Switzerland and the EU plan to implement climate plans and mercantile mechanisms to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from croplands, but face technological challenges hindering spreading. Soil carbon sequestration and efficient fertilization management (organic and synthetic fertilizers are often inefficient, 40% to 100% of losses) are the two most important levers for reducing these emissions. Both of these strategies require accurate soil sampling and optimised planning to be mobilized and fully enhanced. However, soil samplers currently used to assess these parameters are too costly and inaccurate.

This 36-month project aims to develop a two-in-one solution: a new soil sampler providing accurate soil probes for bulk density assessment combined with Digit Soil (DS)'s device measuring the mineralization rate to improve fertilizer use efficiency. Soil data collected in both, controlled experimental field and agricultural farmland using farmer's network, will be used to reinforce soil-agronomic models to provide farmers with information on optimal fertilizer application. The project will result in an affordable and reliable soil sampler, a finalized and improved biogeochemical measurement principle (the " membrane"), the industrialization of DS reader, and a deep-learning software to improve DS current optimisation model. The project will reduce sampling costs, increase crop yield, reduce inputs and costs for farmers, and reduce water and air pollution.

The new products will significantly increase revenues and profitability of the company and will be scaled in Switzerland and internationally. Finally, the project will advance the science in the field of Soil Science, Agronomy, and, Data Science. All along the Innosuisse project, the company DS will act as product owner and support the communication between the research partners. The company benefits from the necessary capital and partners to scale the production and launch it to the market.