Mutual benefits of partnerships between SE Asia and Australia for sustainable integrated weed management

Deirdre Lemerle, Jaquie Mitchell, Anika Molesworth, Jhoana Opena, Gomathy Palaniappan, Cathy Reade, Nicola Wunderlich, Hanwen Wu

Research output: Other contribution to conferenceAbstractpeer-review

Abstract

Summary In Australia over the last 50 years, development of herbicide technologies has enabled conservation agriculture and cropping systems intensification. The focus now includes integration of non-chemical tactics to minimise weed impacts and retard the spread of herbicide resistance. Lessons were learnt from mistakes made from herbicide overuse during the ‘golden age’ of herbicides. In contrast, some countries in SE Asia are only at various early stages of incorporating herbicides into their rice-based farming systems. This process is driven and exacerbated by shortages of appropriately skilled labour, mechanisation, water scarcity, rising production costs, and is compounded with additional threats and risks associated with climate change. Problems with herbicide performance and safety are resulting from lack of local capacity in herbicide technologies and poor regulation. How can Australian weed scientists and others support safe herbicide integration and stewardship for weed management in SE Asia? We consider the best ways to develop partnerships and collaborative networks with equity and diversity in gender and age on farm and in research organisations. R&D organisations have reduced capacity due to cutbacks and an aging workforce. Effort is required to encourage a diverse range of people including the ‘Nextgen’ and others into agricultural development to address these issues. We discuss the benefits and costs of participating in international development and the opportunities for R&D, leadership, improved networks, mentoring and volunteering. We examine more effective models for capacity building for R&D training networks, improved engagement and collaboration by the public and private sectors, and better communication with social media and other options. This discussion aims to provide some guidance for ‘future-proofing’ weed management across our region. Enhanced partnerships and collaboration will diminish weed impacts, strengthen ‘clean-green’ food production systems, reduce poverty and enhance socio-economic and political regional harmony.
Original languageEnglish
Pages13
Number of pages1
Publication statusPublished - 2024
Event23rd Australasian Weeds Conference: Breaking the cycle - Towards Sustainable Weed Management - Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Brisbane, Australia
Duration: 25 Aug 202429 Aug 2024
Conference number: 23
https://icebergevents.eventsair.com/awc24/abstract-submission
https://icebergevents.eventsair.com/awc24/e-proceedings (Proceedings and program)
https://icebergevents.eventsair.com/awc24/ (Conference website)

Conference

Conference23rd Australasian Weeds Conference
Abbreviated titleSustainable weed management
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityBrisbane
Period25/08/2429/08/24
OtherInvasive Species Queensland (formerly the Weed Society of Queensland) is excited to collaborate with the Council of Australasian Weed Societies (CAWS) in hosting the 23rd Australasian Weeds Conference (AWC). Join us from August 25 to 29, 2024 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre for this significant national event.

Weeds continue to impact biodiversity, agriculture, and public spaces, posing challenges to productivity and land use. The 23rd AWC provides a platform to unite, share ideas, and explore effective weed management strategies. We extend a warm invitation to all involved in weed research, policy and extension to join us and contribute to this vital discussion.
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