Martin Collison was a guest speaker at the APPG Science and Technology in Agriculture on 14th September alongside: Dr Jerry Knox, Reader in Agricultural Water Management, Cranfield University; Prof Chris Atkinson, Professor of Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich; Paul Smith, Business Development Director, Incinerator Replacement Technology Ltd; and, Dr David Firman, Head, NIAB CUF Potato Agronomy Unit
The meeting chaired by Mark Spencer MP focused on water security in agriculture so that we can manage the world’s water resources in the face of increased demand due to population growth, rising urbanisation and the effects of a changing climate. Farming and food production are the largest industrial consumers of water, together accounting for up to 70% of total fresh water use on a global basis. Competing demands on the world’s water resources are forecast to increase by 30% by 2030, and with a 50% increase in food supplies needed over the same period to keep pace with a growing world population, efficient management of water in agriculture and horticulture is a critical focus for the agri-tech community.
Martin’s presentation focused on the scale of problem, the need for new technology and solutions to meet the challenges we face on water and key areas where action is needed.
About the APPG - the APPG on Science and Technology in Agriculture provides an important forum for debate among UK politicians and stakeholders, not only to understand and recognise the contribution of agricultural science and innovation, but also to identify any policy, knowledge-based or regulatory barriers to its development and application. The Group was established in 2008. Meetings and membership are open to all Parliamentarians. For more information please visit www.appg-agscience.org.uk