Agriculture accounts for almost half of Aotearoa's emissions. The resources the primary industry develops, such as food and raw materials, are also essential to our survival, and are exposed to the effects of present and future climate change. Engineers in primary industries provide solutions on both fronts, minimising the negative impacts of industry on the environment, and reducing the impact of climate change on industry.
Climate change and Primary Industry in New Zealand
Written by Engineering New Zealand Fellow David Painter BE(Hons)(Mech), PhD (Engineering), FIPENZ, MRSNZ for the Sustainable Energy Forum, this article provides useful information and references on agriculture and climate change in Aotearoa.
Read David Painter’s article Climate change and Primary Industry in New Zealand
Climate Cloud, Climate change research for agriculture
Climate Cloud is a digital library of resources to help primary producers and associated businesses understand and respond to the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change. Each resource summarises a climate change risk assessment, impact assessment or adaptation research project led by a range of expert bodies, including Crown Research Institutes, universities and industry organisations.
Check out climate change research for agriculture at the Climate Cloud
Constructed wetlands could reduce nitrate concentrations
A presentation on the benefits of integrated constructed wetlands by Dr Michelle McKeown prompted the Waimakariri Water Zone Committee to consider the possibility of a pilot project to reduce nitrate, phosphorous, sedimentation and E. coli levels in local waterways, as well as improve biodiversity in the district. This innovative engineering solution can improve water quality and sequester carbon in the primary industries.
