Backed by $1.75 million in Government and industry funding, the project has already upgraded 29 refrigeration systems nationwide.
It has also reduced potential emissions by more than 17,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
Seeka sustainability and risk manager Lloyd Franks said the project was built on a simple idea: collaboration delivers better outcomes.
“The sustainability challenges facing our industry are too large for any one organisation to solve alone.
“What made this project special was the willingness of post-harvest operators to come together, share knowledge and invest in solutions that will benefit the entire kiwifruit sector.”
The project brought together expertise from across the industry to identify practical ways to reduce emissions from New Zealand’s kiwifruit cool chain.
Franks said the award recognised not only the environmental outcomes achieved but also the willingness of organisations to work collectively for the greater good.
“The project demonstrates what collaboration can achieve.
“By working together, we’ve been able to make faster progress, share valuable insights, and create practical solutions that will support a more sustainable future for the entire kiwifruit industry.”
Franks said a “greener” future wasn’t built by one company.
“It’s built when an industry works together.”
The FMG Sustainable Innovation Award was presented during the New Zealand Horticulture Conference Industry Awards and Gala Dinner in Wellington on July 29.