Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, June 14, 2024
Fieldays 2024, currently underway from June 12, 2024 to June 15, 2024, aims to once again address the pressing challenges of environmental sustainability, climate mitigation, and food production in the agricultural sector.
This year’s event marks the return of the popular Fieldays Sustainability Hub, alongside an array of other specialised hubs.
A Gateway to Green Innovations
The Sustainability Hub, a focal point of Fieldays, is dedicated to providing visitors with crucial information on sustainability through engaging activities and sessions aimed at fostering conversations for better environmental outcomes.
“We are excited to see the evolution of the Fieldays Sustainability Hub for its second year,” said Steve Chappell, Fieldays Programme Manager. “We are inviting our visitors to explore everyday sustainability questions, such as the fate of household chemicals or protecting plantings from predators. Experts will be on hand to provide answers,” he added.
‘Talk to an Expert’ Sessions
These sessions feature specialists discussing various sustainability topics, including waterways, soil health, predators, biodiversity, land-use, power usage, and agri-finance. Collaborations with new supporters such as Waikato Regional Council and mana whenua Ngāti Hau Mahi Trust have enriched the hub’s offerings.
Visitors can also expect virtual reality experiences and interactive activities designed to educate on environmental sustainability, encouraging discussions and promoting positive changes in the sector.
This year, new participants like ‘Our Land & Water,’ AsureQuality, Lincoln Agritech, QCONZ, Predator Free NZ Trust, Tyrewise, Powerhouse Wind, and Rural Energy will join returning exhibitors eClean Envirotech and Instep Carbon and Sustainability Programmes. These organizations will showcase practical solutions to sustainability challenges.
Fieldays’ Commitment to Sustainability
Fieldays has partnered with New Zealand-based instep™ since 2012 to develop and implement a sustainability program aimed at reducing the event’s carbon footprint. Janine Monk, New Zealand National Fieldays Society Community and Sustainability Executive, continues to spearhead efforts to minimise the event’s environmental impact.
“Careful messaging and eco-friendly initiatives help educate our visitors on waste recycling,” said Ms Monk. “Our partnership with Closed Loop helps us collect and separate waste streams.”
Monk also engages directly with exhibitors to set sustainability goals and educate them on waste reduction methods. “I held an online educational session with our food vendors to share waste reduction ideas and get everyone on board our sustainability journey,” she noted.
In addition, the Fieldays Sustainability Trail, accessible via the Fieldays App, will guide visitors to nearly 40 exhibitors demonstrating sustainable practices and initiatives.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
