MARKET DEVELOPMENT
Researchers Develop New Oil Palm Model
Researchers Develop New Oil Palm Model
16/01/2015 (Daily Times) - Australian scientists have developed a model for oil palm cultivation, aimed at helping growers of the crop maximize the yields of their plantations, while minimising detrimental environmental impacts.
The model was recently published in the journal Environmental Modeling & Software.
“Oil palm has become a major crop in the tropics, cultivated on more than 39 million acres of land,” co-author Dr Paul Nelson of James Cook University (JCU) said.
“Demand for the product continues to grow, and the industry is expected to keep expanding in the foreseeable future.
“At the same time, there is significant concern about the industry’s environmental impacts, with many purchasers wanting only certified sustainable palm oil.
“Given that this is one of the most important industries in the tropics, our aim is to contribute to a research-based approach to its management. Growers need information that will help them make decisions that are good for both productivity and the environment.”
The model was recently published in the journal Environmental Modeling & Software.
“Oil palm has become a major crop in the tropics, cultivated on more than 39 million acres of land,” co-author Dr Paul Nelson of James Cook University (JCU) said.
“Demand for the product continues to grow, and the industry is expected to keep expanding in the foreseeable future.
“At the same time, there is significant concern about the industry’s environmental impacts, with many purchasers wanting only certified sustainable palm oil.
“Given that this is one of the most important industries in the tropics, our aim is to contribute to a research-based approach to its management. Growers need information that will help them make decisions that are good for both productivity and the environment.”