What is it all about?

This project is building a clear, evidence-based picture of the environmental impacts of Australian cherry production. 

A life cycle assessment (LCA) is being conducted to measure key environmental indicators across cherry farms, including greenhouse gas emissions, land use, water use and nutrient losses. The aim is to provide reliable, industry specific data that helps growers and the cherry industry understand where environmental impacts occur and where improvements are most practical and effective.

Researchers are working directly with growers to collect farm level data from representative production regions. This information is used to assess environmental performance up to the farm gate and identify the main drivers of emissions and resource use. Case studies will inform a broader industry wide assessment, supported by desktop reviews and international benchmarking.

The project will deliver practical reports and plain English summaries for growers. These will highlight environmental “hot spots”, identify best practice opportunities, and recommend realistic pathways for improvement. 

The findings will also support more accurate carbon footprint calculations for cherry farms and help inform industry sustainability strategies, future investments and market messaging.