AgriTech New Zealand collaborates on climate

Over 20 representatives of New Zealand based agritech organisations are meeting with Irish and British organisations this month to discuss emissions reduction, soil conservation and environmental stewardship.

Brendan O’Connell, chief executive of AgriTech New Zealand, said the delegates represent a full cross-section of the agritech ecosystem and are seeking meaningful collaboration with international partners.

“Innovation in food production systems, also known as agritech, is the answer to some of the most complex challenges in feeding the world during a climate crisis. We appreciate the irony of burning fossil fuel in travelling to progress this mission and know that the relationships formed will ultimately accelerate the reduction of emissions,” said O’Connell.

New Zealand is already well known globally as a food and fibre producer but the agritech industry is looking to make an increasingly positive global impact. 

“Many evolving technologies focus on protecting the natural environment and supporting farmers and growers to adapt to both environmental and consumer demands. We’ve worked hard to create an itinerary that will bring innovators, investors, researchers, and regulators together to collaborate on future solutions that will be beneficial outcomes for everyone.”

The delegates include the like of AgriZeroNZ, the New Zealand public-private joint venture investing NZ$340m over the next four years to accelerate the reduction of agricultural emissions.

“It’s going to be a fantastic experience for everyone. These businesses are creating technologies to help solve some of the biggest global challenges and we’re looking forward to seeing business relationships flourish across the three nations,” said O’Connell.

The Ireland /UK agritech tour is organised by AgriTech New Zealand with support from the New Zealand Government’s Industry Transformation Plan funding.