Suzano completes first phase of remote harvester operation pilot in Brazil

Suzano has completed the first phase of a harvester teleoperation pilot at its forestry unit in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, allowing an operator to remotely run a harvesting machine up to 350 kilometres away from a control tower in Ribas do Rio Pardo. Developed with Komatsu and S4E TECH since April 2026, the pilot harvested 12,000 trees and has trained seven operators so far.

Why this mattersRemote harvesting could cut labour and safety costs in wood supply, a key input cost for pulp and paper producers.

• Operators control a harvesting machine remotely from Suzano's forestry control tower in Ribas do Rio Pardo, Mato Grosso do Sul
• Testing began in April 2026 and the first phase harvested 12,000 trees
• The system allows an operating radius of up to 350 kilometres between operator and machine
• Project developed with Komatsu and S4E TECH combining teleoperation technology with forestry processes
• Seven employees are currently trained to operate the remote system

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