Sustainable Production Portfolio

Introduction from Dr Derek Wilson, GM Science Sustainable Production

"The 150 researchers of the Sustainable Production Portfolio develop tools to ensure environmentally and economically sustainable production systems for food crops and seafood. We deliver this with expertise in five broad areas: Soil, Water and Environment; Crop and Fruit Production Systems; Bioengineering Technologies; Systems Modelling; and Seafood Production.

"Our research teams integrate knowledge from across the production and postharvest systems. This is achieved through the development of computer models that can simulate the systems for use as research and practical tools. Examples are assessing the likely impacts of climate change, predicting quality and yield, and optimising the cost-effective and environmentally responsible use of resources such as soil, water and nutrients.

"Achieving and maintaining the balance between economic and environmental sustainability is crucial to assure market access for the industries with which we work. Industries are increasingly being required to quantify their environmental footprints, and therefore verify the sustainability, of their production systems. This balance is also important when land use changes or becomes more intensive. We are developing tools that land managers and policy makers can use to help manage these changes sustainably. In addition, our engineers are developing innovative product harvesting, handling, packaging and sensor technologies to increase efficiency in the seafood and plant-based food industries."

Dr Derek Wilson, General Manager Science
Warrick Nelson, Portfolio Manager

Bioengineering Technologies
Dr Peter Schaare, Science Group Leader

Crop & Fruit Production Systems
Dr Stuart Tustin, Science Group Leader

Seafood Production
Alistair Jerrett, Science Group Leader

Soil, Water & Environment
Dr Mike Beare, Science Group Leader

Systems Modelling
Dr Brent Clothier, Science Group Leader

Corporate
Deborah Tod, Business Manager
Dr Claire Hall, Business Manager
Brian Ward, Business Manager
Sarah Bromley, Business Support Manager
Nick Thorpe, Business Support Manager