Key UC contact
What We Did
Our project idea was chosen as a winner at the TechJumpstart Competition organised by the University of Canterbury with the support of KiwiNet and the winner of WNT Venture Capital Prize in 2017. With the support of PreSeed Accelerator Fund from KiwiNet, a proof-of-concept project was carried out to develop a novel low-temperature or frost protection method of food plants based on selected biodegradable materials. This is a springboard for the innovative projects underway, including pest and disease protection, needed in the food and fibre sector.
Who Was Involved
Denver Adams (a UC Master of Science graduate) was a research assistant.
Why It Matters
In the case of frost in early spring, substantial loss of fruit crops due to frost-triggered injuries could ensue. The approaches to prevent this are basically based on manipulating the immediate layers of air surrounding plant surface. For example, fly a helicopter over plants in the early hours of the night (that is not pleasant and could only be afforded by some growers). In our project, we have only used some inexpensive biomaterials that are generally regarded as safe to people and the environment. This is also the aim of our approach at the University of Canterbury to find solutions for the other needs in the food and fibre sector.
Learn More
- "Tech Jumpstart Winners Propose Bold Commercial Innovations” (17 October, 2017):www.scoop.co.nz/stories/ED1710/S00050/tech-jumpstart-winners-propose-bold-commercial-innovations
- Biodegradable coating to help achieve food security” (University of Canterbury Research Report 2018)
