Australia
June 5, 2014

Australian vegetable and potato growers should use World Environment Day 2014 as an excuse to give themselves a pat on the back for their exceptional environmental practices, says peak industry body AUSVEG.

“Australia’s vegetable growers are amongst some of the most sustainable agricultural producers in the country, and arguably the world. Under the support of industry programs like EnviroVeg and EnviroVeg Platinum, they will continue to lead the pack in environmental stewardship,” said AUSVEG Environment Coordinator, Tim Shue.

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

EnviroVeg, is the vegetable industry’s comprehensive environmental management program and aims to improve growers’ bottom lines by encouraging the use of environmentally friendly practices on-farm and demonstrating best environmental practice to consumers.

“Over 400 growers, representing around 50 per cent of Australia’s vegetable growing land, are members of EnviroVeg.”

“This is a huge feat, with other industries trailing behind vegetables when it comes to managing the environment,” said Mr Shue.

AUSVEG has teamed up with retailer Coles to deliver EnviroVeg Platinum, which will provide participating growers with access to use the EnviroVeg logo on produce packaging.
“Some of Australia’s biggest vegetable producers have recently completed audits for EnviroVeg Platinum, which is extremely exciting, as their produce will soon feature the trademark EnviroVeg frog.”

“For the first time, consumers will be able to make environmentally-conscientious decisions when purchasing their favourite vegetables,” said Mr Shue.

AUSVEG also recently launched the EnviroVeg smartphone app, which allows growers to easily monitor areas such as energy and water use.

“The EnviroVeg App is yet another step forward for the vegetable industry and has provided growers with a convenient tool to allow them to observe responsible farming practices,” said Mr Shue.

For further information on the EnviroVeg Program, visit www.enviroveg.com.

Website: http://www.ausveg.com.au

Published: June 5, 2014