Zespri's Innovation Fund Enters Year Two, Focusing on Sustainable Practices for Future Growth
Zespri, the leading global marketer of kiwifruit, is excited to kick off the second year of its ZAG Innovation Fund, which has a dedicated mission to enhance sustainability within the kiwifruit industry. This initiative, which started its journey in November 2023, represents a robust investment program totaling $2 million, aimed at inspiring innovators and pioneers to advance solutions that not only boost orchard productivity but also propel meaningful decarbonization across agricultural practices.
With over $2.5 billion in revenue and a significant share of the world's kiwifruit market, Zespri firmly believes that innovation is key to meeting increasing global demand while also addressing environmental challenges. As part of their commitment to sustainability, the company is seeking solutions that enhance climate resilience and sustainable practices relevant to the cultivation and distribution of kiwifruit.
To date, the ZAG Innovation Fund has received an overwhelming response, with over 100 submissions from more than 15 countries, showcasing the widespread enthusiasm for developing cutting-edge solutions. Eleven projects are progressing into the pilot phase, with areas of focus including:
1. Products_that_are_good_for_kiwifruit: These initiatives aim to drive superior quality of kiwifruit and enhance orchard productivity.
2. Products_that_promote_wellbeing: These initiatives focus on the health benefits of kiwifruit consumption, promoting its role in nutrition and lifestyle.
3. Products_that_protect_the_environment: These initiatives are dedicated to environmental conservation, aiming to bolster biodiversity and combat climate change.
4. Products_that_benefit_growers: These initiatives are focused on fostering a flourishing kiwifruit industry that supports local growers and communities.
Among the innovative pilot projects being explored are the application of biochar on orchards, which has been proven to improve productivity while simultaneously reducing emissions. Another exciting development includes technology that analyzes the chemical signature of kiwifruit to optimize harvesting processes, ensuring maximum quality and minimal waste.
Jiunn Shih, Zespri's Chief Marketing, Innovation and Sustainability Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the momentum generated during the first year, stating, "Our initial outcomes have fostered connections with innovative problem solvers worldwide, and as we move into our second year, we plan to intensify our focus on climate resilience."
As the second year progresses, Zespri intends to shift its focus quarterly, beginning with prioritizing climate resilience as a vital aspect of their overarching commitment to becoming carbon positive by 2035. Future priorities will be aligned with sustainable practices that not only benefit the current generation of kiwifruit growers but also safeguard the environment for years to come.
While expanding its reach, Zespri's dedication to cultivating high-quality kiwifruit does not waver. Working alongside over 4,000 growers globally, Zespri's efforts through the ZAG initiative aim to establish a sustainable model that can set a benchmark within the agricultural sector.
For those keen to learn more about this exciting initiative or to apply for potential funding opportunities, Zespri invites applicants to visit their dedicated webpage. The comprehensive ZAG Annual Report detailing the achievements and pilots from the first year is also available for those interested in understanding the fund's impacts and scope.
Zespri's commitment to sustainable innovation not only serves to meet the growing demand for kiwifruit but also lays a strong foundation for a more resilient future for food systems across the globe.
With over $2.5 billion in revenue and a significant share of the world's kiwifruit market, Zespri firmly believes that innovation is key to meeting increasing global demand while also addressing environmental challenges. As part of their commitment to sustainability, the company is seeking solutions that enhance climate resilience and sustainable practices relevant to the cultivation and distribution of kiwifruit.
To date, the ZAG Innovation Fund has received an overwhelming response, with over 100 submissions from more than 15 countries, showcasing the widespread enthusiasm for developing cutting-edge solutions. Eleven projects are progressing into the pilot phase, with areas of focus including:
1. Products_that_are_good_for_kiwifruit: These initiatives aim to drive superior quality of kiwifruit and enhance orchard productivity.
2. Products_that_promote_wellbeing: These initiatives focus on the health benefits of kiwifruit consumption, promoting its role in nutrition and lifestyle.
3. Products_that_protect_the_environment: These initiatives are dedicated to environmental conservation, aiming to bolster biodiversity and combat climate change.
4. Products_that_benefit_growers: These initiatives are focused on fostering a flourishing kiwifruit industry that supports local growers and communities.
Among the innovative pilot projects being explored are the application of biochar on orchards, which has been proven to improve productivity while simultaneously reducing emissions. Another exciting development includes technology that analyzes the chemical signature of kiwifruit to optimize harvesting processes, ensuring maximum quality and minimal waste.
Jiunn Shih, Zespri's Chief Marketing, Innovation and Sustainability Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the momentum generated during the first year, stating, "Our initial outcomes have fostered connections with innovative problem solvers worldwide, and as we move into our second year, we plan to intensify our focus on climate resilience."
As the second year progresses, Zespri intends to shift its focus quarterly, beginning with prioritizing climate resilience as a vital aspect of their overarching commitment to becoming carbon positive by 2035. Future priorities will be aligned with sustainable practices that not only benefit the current generation of kiwifruit growers but also safeguard the environment for years to come.
While expanding its reach, Zespri's dedication to cultivating high-quality kiwifruit does not waver. Working alongside over 4,000 growers globally, Zespri's efforts through the ZAG initiative aim to establish a sustainable model that can set a benchmark within the agricultural sector.
For those keen to learn more about this exciting initiative or to apply for potential funding opportunities, Zespri invites applicants to visit their dedicated webpage. The comprehensive ZAG Annual Report detailing the achievements and pilots from the first year is also available for those interested in understanding the fund's impacts and scope.
Zespri's commitment to sustainable innovation not only serves to meet the growing demand for kiwifruit but also lays a strong foundation for a more resilient future for food systems across the globe.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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