What is it all about?

This project is building a clear, evidence-based picture of the environmental footprint of Australian potato production. A life cycle assessment (LCA) will be conducted to measure key environmental impacts from farm inputs through to packing, covering both fresh and processing potato systems.

Researchers are working with growers across major production regions to collect real farm data. Detailed case studies will examine different production types and growing conditions, while a broader industry wide assessment will combine data from multiple growers to create representative national benchmarks. The study focuses on climate change (carbon footprint), land use, water use and scarcity, and freshwater and marine nutrient losses.

The LCA will identify where the main environmental “hot spots” occur in potato production and where changes to practices could deliver the biggest improvements. Based on these findings, the project will develop practical recommendations to help the industry reduce impacts, strengthen sustainability narratives and guide future research and investment decisions.

Outputs will include grower case study reports, an industry level LCA report, and clear recommendations for improving environmental performance. The project will also produce guidance to help adapt existing carbon footprint calculators for potato businesses, supporting ongoing measurement and improvement across the industry.