Chile’s water scarcity issues are well-documented, along with the necessity to improve resource efficiency for crop irrigation and landscaping. AQUA4D’s innovative technology meets this need precisely by maximizing yields with minimal inputs. Already present in Chile since 2018 and having accomplished renowned projects and collaborations, the company has now officially opened a subsidiary in Santiago.
The new establishment represents a natural step confirming the company’s growth in recent years and the urgent need for technological solutions in regions facing water constraints. “With this robust establishment in Santiago, we are well-positioned to help more and more Latin American countries achieve water savings and improve resource efficiency through sustainable irrigation,” said Eric Valette, CEO of AQUA4D.
With over 20 years of research and international field experience, AQUA4D has been at the forefront of water innovation. As of 2022, its “made in Valais” products have been installed over 5,000 times in 43 countries, contributing to sustainable development goals by optimizing water efficiency and reducing chemical discharges. The company received funding from various sources, including France-based Abaque Finance, which has allowed them to upscale R&D and innovative product development.
AQUA4D’s technology addresses problems related to soil salinity, saline water, and more, saving up to 30% of irrigation water. By modifying the water’s behavior, it allows better dissolution and distribution of minerals, enhancing water retention, and plant mineral absorption without the use of chemicals.
Swiss and Chilean institutional support
The creation of an official entity in Chile, AQUA4D LatAm, supported by a team of agronomists, marks a significant advancement for rational water use in the country and for Swiss-Chilean relations. Institutional support, including from the Swiss Embassy, has been crucial, and the smooth launch of operations serves as a model of bilateral collaboration.
With a dedicated and dynamic team now in place at AQUA4D LatAm in Santiago, promising developments are expected in 2023 and beyond. This region’s desperate need for sustainable innovations to combat drought and salinity makes AQUA4D’s expansion not only a business success story but a vital part of a global effort to address pressing environmental challenges. The company’s journey from winning the “Most Promising European Cleantech Start-Up” award in 2009 to its current international status demonstrates a commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale.
