SIEMENS
Using tools such as digital twins – virtual replicas of physical processes that allow real‐time simulation and testing – Moiru enables Natura’ s researchers and local operators to observe and optimise extraction without interrupting production.
“ In projects like Moiru, digitalisation brings structure and predictability to community-based production,” José Borges says.“ By improving process stability, safety and quality, that local community can increase their income and access more demanding markets.”
Smart sensors and intelligent valves monitor variables like pressure, temperature and steam flow, creating a live data stream that makes production more predictable.
This combination of visibility and control improves both quality and sustainability. According to Natura, early results show significant reductions in energy and water use, while improved process stability enhances product consistency and worker safety.
Empowering local economies through technology Yet the Moiru project is about more than efficiency. At its core, it’ s a model for how technology can serve inclusive development. By enabling that community to perform higher value‐added production tasks – such as essential oil extraction – rather than delivering raw materials, it keeps more economic value within the rainforest.
Ana reveals that this change is generating measurable social progress.
“Technology by itself is not enough. It needs to be co-created, adapted and embedded into local realities”
José Borges Frias Head of Strategic Innovation Siemens Brazil
“ Digitalisation has allowed that community to take on more advanced stages of production,” she says.“ That means more income, more skills and safer working environments.”
For local operators, the digital tools introduced by Siemens do not replace human expertise – they amplify it.
José explains:“ We focus on capacity building: that community is trained to operate and manage these new systems, strengthening local autonomy and technical literacy, and consequently creating long-term value rather than dependency.”
In effect, the project makes local agro‐industry more competitive while strengthening the business case for forest conservation. When a community can generate sustainable livelihoods through regenerative production, deforestation pressures decline.
72 June 2026