Lecturer contributes to fruit sustainability workshop in Myanmar

Posted 9 April 2018

Harper Adams University Lecturer Laura Vickers has participated in a workshop in Myanmar, focused on producing fruit more sustainably in the Southeast Asian nation.

Fruits that came into the spot light included mangos, pineapples, watermelons and dragon fruits. One of the overall aims was to increase productivity and quality whilst keeping the amount of chemicals being used in the production of these fruits minimal.

The workshop was part of Myanmar’s Green Economy Green Growth strategy and aimed to promote capacity building, networking, collaboration and policies to promote overall greening of Myanmar.

Laura said: “From the workshop, a multiyear programme and concept note are being created to present to the Myanmar government, to help develop best management practices that address a number of topics, including; social, health, economic, and ecological benefits of green fruits, along with providing education, training and certification for green fruits.

“I gave three talks during the event which included: health and wellbeing; sustainable water and soil practices; and integrated pest management incorporating plant physiology.

“We also got the opportunity to visit a mango orchard, along with meeting U Aung Naing Oo, the Director General of the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA) under the Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development.

“There were also addresses by U Saw Min Win, President of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) and Dr Tin Htut, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation.

“It was an interesting experience, and I believe that it’ll help contribute to changes in making fruit production in Myanmar more sustainable.”