Agri-Tech Innovation in Australia 2019
The Agri-Tech Global Expert Mission (GEM) travelled to Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney in February 2019 and in this publication we share the information and insights gathered during the delegation’s time in Australia.
Abstract from outcome report:
There are clear opportunities for collaboration with Australia to address a common challenge in agri-tech.
Both the UK and Australia recognise the potential productivity gains from the application of satellite data and revenue rewards from associated services. Collaborative research and development (R&D) could help both countries to gain a global edge in this area.
Potential benefits of Earth Observation (EO) applications include improved decision making about harvest times, future yields, grazing locations, irrigation and targeting of inputs such as fertiliser, fungicide and pesticide.
The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) has established use in precision farming and with improvements in positioning accuracy will be pivotal in the uptake of autonomous farm vehicles. Reductions in cost and latency are also bringing attractive communication solutions from space, and with 5G integration, there is anticipation of more hybrid connectivity offerings and satellite-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) systems.
Clive Blacker, Head of Business Development, Arable and Produce Map of Ag:
“Agriculture globally is being challenged to supply more food to feed expanding populations. Collaboration will be key in an increasingly digital world for farmers to develop ideas, technology and capabilities in order to meet demands. Learning first hand about the common and shared issues we face to produce quality low environmental impact food and the innovative solutions and innovations that are required to feed the world was inspirational. There are clear similarities and challenges which by working together we can combine skills and expertise to increase the leverage the fortunes of all related parties.”
Sandeep Sandhu, Innovate UK KTN
“During our visit to Australia we had very positive meetings with a range of stakeholders from government agencies to businesses and research organisations. These meetings highlighted many synergies and shared areas of interest in the agri-tech sector and offer substantial opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration between the UK and Australia.”
Watch the recording from our Dissemination Webinar which took place following the Expert Mission.
About Global Expert Missions
The Global Expert Missions (GEM) programme is funded by Innovate UK to support the Industrial Strategy’s ambition for the UK to be the international partner of choice for science and innovation. Led by Innovate UK KTN, GEMs play an important role in building strategic partnerships, providing deep insight into the opportunities for UK innovation and shaping future bilateral collaboration programmes.