3 minute read
No food, no people
Words by Hugh Chesterman : HortNZ
Mike Chapman spoke about the importance of investment in R&D if horticulture is to continue to thrive
The importance of food security and people having access to fresh and healthy fruit and vegetables was highlighted at the launch of the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables at Parliament on 10 March.
“Access to fresh fruit and vegetables is essential for healthy people. What often gets forgotten is the vital role that the people who grow fruit and vegetables play in ensuring fresh fruit and vegetables are on the table,” said Horticulture New Zealand chief executive, Mike Chapman. In 2019, the United Nations declared 2021 as the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables; which has become much more significant since Covid-19 struck the global food supply. “Covid has shown us that we cannot rely on imports and has highlighted how lucky we are in New Zealand that we can grow most of our own food. We need to make sure that we protect this ability. “But at the same time, fruit and vegetable growers are being asked to meet increasingly strict objectives for climate change and compliance in general, without the important role of feeding people being factored in. “If New Zealand is to meet its climate change and economic goals, growers and farmers need to be empowered to adapt and reduce emissions.
“The Paris Accord clearly states that producing food while adapting to climate change is vital. No food, no people. As a country, we need to grow fruit and vegetables to feed ourselves and to export, to earn essential overseas revenue.
“Give our growers the tools, incentives and time, and we could lead the world in climate change adaptation and global food production.This will require significant research and development to find the tools and techniques needed to make a difference.”
From left to right, Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor speaking to Emma Boase (HortNZ), Lincoln Roper, Jack Keeys (KPMG), George Hyauiason (Massey Hort Society)
Horticulture New Zealand, along with partner organisations United Fresh, Plant & Food Research and 5+ A Day, will be using this United Nations initiative to promote the importance of fruit and vegetables for health and the economy.
United Fresh NZ will work to raise awareness and recognition of the nutritional benefits of consuming fruit and vegetables. The successful Fruit & Vegetables in Schools initiative will be highlighted along with the need to expand the initiative to reach more children in vulnerable communities. Consumption of fruit and vegetables will run consistently through 5+ A Day Charitable Trust promotions. Plant & Food Research will be working to bring attention to the science and scientists working on enhancing New Zealand’s fruit and vegetable sector. They will also share nutritional facts about key crops from the Food Composition database through collaborations with 5+ A Day and Horticulture New Zealand.
