The German Pavilion showcases approaches for living in a circular society at the World Expo until October 13, 2025. In the theme area of circular economy, a contribution to a central challenge in agriculture can be seen: weed control without the use of chemical agents. The exhibit, inspired by LZH's work, features a tractor with a trailer driving over a field of crops and weeds. On an integrated touchscreen display, visitors can playfully try out what it's like to distinguish weeds from crops and trigger a laser treatment with a click.

Weed control without chemicals

In reality, a trained AI handles recognition, allowing a robust laser system to precisely treat weed plants with light pulses – without damaging adjacent crops. The goal is a sustainable alternative to herbicide use. The technical foundation is based on LZH's research work, including from the projects LALWeco (Long-term Autonomous Laser Weed Control) and GROW (Grassland maintenance with Robot Operated Laser Weeding). Here, LZH researches methods with partners where AI-supported systems recognize weeds and use laser beams to damage the growth center with high precision. One advantage of the approach: the soil is preserved, and biodiversity can be promoted in the long term.

Background: German Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka

Expo 2025 is themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”. Over 150 countries and regions, as well as international organizations, are expected to participate. The German Pavilion "Wa! Germany." is operated on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action by Koelnmesse GmbH under the motto "Circular Economy for a Sustainable Future." The concept and implementation are managed by the consortium of facts and fiction (Cologne) and GL events (Lyon/Japan). The architectural design is by LAVA – Laboratory for Visionary Architecture.

Photos can be downloaded on the site oft he German Pavilion. 

Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH)
As an independent, non-profit research institute, the Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH) stands for innovative research, development, and consulting. Supported by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Economics, Transport and Building, the LZH is dedicated to selflessly promoting applied research in the field of photonics and laser technology. Founded in 1986, almost 200 employees are now working at the LZH.

The LZH offers solutions to current and future challenges with its smart photonics. Along the process chain, natural scientists and engineers work interdisciplinary together: from component development for specific laser systems or for quantum technologies to process developments for a wide variety of laser applications, for example for medical and agricultural technology or lightweight construction in the automotive sector. 17 successful spin-offs have emerged from the LZH to date. Thus, the LZH creates a strong transfer between fundamental science, application-oriented research, and industry - and uses light for innovation.