This review assesses the current evidence base available in the scientific literature regarding the performance of different precision spraying technologies, including sprayer based spot and patch application systems and Uncrewed Aerial Spraying Systems (UASS). While numerous studies demonstrate substantial potential for pesticideuse and risk reduction, often with 30-80% use reduction for herbicides and variable reductions for other products, there is limited quantified evidence to confirm associated decreases in operator exposure, environmental contamination, drift, or runoff. Reported efficacy outcomes are also inconsistent across crops and conditions, and comparable economic analyses are limited. For UASS in particular, validated drift and deposition measurements associated with precision spraying technologies and techniques remain scarce. In summary, the scientific literature indicates promising technological potential for risk reduction, but sufficient robust, standardised datasets required to support the regulatory adaptation needed to fully enable risk-based policy shifts remain lacking.
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