Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report
ENABLING SMARTER FARMING FOR A BETTER NEW ZEALAND
This supplemental information document acts as
a companion to 2021’s Integrated Report and full
financial accounts found in the Annual Report which
are both online.
It contains standard terms, extra background and
some details for reference value.
Stakeholder engagement 1
Materiality 3
Governance 4
Board 6
Leadership Team 8
Community support 10
Glossary 11
Sustainable development goals 18
Carbon Footprint diagram 22
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report
1 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Listening to stakeholders over several years has led to a better understanding of how
they like to engage with us and what matters to them. This is changing quickly after
Covid-19 and more engagement will be vital in a volatile world.
CUSTOMERS & OUR PEOPLE SUPPLY & RESEARCH COMMUNITIES REGULATORS
SHAREHOLDERS PARTNERS
GOAL
To put the customer Enabled people, To develop long-term To lead in the field of sustainability: clearly
at the centre of doing their best work relationships based on positioned as a key player in solutions to
everything we do together integrity and trust environmental concerns and consistently
extending our social licence to operate
HOW WE ENGAGE
■ In person with ■ Regular direct ■ Direct multi-level ■ Formal site-specific ■ Direct engagement
tailored advice from engagement with relationships with engagement with with central and
our field-based and by managers. upstream and surrounding local government at
team. ■ Continuous downstream suppliers. communities. multiple levels from
■ Accessible, employee listening ■ Regular visits with ■ Open days. Chief Executive to
personalised remote and engagement and by our suppliers, policy and
■ ‘Lend a Hand’ day
advice from surveys. taking advantage of compliance teams.
one day a year for
customer service ■ Staff and team technology where we all staff members to
■ Participation in
teams. events. can. volunteer in their Council-led
Annual customer Collaboration on communities. stakeholder groups
Social events and
■ ■
■
satisfaction surveys. sustainability with sharing knowledge
social clubs. ■ Social media
suppliers. and influencing
■ Field days, shows Induction, training channels.
policy direction as it
■
and events and specialist
■ Supplier evaluation Community based relates to farming
■
showcasing new workshops. and feedback surveys. surveys to measure and our own
products and Collaboration with our environmental
Integrated report operations.
■
■
services. leaders at agri-science performance
and other ■ Submissions on
■ Annual General roadshows. institutions. against regulations
new policy and
Meeting and Work on and support a (as required by
Enablers’ Group guidance.
■
■
shareholder get wide range of research consents).
(regular meetings of
togethers. projects to enable Local community
direct reports to the
■
Leadership Team). smarter farming. groups and schools
■
■ Active membership of where possible such
Leadership Team live
industry bodies. as supporting
virtual Q&A sessions.
fundraising and
■ Yammer (internal programmes.
social media).
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report
2
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT — Continued
CUSTOMERS & OUR PEOPLE SUPPLY & RESEARCH COMMUNITIES REGULATORS
SHAREHOLDERS PARTNERS
NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS
■ Consistent, timely ■ Meaningful work. ■ Robust and reliable ■ Health, safety and ■ Effective
delivery of quality ■ Opportunities for supply chain. environmentally management of
products, services growth. ■ Long-term trusted conscious legislative
and experiences. relationships with operations. requirements, in
■ Positive leadership.
■ Easy access to mutual benefit. ■ Social development particular health and
■ Safe and sustainable safety,
customised, Loyal, committed - employment,
environment.
■
up-to-date and investment, environmental and
customer.
informed farm
■ Inclusive culture. development and labour requirements.
■ Values alignment.
solutions and learning ■ Farm compliance for
services.
■ Foundation of research opportunities. nutrient traceability,
engagements is robust nitrogen use and
■ Innovative tools, ■ Respond to incidents
science. consent compliance.
solutions and and complaints
products for
■ Collaborative industry quickly and ■ Positive and
financially and solutions responsibly. proactive
environmentally ■ Positive transparent relationship.
sustainable farming. relationship. ■ Contribute to
■ Trusted, long-term ■ Transparency in relevant calls for
relationships. reporting. submissions.
■ Respect for cultural
■ Publicly reported
views carbon footprint.
