Quantum Forecasting: BASF and PASQAL Partner to Advance Weather Modelling
April 4, 2025
As climate change accelerates and global agriculture faces rising uncertainty, accurate weather modeling has never been more critical. BASF, a global leader in agricultural solutions, is teaming up with French quantum computing company PASQAL to explore how quantum technology can sharpen our view of the skies—and support more sustainable farming.
This partnership centers on one high-impact goal: using quantum computing to improve the precision of weather prediction models, which in turn enhances crop growth simulations and pesticide application strategies.
Quantum Neural Networks for Complex Forecasting
At the heart of the collaboration is PASQAL’s neutral atom quantum computing platform. These systems are uniquely suited to solving the nonlinear differential equations that underlie atmospheric modeling. By applying quantum neural networks, PASQAL aims to unlock faster and more accurate simulations than what’s possible with classical computing alone.
For BASF, the practical benefit is significant. Better weather modeling informs decisions around when to plant, irrigate, and apply crop protection—maximizing yields while reducing waste. Predicting wind drift during pesticide application, for instance, helps minimize off-target impact and supports more environmentally responsible farming.
From Farm Fields to Climate Models
The implications of this research extend beyond agricultural plots. The same quantum-powered models could feed into larger-scale climate simulations, helping scientists and policymakers respond more effectively to extreme weather and shifting climate patterns.
This early-stage work sets the stage for deeper integration of quantum technology into environmental modeling workflows. As PASQAL continues to scale its hardware and refine its algorithms, its platform could become an essential tool for organizations like BASF looking to combine innovation with impact.
A Glimpse at Quantum’s Sustainable Potential
This collaboration highlights the growing convergence of quantum computing and sustainability. While the technology is still in its early days, partnerships like this one demonstrate that quantum innovation is already starting to shape how we manage complex global challenges—from food security to climate resilience.