Newly created role helps New Zealand apple and pear industry meet global expectations
Hannah Riley has joined peak industry body New Zealand Apples and Pears (NZAPI) in the newly created role of global sustainability advisor.
Riley’s focus will be on understanding sustainability in the context of apple and pear production, ensuring the industry is able to meet global expectations.
“The key areas of work will be to understand trends in the global supply chain, identify areas of sustainability needed for exporters to manage customer expectations and manage a workplan to meet industry needs,” according to a release from NZAPI.
Riley holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce, as well as a Masters of Climate Change Science and Policy. She has led climate change and sustainability projects as a consultant with Business Economic Research (BERL) and is a board member of Grow Space, a charity working to create inclusive and regenerative urban food systems in Auckland.
“I am passionate about climate action and food sustainability, and excited to have the opportunity to support the apple and pear industry navigate sustainability,” said Riley.
Terry Meikle, chief executive of NZAPI, said Riley’s appointment reflected the importance the New Zealand apple and pear industry is placing on sustainability.
“Consumers globally are increasingly seeking evidence of how their food is produced and wanting greater proof of sustainability claims,” Meikle said. “Meanwhile, legislation, regulation and private standards are all trying to keep pace with what sustainability means in practice.
“The appointment of Hannah means NZAPI will have its finger on the pulse of these global sustainability trends, while supporting New Zealand research and development projects that help prove the sustainability of New Zealand’s apple and pear crop. Together this will help provide the membership with clear signals and advice of the future direction of travel in this fast-moving space.”
