SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carbon Robotics, a leader in AI-powered robotics, has been named to Fast Company’s prestigious annual list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2023. Carbon Robotics is being recognized for the development and impact of its state-of-the art LaserWeeder, a robot operated by artificial intelligence and computer vision that utilizes lasers to remove weeds efficiently and sustainably. Since its launch in February 2022, the LaserWeeder has eliminated more than 500 million weeds and helped growers reduce their weed management costs by up to 80%.
This year’s list highlights the businesses at the forefront of their respective industries, paving the way for the innovations of tomorrow. These companies are setting the standard with some of the greatest accomplishments of the modern world. In addition to the World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies, 540 organizations are recognized across 54 sectors and regions.
“Agriculture is facing a number of pressing challenges, such as labor, herbicide shortages and inflation. At Carbon Robotics, we’re committed to utilizing technology to address these challenges and provide efficient, long-term solutions that support farmers,” said Paul Mikesell, CEO and founder of Carbon Robotics. “Historically, agriculture hasn’t always benefited from the latest technology and we are committed to applying the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and computer vision to a sector that affects us all."
In February 2022, Carbon Robotics launched the LaserWeeder, a pull-behind robot that utilizes sophisticated AI deep learning technology, computer vision, robotics and lasers, to identify weeds and target them for elimination. The LaserWeeder’s 30 high-powered CO2 lasers use thermal energy to destroy the meristem of the weed with millimeter accuracy, without disturbing the soil or damaging nearby crops.
To date, the LaserWeeder can weed across more than 40 crops and can add new crop models in 24-48 hours. By the end of this year, LaserWeeders will be actively used on farms in 17 different states and three Canadian provinces.
Carbon Robotics continues to rapidly innovate to meet growers’ needs, including adding the industry’s first LaserThinning capability to its LaserWeeder. LaserThinning targets areas where vegetable crops are purposefully overseeded and then thinned for optimal crop spacing, growth and yield. This is especially important for farmers growing lettuce, leafy greens, broccoli and other crops.
Fast Company’s editors and writers sought out the companies making the biggest strides around the globe. They also judged nominations received through their application process.
The World’s Most Innovative Companies is Fast Company’s signature franchise and one of its most highly anticipated editorial efforts of the year. It provides a firsthand look at the inspiring and innovative efforts of companies across all sectors of the economy.
“What a strange and thrilling year it has been to honor this year’s Most Innovative Companies. This year’s list compiles some of the most cutting-edge groundbreakers who are changing our world every single day, from legacy organizations like McDonald’s to upstarts like MrBeast and institutions such as NASA. Everyone on this list does something completely, uniquely different, yet, they all have one thing in common: innovation,” said Fast Company editor-in-chief Brendan Vaughan.
ABOUT CARBON ROBOTICS
Carbon Robotics, a leader in AI-powered robotics, empowers farmers to operate more efficiently by building innovative agriculture tools. The company’s revolutionary, high-precision laserweeding technology leverages sophisticated AI deep learning technology, computer vision, robotics and lasers to reduce weed control costs by 80% and improve crop yield and quality.
In February 2022, Carbon Robotics launched the first and only commercial laserweeding robot. The LaserWeeder is a pull-behind robot that seamlessly attaches to the back of tractors and utilizes Carbon Robotics’ laserweeding technology to identify weeds and target them for elimination. For more information, visit: https://carbonrobotics.com/.
ABOUT FAST COMPANY
Fast Company is the only media brand fully dedicated to the vital intersection of business, innovation, and design, engaging the most influential leaders, companies, and thinkers on the future of business. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with our sister publication Inc., and can be found online at www.fastcompany.com.
