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New era for wool research

19 Jan '11

2 min read

AgResearch says the Government's announcement yesterday of a $17.25m investment in a wool research consortium means the start of a new era in wool research.

“This is the single biggest investment in wool research in many years. It will be a real shot in the arm for the scientific research that can help support the wool industry,” says AgResearch Business Manager Margot Buick. “Many opportunities for wool research in recent years have not been followed up because of lack of funding. The new Government and industry funding into the consortium means important opportunities for wool use can now be developed and commercialised.”

“AgResearch can ably support consortium initiatives as we have the largest group of scientists devoted to wool research in New Zealand. More than 20 scientists are devoted to wool research at our Lincoln campus. We have the experience, the capability and the track record to help deliver the outcomes which the Government, the consortium and the wool industry wants.”

“Our specific expertise is in areas that the consortium research strategy is focused on, such as:

* Addressing historical obstacles to wool's use and performance. We have strong capabilities in producing woollen fabrics which perform as well, if not better, than synthetics in many respects, and wool carpet that is stain, fade and insect resistant.
* Finding new added-value uses that exploit wool's positive intrinsic characteristics.

This is backed up by the required processing facilities, tools and machinery to support the wool processing industries.

"AgResearch will work alongside New Zealand universities as key research providers for the Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand Inc (WRInc), and with other New Zealand industry stakeholders."

AgResearch