EMBRAPA’s technology promotes water efficiency and climate resilience in sugarcane fields in the Cerrado biome
To address the challenges of climate change, especially in long-cycle crops like sugarcane, the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) developed BRCana, an innovative technological package set to revolutionize sugarcane production in the Cerrado biome by promoting water efficiency and sustainability.
BRCana is an irrigation management protocol that combines climatic methods with soil moisture and plant sensing. Its development began in 2010 in collaboration with the sugar-energy industry, and BRCana aims to increase productivity, reduce vulnerability to drought, and decrease the sector’s water footprint.
The technology was tested and validated under real production conditions, yielding remarkable results. Irrigated areas using BRCana showed an increase in average productivity from 71 tons per hectare to 120 tons per hectare. Additionally, efficient irrigation significantly reduced production costs and natural resource usage.
Efficient irrigation not only reduces the demand for land and water but also functions as a crucial strategy for adapting to climate change. Two irrigation scenarios were presented, showing how different percentages of irrigated areas can increase productivity, extend the lifespan of sugarcane fields, and reduce costs.
Industry experts praise BRCana for its effectiveness, highlighting the importance of understanding water demand and management strategies for productive success and emphasizing BRCana’s decisive role in sustainable company growth.
Mills such as Jalles Machado, São Martinho, Grupo Pedra Agroindustrial, Alta Mogiana, Raizen, and Santa Adélia have already implemented the method, witnessing significant productivity increases and environmental benefits. BRCana technology has proven efficient in the Cerrado and has the potential for application in other biomes and countries, benefiting global food security and climate change mitigation.
Innovation is essential to the future of agriculture. BRCana is an example of how technology can change agricultural production, making it more efficient and resilient.