Andrew Turnbull has joined Emerald Research Ltd (ERL) as Principal Agronomist to further Emerald’s ambitions within the potato, vegetable and salad sectors.
During lockdown, Andrew recently completed his Master of Research (MRes) with a project looking at improving photosynthesis and thereby improving input efficiency. Throughout the last 15 years, Andrew has focused on developing bio-nutrition, biological inoculant and biostimulant programmes and products within the agricultural, sports and amenity turf sectors.
One of Andrew’s claims to fame is that by using tailored bio-nutritional regimes on premier league football pitches, the tactics used in the game of football were changed. The turf allowed the ball to travel quicker, leading to a dramatic change in the speed of the game and player tactics.
Turning his attention to the agricultural sector, Andrew comments: “There is now an increasing focus on environmental and sustainable land management. I believe that, with what we’ve learnt and developed from the substantial academically-led research that ERL is undertaking, we can grasp this seismic opportunity to improve soil health, reduce fertiliser and fungicide inputs while also increasing marketable yields and nutritional quality. I am certain that ERL’s rounded and science-based approach provides real opportunity to improve plant and soil health in the wider agricultural arena.”
Simon Fox, CEO at ERL concludes: “Andrew’s knowledge and experience of soil science, bio-nutrition and biostimulants fit very well with ERL’s sustainable philosophy and holistic approach to plant and soil health for major improvements in marketable yields, farm margins and the drive towards sustainable agriculture.”