with water plus adjuvant based on MSO plus surfactant. Hydro-sen-

sitive cards for evaluation were fully exposed. The drone used was a DJI Agras MG 1P, equipped with 4 interchangeable nozzles. Three sampling points were taken per pass (width of 3.5 meters), covering 2 passes of the drone. In the first instance, the application was evaluated with a hollow cone nozzle 01 (orange), at a pressure of 2 bars and a speed of 14 km/h, delivering a volume of 15 lts/ha. The second technique was defined with a hollow cone nozzle 015 (green), a pressure of 2 bars, and a speed of 25 km/h, resulting in 14 lts/ ha of volume per surface.

Weather conditions during the

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

Regulation of variables on the joystick.

Description of the sampled techniques.

Spraytec GLOBAL

CATION VIA DRONES: first sampling were somewhat irregular, aiming to “stress” the application quality at some point: a medium wind of 13 km/h, Delta T of 10°C. At the time of the second sampling, conditions were much better: a medium wind of 2.2 km/h, Delta T of 6.2°C. The 6 cards collected for each application technique were scanned through SprayGuru, yielding the results expressed in figures 3 and 4: When comparing the results of the samplings, it is evident (as always) that droplet size is crucial in determining higher or lower surface coverage levels. The smaller DVM of the nozzle 01 at the same working pressure determines a higher number of impacts per cm2 (78), which would cover the theoretical coverage requirements of a contact herbicide, for example. In contrast, the

32 impacts generated by the 015 cone would be a guarantee, especially for systemic herbicide applications. Spraying with drones is “more of the same” in the sense that they follow the ABCs of managing key variables (nozzle, pressure, speed, volume/ha) to achieve a

sufficient level of coverage for the proper performance of agrochemicals.

Within the realm of this new drone spraying method, we can also affirm that MEASUREMENT through appropriate samplings and the MANAGE-

Figure 3.

Average data obtained from the analysis of the 6 cards, showing the DVM and Impacts/cm2 variables for each evaluated spraying technique (fully exposed cards). Menta F. 2023, unpublished data.

27

The watersensitive evaluation cards, completely uncovered. We worked with a DJI Agras MG 1P drone, equipped with 4 replaceable nozzles.

MENT OF key variables continue to be the foundation for efficient regulatory approaches.

Bonus track: The working pressure does NOT appear on the joystick of DJI drones (at least those equipped with nozzles).

In such cases, it can be estimated using the flow formula for boom-equipped equipment (we need to establish a certain

28

forward speed and volume per hectare), taking a symbolic spacing between nozzles resulting from dividing the width of the drone’s pass by the number of activated nozzles. By determining the lts/min that the selected nozzle will deliver, we can look up (by its size) in the flow rate table and arrive at the working pressure. This pressure determination exercise is extremely important, as it al-

lows us to know it in advance and thus propose appropriate regulations.

Special thanks to Corteva Argentina for investing in the generation of technical information in the quest to streamline processes regarding application quality, as well as for the opportunity and challenge entrusted to materialize it.

Spraytec GLOBAL

29

30

Spraytec

Spraytec GLOBAL

SNAPSHOTS

31

32