Where’s the beef? The challenge of sustainable food production

 

Theme: Sustainability
Time: 15:15
Room: Sustainability Hall 2

 

To view the presentations from the session

 

Click here - Where's the Beef, Ian Crute

Click here - Sustainable Protein Supply

Click here - Where's the Beef, Jim McKay

 

By 2050 global demand for food is predicted to rise by 75% (*UNFAO 2008) with demand for animal protein (meat milk, eggs) accounting for much of this growth. This is taking place against a challenging backdrop of climate change and increased competition for finite natural resources.

 

In 2011, The Sustainable Agriculture and Food Innovation platform intends to launch a call for collaborative R&D to develop innovative technologies for sustainable plant & animal protein production.

 

Technological innovation will be pivotal in delivering the requisite growth in productivity, whilst at the same time mitigating the environmental impact, of a global food industry worth over $5 trillion per annum.

 

Opportunities for novel application of technologies such as GPS & satellite technology, ICT, nanotechnology, novel materials & advanced engineering solutions and renewable energy generation, exist alongside the more established roles of biotechnology and environmental sciences in a global industry that is set to grow exponentially over the next two decades.

 

This seminar is aimed at anyone with an existing or potential future interest in the agri-food industry; the UKs largest manufacturing sector.

 

The objectives of the session are to

• Identify the key challenges and opportunities for sustainable food production
• Identify the key technology areas that will provide solutions to those challenges
• Provide a platform to present an outline scope and timeline for the CR&D call
• Provide a  networking opportunity for future collaboration and engagement

This seminar will be hosted by David Alvis, Lead Technologist of the Sustainable Agri-Food Innovation Platform, Technology Strategy Board; and Chris Warkup, Director of the Biosciences Knowledge Transfer Network. The seminar session will be joined by academics and industry advancing technology innovation in this sector.

 

The guest speakers include:

 

Jim McKay - Group Director for Science and Technology, EW Group

Ian Crute CBE - Chief Scientist, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board