Emissions and Climate Adaptation
About
Australia’s agriculture sector is on the frontline of climate change. Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events are putting pressure on food production, farming livelihoods, and national food security. At The Agrifood Innovation Institute, we’re responding to this urgent challenge by developing innovative solutions that help farmers adapt while reducing emissions across the agrifood system. Our Emissions and Climate Adaptation program brings together world-class research, education, and collaboration to build farming systems that are resilient, sustainable, and future-ready.
Our researchers are tackling the complex issues that matter most to farmers and policy makers—how to cut greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, manage water more efficiently, protect soil health, and maintain biodiversity in farming landscapes. We’re also exploring the social and economic dimensions of change, including consumer behaviour, equitable transitions, and market mechanisms for emissions reporting. From climate risk modelling to new technologies for drought resilience, our work supports practical, science-based solutions for farming and food production in a changing climate.
The Agrifood Innovation Institute at The Australian National University offers access to cutting-edge facilities—from climate simulation labs to soil science centres—and partners with government, industry, and communities across Australia and globally. If you're working on challenges related to agriculture, food, farming, emissions, or climate change, we invite you to collaborate with us. Contact us via the link below to explore how The Australian National University’s expertise in emissions reduction and climate adaptation can support your goals and strengthen Australia’s agricultural future.
We offer research and consulting services that help you stay ahead of the curve. With access to world-class facilities and deep expertise in soil, water, biodiversity, and agrifood policy, we’re ready to partner with you to tackle complex challenges and deliver practical, science-backed outcomes. We work with clients to:
Advance Climate-Resilient Farming in Australia
Support innovative agricultural practices that build climate-resilient plant and animal production systems. Protect Australian farms from heat stress, frost, floods, and other extreme weather events caused by climate change.
Diversify Agricultural Enterprises to Reduce Risk
Encourage system and enterprise diversification across Australian farms to manage climate and market risks. Boost resilience through mixed farming, regenerative agriculture, and innovative business models.
Improve Water Use Efficiency in Agriculture
Drive innovation in water-efficient farming. Adopt precision irrigation, drought-resistant crops, and smart water management to reduce emissions and protect food production.
Use Accurate Climate Forecasting for Smarter Farming
Empower farmers with reliable weather and climate forecasting tools. Make informed decisions to protect crops, livestock, and food supply chains from climate variability
Strengthen Food Systems and Value Chains Against Climate and Geopolitical Shocks
Build resilient food systems and value chains that can withstand climate disruptions and global geopolitical tensions. Ensure secure access to food across Australia and beyond
Address Social Impacts of Climate Change on Agriculture
Ensure climate-smart agriculture solutions are inclusive. Support communities affected by inequitable climate impacts, migration, and displacement linked to food insecurity.
Solutions
The Agrifood Innovation Institute will support up to six ANU students (undergraduate or postgraduate) to attend the National Renewables in Agriculture Conference in Bendigo on 23 July 2025.