Development of robotic solutions is seen as key for the future of UK horticulture
A project to create an Agri-Robotics Regulatory Network has received almost half a million pounds of funding from Innovate UK.
The government funding comes as party of a total investment of £4.7mn by Innovate UK on 11 Regulatory Science and Innovation Networks (RSINs).
Covering a wide range of subjects, the new networks look to accelerate regulation in pace with technological advancements to support innovation, from recycling end-of-life wind turbines to retrofitting homes with energy-saving technologies.
The Agri-Robotics Regulatory Network will be led by the UK Agri-Tech Centre with the goal of helping optimise regulation and standards governing UK agri-robotics. The project has received a grant of £499,992.
The network aims to raise the sector’s profile with regulators, delivering evidence to build progressive regulation and policy that will support the widespread adoption of agri-robotics technologies.
A wide range of regulation, policy and standards impact agri-robotics development and deployment, according to the pitch proposal, which has lead to a complex landscape and uncertain path to adoption.
The network will reflect a diverse and inclusive representation of farmers, technology developers, researchers, regulators and policymakers, as well as key enablers such as the finance sector, insurers and investors.
Other projects granted funding by Innovate UK include a Biofilm Alliance, a Novel Foods Expert Network for Regulatory Challenges, and a Life Cycle Assessment Regulatory Science & Innovation Network.
Ailsa Kennedy-Ballard, deputy director of innovation programmes and partnerships at Innovate UK, said: “This investment marks a significant step forward in addressing the regulatory challenges that often hinder innovation.
“By establishing these Regulatory Science and Innovation Networks, we’re enabling collaboration between researchers, businesses, and policymakers to contribute to a regulatory landscape that can adapt to the pace of technological advancements.
“These networks will not only help unlock opportunities for investment and innovation but also ensure that the UK remains a competitive leader in creating safer, more sustainable, and forward-thinking solutions across diverse sectors.”
