The new online film series produced by the BBC focuses on Western Sydney University’s groundbreaking research that is revolutionizing the future of food production.
"Unlocking Science" is a series of short films, articles and podcasts produced by BBC Storyworks for the International Science Council, sharing innovative and easy-to-understand stories about scientists around the world and their collaborative efforts to resolve inequality and create a more sustainable future.
One of the films "What is the future of indoor agriculture?" features Western Sydney University's state-of-the-art greenhouse, which is part of the National Vegetable Conservation and Planting Center (NVPCC) on the Hawkesbury campus, as well as university and Australian horticultural innovations.
It highlights the pioneering work of researchers at the University’s Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) who are using technological advancements in protected crops to help feed the world’s population.
Dr. Nisha Rakhesh of HIE, in collaboration with institutions in different agro-climatic regions in India, is helping to develop collaborative research programs to support agriculture in responding to challenges such as climate change and food security.
"Protected crops are about creating long-term sustainability for global agriculture-this is essential if we are to feed the world's rapidly growing population," said Dr. Rakhesh.
"It creates the best growing environment and maximizes crop yields by controlling everything from light and temperature to pollination and pests. We can increase crop yields by five times with only one-tenth of the input. This provides us with great potential for large-scale implementation in industry."
Importantly, the research results of the National Vegetable Conservation and Planting Center are empowering future researchers and innovators in India through the university’s agricultural entrepreneurship program.
It cooperates with multiple institutions in India to focus on improving the skills of the next generation, especially young women, who are studying new solutions for growing high-value crops such as saffron, which can be used by local communities first.
"Our work in India involves working with students, especially women, to support their enthusiasm for higher degree research in agricultural entrepreneurship and related fields. These students are using protected planting techniques to provide a solution locally. Small-scale trials and tests can be carried out, and then finally scaled up and implemented in a larger market," said Dr. Rakhesh.
"It is encouraging to know that the long-term future of agriculture and agriculture in India and other countries is firmly in the hands of the next generation. Faced with unprecedented climate challenges, they are using their new ways of thinking to plan a more feasible approach locally and globally. A continuous path. I have no doubt that they are ready to face these challenges head-on and design innovative agricultural solutions that benefit us all."