A Hort Innovation framework has been developed to help limit food waste, packaging, and boosting water and energy efficiency for Australian farmers.
The new Australian-Grown Horticulture Sustainability Framework was created with input from more than 600 industry participants.
It details 17 focus areas that align with existing business measures and initiatives, as well as the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
Hort Innovation chief executive Matt Brand said the framework has been developed for Australian horticulture industry participants at a time when consumers and investors are increasingly asking for evidence of ethical and sustainable practices from their food producers.
"The aim of this Sustainability Framework is to acknowledge the significant contribution Aussie fresh produce growers make to the nation's families and environment through the provision of fresh and nutritious food," he said.
"It also promotes sustainable and responsible care for our natural environment and provides a vital roadmap for a stronger Australian farming future."
Mr Brand said the initiative aligns with a range of research efforts being delivered by Hort Innovation, in line with the target to grow agriculture to $100 billion by 2030.
Mulgowie Farming Company's Shane Quinn said the framework is a useful resource for industry.
"Mulgowie Farming is proud to use ethical practices when growing produce from our soils," he said.
"We look forward to the Sustainability Framework providing the means to demonstrate positive environmental impacts and industry issues of concern to a wide range of stakeholders."
Market development manager at the Almond Board of Australia, Joseph Ebbage, said sustainability is important to customers both domestically and internationally.
"Our trade partners in Europe are looking for suppliers that can meet sustainability metrics," he said.
"Our ability to communicate sustainability credentials is vital to maintaining and these relationships."
- Visit: www.horticulture.com.au
