Show Notes 148: How Spotta is Revolutionising Pest Control

In the latest episode of the Cambridge Tech Podcast, hosts Faye Holland and James Parton dive into the vibrant world of technology in and around Cambridge, spotlighting exciting developments from the local tech scene. This week, they share insights on the latest news in the sector before transitioning into an engaging interview with Robert Friars, the founder and CEO of Spotta.

Weekly Tech News Highlights

The episode kicks off with a roundup of noteworthy tech news, showcasing the dynamic innovations emerging from Cambridge:

• CuspAI and Kemira Partnership: CuspAI has formed a strategic alliance with Kemira, a leader in sustainable chemical solutions, to revolutionise the water industry by leveraging AI for material discovery. This collaboration aims to expedite the removal of harmful chemicals from water sources, demonstrating the power of technology in environmental sustainability.

• Second Mind's US Expansion: Automotive tech company Second Mind has established its first operational presence in Detroit, Michigan, following a significant licensing agreement. This move marks a major milestone for the company as it seeks to strengthen partnerships with global OEMs.

• Raspberry Pi Foundation's Call to Action: The Raspberry Pi Foundation has published a report urging urgent action to prepare young people for the age of AI. CEO Philip Colligan emphasises the need for skilled human programmers to ensure the ethical and safe use of AI technologies.

• Superdielectrics' New Battery Launch: Cambridge-based Superdielectrics has unveiled its next-generation aqueous polymer battery, promising to kickstart a new phase in the CleanTech revolution and significantly reduce household electricity bills.

Interview with Robert Friars, CEO of Spotta

In the second part of the episode, Robert Friars shares his journey in founding Spotta, a company dedicated to developing early warning systems for insect infestations. His insights into the tech behind Spotta and its impact on pest management are both enlightening and inspiring.

Key Takeaways from the Interview:

• Spotta's Mission: "We provide early warning systems, a bit like a smoke detector but for insect infestations." This innovative approach allows for targeted pest management, reducing the need for blanket chemical applications.

• The Technology: Spotta employs ultra-low power vision systems to monitor insect activity in real-time. This technology is designed to be cost-effective and sustainable, addressing a significant market need in pest control.

• Sustainability Focus: Robert highlights the environmental impact of traditional pest management: "Four million tons of chemical insecticide literally poisoning the planet. It has to change." Spotta aims to reduce chemical usage while maintaining agricultural productivity.

• Market Potential: The global pest management market represents a staggering half-trillion-dollar problem. Robert asserts, "There is absolutely no reason why we can't build this business to be worth billions."

• Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Robert encourages budding founders to "fall in love with the problem you're solving, not your solution to it." Understanding customer pain points is crucial for building a successful business.

Conclusion

This episode of the Cambridge Tech Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and sustainability. Robert Friars’ insights into the future of pest management and Spotta’s innovative approach provide a compelling narrative for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike.

Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation! Tune in to the full episode and subscribe to the Cambridge Tech Podcast for more inspiring stories from the heart of the UK’s tech capital.

To listen and subscribe, search for ‘Cambridge Tech Podcast’ on your favourite podcasting platform or visit cambridgetechpodcast.com.