The world of agricultural innovation is increasingly shifting toward sustainable solutions that not only boost efficiency but also reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Amid global climate challenges, rising pest resistance to plant protection products, and growing concern for food security, bioengineering technologies are taking center stage in crop protection.
Futurology’s participation in the Spray Drone End User Conference, held March 23–26 in Mobile, Alabama, was not only a natural extension of the company’s expertise but also a meaningful contribution to reimagining the future of agricultural production. This year’s event served not only as a platform for exchanging best practices but also as a launchpad for breakthrough ideas in sustainable agriculture.
At the event, Beetless was presented — a tech startup redefining pest control through safe, bio-based solutions. Founded by two Ukrainian technology companies, DroneUA and Mosqitter, the project is based on intelligent robotic traps that leverage insect instincts to detect and neutralize threats without using pesticides.
“Today, the drone market — particularly for crop protection applications — is experiencing rapid growth, opening up new opportunities. However, we must think ahead, striking a balance between pesticide use and environmentally friendly approaches. Beetless is an attempt to shift the paradigm: we offer protection without chemicals — an innovation that works for farmers, the land, and the future,” said Valerii Iakovenko, co-founder and managing partner of DroneUA and Futurology.
Currently, Beetless is primarily focused on two pests, which is one of the key areas of its activity:
● Asian Citrus Psyllid (Diaphorina citri), a major threat to citrus crops
● Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), which is rapidly spreading in the northeastern United States
However, the technology’s applications extend beyond these targets. At the conference, Beetless also shared its plans to expand into greenhouse farming, berry cultivation, organic agriculture, and operations in challenging climates.
“Interest in our technology is growing every day. In Alabama, we had in-depth conversations with representatives from Bolivia who see great potential for using Beetless in their conditions. And this is just the beginning. We’re not just building a startup — we’re shaping a global bioengineering ecosystem for agriculture,” emphasized Oleksandra Afanasieva, co-founder and CEO of Beetless.
Meetings with representatives of Auburn University, discussions of joint research initiatives, and potential cooperation confirmed that Beetless is moving in the right direction by integrating R&D, practical agricultural production, and a strong technological vision. The conference platform, built on the university’s research capabilities, opened up opportunities for long-term collaboration in the field of sustainable crop protection and testing of new solutions in the United States.
The Spray Drone End User Conference once again confirmed: the future of agriculture lies in precision, autonomy, and sustainable approaches. And Beetless is a clear example of how these principles can be implemented today.
Futurology extends its gratitude to the organizers of the event for the opportunity to present a startup that is part of a global paradigm shift in agricultural production. Building ecosystems for sustainable farming and integrating bioengineering approaches into real-world agricultural operations is not only about technology — it’s about a sustainable future. Collaboration between science and business has the power to restore the natural balance and ensure food security in the face of global challenges. That’s why platforms for dialogue and knowledge exchange, such as the Spray Drone End User Conference, are vital for shaping a new agenda in the agricultural sector — one that is innovative, responsible, and focused on sustainable development.
