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Issue 296: November 2022

Agriculture has shaped our history and underpins our society. Without modern advancements, agriculture would not be able to produce enough food to feed and clothe us. However, the sector faces challenges – from climate change, to a growing global population; from biosecurity, to the need for more sustainable practices.

After a COVID-19 induced hiatus, CSIRO’s AgCatalyst event returned earlier this month to showcase ways agriculture can continue to advance well into the future. This month’s issue of ECOS looks at some of those agricultural challenges, and explores ways that science is looking to overcome them – and other problems.

A thriving future: Trends in agricultural innovation

CSIRO Agriculture and Food Director Dr Michael Robertson discusses the trends and research opportunities shaping the industry’s future.

Bran is good, Big Bran is better. A rice with bigger bran for multiple micronutrients

In a world where nutrient deficiencies are common and food costs continue to rise, could a healthier form of everyday staple rice be a solution? Let us introduce you to the aleurone - aka: bran.

Harnessing the invisible and invaluable microbes that enhance our food, environment and health

What do our gut microbiome, soil, persistent chemicals and dung beetles have in common? That’s what our MOSH Future Science Platform is working to find out.

Soil data to help sustainably grow our food into the future

Soil is at the centre of our lives – it’s keeping us alive, literally! So it’s important we look after the soil that looks after us. A big part of that is access to quality soil data. A new collaborative initiative, the Australian National Soil Information System (ANSIS), is aiming to do just that – provide online access to shared, nationally consistent soil data and information. ANSIS will give us a better understanding of our soils, enabling us to better manage them.

Proteins of the future: using precision fermentation to develop new ingredients

How do we produce more protein to feed more people in a more sustainable way? One innovative technique that has emerged is precision fermentation.

Shifting frontiers: mapping Africa’s agricultural land under a future climate

New maps reveal how climate change could shift agricultural and pastoral margins in Africa by 2050. They could provide insights to safeguard future food security and livelihoods.

Methane levels and the role of science in mitigation

The recent, rapid rise in levels of methane in our atmosphere is causing concern among scientists. However, the reason for the accelerated increase is unclear. So why is it happening?

Gippsland Lakes face increased threats caused by climate change

By 2050, the Gippsland Lakes could experience temperature increases of 1.6 degrees Celsius, sea-level rise of 25 centimetres and more frequent bushfires. What can be done to protect the site?