RESPONSE
We offer a wide We choose the right We build long-term We appreciate our We ensure our
breadth of service and people, keep them safe relationships based on licence to operate and operations are
integration to farmers and support them to integrity and mutual trust. continually seek ways compliant, work
across all aspects of be their best. This ensures that to better care for and towards best practice,
the farming operation. Ravensdown is provided have a positive impact contribute to new
with superior products on the communities legislation and ensure
and services as well as and environment in compliant practices
ongoing development of which we operate, for all our
exclusive and innovative while making a positive stakeholders.
solutions for the benefit contribution to New
of New Zealand farmers. Zealand development.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report
3 MATERIALITY
Listening to feedback
By remaining approachable and through constant engagement,
we identify what matters to stakeholders.
Engaging on water implications for farmers. Staff receive quarterly
Water quality remains of interest to a wide updates on our sustainability performance and
variety of stakeholders and we continue a our current projects and have full access to a
massive amount of consultation around Sustainability Portal for submitting ideas,
emerging regulatory frameworks. accessing resources and asking questions.
Ravensdown staff engage extensively with
Engaging on Western Sahara
regional councils catchment groups and iwi
Phosphate rock is sourced from Western
throughout New Zealand. We frequently make
Sahara via our supply partner OCP whose
submissions on behalf of shareholders – ensuring
sustainability performance is world-leading. The
their interests are represented and that
risk to New Zealand of disruption to supplies from
impending rule changes are workable and based
OCP are significant as Morocco controls 70% of
on the latest scientific evidence. We also seek to
all the world’s commercially available phosphate
have operative plans that can be reasonably
reserves. As the agsector has exposure to this
implemented by farmers. Engagement takes
risk, the industry communicates with sector
place across multiple levels – including council
stakeholders so that a co-ordinated approach
chief executive, sector director, policy, consents
is agreed.
and compliance personnel.
Engagement with OCP is extensive and
Our shareholders benefit from our staff having
includes due diligence organised through the
a sound understanding of the regulations and
Fertiliser Association of New Zealand as this is
being able to translate them into plain language
an industry issue. We remain confident that
for on-farm actions. Councils also benefitted
OCP is conducting itself in line with the UN
from our field-based teams’ ability to help them
expectations of trading with territories where
implement their regulations.
sovereignty is undecided.
Engaging on climate Briefings about the importance of and
As the most serious long-term issue all businesses progress on the topic are sent to a variety of
face, climate change is of interest to many of our political representatives and policymakers.
key stakeholder groups. We support New Media are updated via briefings and interviews
Zealand’s ambition to reduce emissions in line and information about shipments is transparently
with the Paris Agreement with cross-party available on our website. In any protest scenario,
agreement on enduring greenhouse gas targets. open communication channels are maintained
We collaborate with other sector leaders on with the relevant activists and our differences
how to achieve these. of opinion are acknowledged.
We meet our obligations under the Climate We continue to receive fantastic support
Leaders Coalition to measure and publicly report from these stakeholders leading up to and
our GHG, we work with our suppliers to reduce during the vessel discharge process.
their emissions as well. Shareholders are informed although minimal
Ravensdown invests in training and interest is shown in the topic.
certification of its advisors on climate change
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report
4 GOVERNANCE
Creation and
preservation of value
Ravensdown’s governance structure is set up to promote accountability and to
support its ability to create value in the short, medium and long term. Ravensdown’s
governance provides insight on strategy implementation and direction, while supporting
ethical, lawful, sustainable and responsible behaviour throughout the business.
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics Fraud Policy
The Board of Directors has developed a Ravensdown has a philosophy of “zero tolerance”
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics to give towards fraud, both inside and outside the
effect to Ravensdown’s core values and to guide company. We value the integrity of our staff and
all employees and directors in our relationships recognise that they have a key role to play in the
with our stakeholders. prevention, detection and reporting of fraud. We
therefore ask them to be vigilant at all times and
Company Values to report any concerns they may have at the
The code requires that our decisions and personal earliest opportunity. We are committed to
behaviour will at all times be consistent with creating and maintaining an honest, open and
Ravensdown’s core values of: well-intentioned working environment where
■ Successful co-operative – we put the customer people are confident to raise their concerns
at the centre of everything we do. without fear of reprisal on a confidential basis.
