Helping the world transition to sustainable agriculture

The challenge is clear: global food demand is rising rapidly, yet natural resources must be protected, and the environmental impact of farming reduced. Agricultural innovation is at the heart of these solutions – it is the only way that food systems will be able to meet the demand without depleting nature.

Why Collaboration Matters

This is a hugely complex global challenge; no single organisation or institute can solve these challenges in isolation. We know the power of interdisciplinary science to increase the resilience of food. However, these scientific solutions cannot remain in laboratories and academia. From farmers to growers to industry to supply chains – everyone must connect to ensure that agricultural innovations reach the people who need it the most.

This is not just a national challenge; most value chains are global. Therefore, to create real impact, agricultural innovation must be global too.

Connecting Research and Industry

So how can research institutes and global companies work together to drive change?

• Providing expertise - Research institutes bring knowledge that companies may not have in-house, including advanced data science and technologies that increase R&D efficiency.
• Co-creating solutions - From restoring soil health to advancing biological pest control, partnerships can focus on overcoming specific agricultural challenges.
• Supporting innovation – Researchers and innovators with proven, scalable ideas that offer both impact and return on investment can attract the investment needed to grow.

At the Earlham Institute, we are committed to supporting the translation of our research through strategic partnerships, research collaborations, student placements and employee exchanges, training, consultancy, contract research, services, or licensing.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Innovation

When asked what technology would shape agriculture in the next 50 years, the answer was unanimous: genome editing is going to change the game – now we are only just scratching the surface of its potential.

Transitioning to sustainable agriculture is a complex challenge. But one thing is certain: progress will only come if we find solutions together.

Thank you to the Anglian Innovation Partnership team for organising this event.