Where science meets sustainable production: A banana case study from tropical Queensland

Abstract

There is an increasing public call to produce food and fibre products using sustainable methods or systems. In our case study, the research and extension team used a holistic farming systems approach with banana producers to identify key environmental issues and explore management options for addressing these issues. Our experiences show that production research and technology can provide answers to some of the environmental problems identified, including research outcomes in plant nutrition and irrigation management, soil conservation, and integrated pest management. As a result group members have successfully reduced fertiliser use, pesticide use and soil erosion without reducing productivity. Using a participative approach highlighted the importance of integrating and adapting research outcomes to meet grower needs, and illustrated the value of combining 'smart science' with the practical 'knowhow' of farmers.