As the globe takes strides in its mission to decarbonise and the Australian Government develops its Net Zero 2050 plan, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) is playing its part through its commitment to renewables and sustainable agriculture.
QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou said global sustainability standards are at the forefront of the organisation’s mind.
“Whilst the world is in this mode of decarbonisation, the supply of product to marketplace is going to hinge upon how we’re moving towards net zero targets while meeting global sustainability objectives of the international marketplace,” he said.
QCAR aims to support growers by recognising the current environmental stewardship which growers are undertaking, the programs they adopt and the farming practices they apply.
Mr Spyrou recently sat down with Charles Starkings, Nutrien Ag Solutions Sustainability Field Manager for Queensland and New South Wales, which was not only an exchange of ideas; it was a deep dive into global sustainability programs, aligned with the rigorous standards of National and International Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.
The insightful discussion was an opportunity to explore the dynamic landscape of sustainability, focusing on QCAR’s commitment to fostering a more eco-friendly, socially responsible, and ethically sound future.
As QCAR navigates these crucial subjects, they aim to decipher how they can collectively contribute to the greater good, aligning their initiatives with ESG standards that resonate on a global scale.
With a variety of sustainability programs being tried and tested in the region, QCAR are committed to exploring and identifying the most appropriate programs for their clients.
“We’re willing to work with all parties,” Mr Spyrou said.
“What’s in the best interest of our QCAR members is what it really comes down to.
“These programs will allow us to demonstrate and quantify the benefits to the environment of our existing proactive farming practices.”
While QCAR have proven their commitment to the future of sustainable agriculture, the organisation is experiencing a rapid period of growth throughout the Burdekin, Mackay and Herbert regions following their recent rebrand from Burdekin Cane Burdekin Cane Agriculture Organisation.
“Our immediate focus is on the season and trying to best remedy the current circumstances for our producers so they can maximise their production,” Mr Spyrou added.
“That means working with sugar millers to best supply cane in a way that optimises their sugar content.
“We’re actively focussed on working with sugar millers to get the 2023 season under our belt.”
As QCAR’s network grows and global sustainability goals near, the organisation aims for its producers to ultimately be appreciated for the value that their product will contribute to the renewable energy market.
L-R Nutrien Ag Solutions Sustainability Field Manager for Queensland and New South Wales Charles Starkings, QCAR Director Christian Lago and QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou