What was it all about?

This project developed the first environmental benchmark for the Australian melon industry, giving growers a clearer understanding of the environmental impacts associated with melon production. Until now, the industry had limited information on its carbon footprint, water use and other environmental indicators. Using a life cycle assessment (LCA), the work measured these impacts and identified opportunities to improve the sustainability of melon production.

Researchers worked with melon growers across Australia to collect 12 months of on-farm data and develop an industry-wide environmental profile. The assessment identified the activities contributing most to emissions and resource use, including fertiliser production and use, transport of farm inputs, packaging, fuel use, electricity consumption and the disposal of rejected melons.

To help growers apply the findings on-farm, key outputs included an industry-average LCA report, four case studies highlighting opportunities to reduce environmental impacts, and a Microsoft Excel benchmarking tool. The tool allows growers to calculate their own greenhouse gas emissions and compare their performance against the industry benchmark.

These resources provide practical guidance on where to focus sustainability improvements. Recommended actions include improving fertiliser use efficiency, reducing fossil fuel use, adopting renewable energy, improving packaging, increasing saleable yields and reducing waste. Together, they are expected to help growers better understand their environmental performance, prioritise areas for improvement and strengthen the sustainability of Australian melon production over time. 

ACT NOW

Download the case studies here.