Reduction of impact – production enhancers

Current agricultural production with its use of fertilisers and pesticides in plant production and antibiotics in animal production, has brought challenges through their environmental impact. New approaches are researched to reduce that impact and improve the footprint of production.

SPECIFIC R&I BREAKTHROUGH TOPICS

New approaches to fertilisers: Soil nutrients are usually replenished using non-organic fertilisers. The market for the use of bio-fertilisers is extending, as is the understanding of the soil microbiome, fungi, nematodes, protozoa, and other beneficial organisms to convert unavailable plant nutrients to an available form for plant uptake.
New approaches to pesticides: Crop yield efficiencies are greatly diminished by the effect of parasites, insects, weeds, and other natural organisms. Chemical pesticides are commonly used, but many are considered hazardous for the environment or humans if used in large quantities. New solutions lead to pesticides that have lesser effects against the environment, biodiversity, and human health.
New approaches to animal antibiotics: Livestock farmers use antibiotics to keep animals safe from bacterial infections. However, the excessive use of antibiotics can create antibiotic-resistant bacteria which could be worse for animals and humans. Novel research approaches seek alternatives and new ways to reduce antibiotic use while maintaining animal health.

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