■ Empowered people – we choose the best All reported cases of fraud will be investigated.
people, keep them safe, and enable them
to do their best. Conflict of interest/ Related party
■ Enduring relationships – we develop long-term transactions
relationships based on integrity and trust. Like most co-operative companies, Ravensdown
■ Environmental leadership – we strive to lead has frequent transactions with its farming
in the field of sustainability. directors in the ordinary course of business. All
■ Driving Innovation – we drive the business transactions are conducted on commercial terms.
forward by finding better solutions. A Conflict of Interest Policy ensures that any real
These values mean that we will: or perceived conflicts related to staff members
■ Act honestly and fairly with due skill, care are managed at arm’s length.
and diligence in the interests of all of our
stakeholders. Protected Disclosures Policy
■ Demonstrate respect for key moral principles Ravensdown is committed to providing a
including diversity, individual rights, equality transparent accountable organisation and staff
and dignity. are encouraged to have the responsibility to
■ Value personal and professional integrity, report any known or suspected wrongdoing
trustworthiness and competence. within the company. Employees are encouraged
to report this to their managers, or directly to the
Chief Executive Officer. A 24/7 independent
anonymous Ethics Hotline is also available where
confidential information can be reported.
Ravensdown is committed to the protection of
genuine whistle-blowers against action taken in
reprisal for the making of protected disclosures.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report
5
GOVERNANCE — Continued
Diversity and Inclusion Policy Integrated Reporting
Ravensdown values and understands the The Board delegated oversight and responsibility
importance of an inclusive workplace with for the Integrated Reporting process to the Audit
diversity of thought, opinion and background. and Risk Committee. Progress is monitored at the
Our diversity commitment is about welcoming Audit and Risk Committee meetings. An
and respecting these differences and treating Integrated Thinking Team has been established to
individuals equally, embedding this as part of our promote and embed integrated thinking in the
organisational culture. We aim to promote and business. The team is chaired by the Chief
sustain a sense of belonging; valuing and Financial Officer. Limited external assurance is
practising respect for the talents, beliefs, obtained for the Ravensdown Greenhouse Gas
backgrounds and ways of living of all employees, Inventory. The rest of the non-financial
candidates, customers and suppliers. We are performance measures are internally assured.
committed to ensuring all employees have access
to equal opportunities at all stages of the
employee experience.
Risk Identification and Management
The company has a comprehensive risk
management framework to identify, assess and
monitor new and existing risks. Annual risk
updates are performed, and risk improvement
plans created and acted on. The Chief Executive
Officer and the leadership team are required to
report to the Board and Audit & Risk Committee
on high risks affecting the business and to
develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
Additionally, management is responsible for
ensuring an appropriate insurance programme is
in place and reviewed annually.
We put the
customer at the
centre of everything
we do.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report6 BOARD
Deep understanding
and knowledge
As the board, we focus on good governance and oversight – setting the strategic course
so the leadership team is clear on direction.
From left to right.
Back row Front row
Peter Moynihan Jacqueline Rowarth
Jason Dale Nicola Hyslop
John Henderson — Chair Jane Montgomery
David Biland
Bruce Wills
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report7
BOARD — Continued
John Henderson Bruce Wills
LLB B. Ag. Com
Chair Bruce farms in Hawke’s Bay and has been on the
John runs a 22,000 stock unit sheep and Board since 2015. Bruce holds a wide range of
beef breeding and finishing operation, has been governance positions, particularly in the science
on the Board since 2004 and has been Chair since and environmental areas. He previously spent six
February 2014. As well as running a legal practice years on the Federated Farmers Board and was
in Marton, John spent many years as a director of National President from 2011 to 2014.
RACE Incorporated and of a number of farming
and agricultural companies in NZ and overseas.
Dr. Jacqueline Rowarth
PhD, B.Ag.Sc, (Hons), IoD Company Director’s Certificate
David Biland Jacqueline is part owner of a high-producing dairy
(Appointed) B.Ag.Sc, Dip Hort Sci, farm in Waikato with associated deer and maize
IoD Company Director’s Certificate blocks. She has been on the board since 2019 and
Deputy Chair is also currently a director of DairyNZ. She was
David has been on the board since 2019. formerly Chief Scientist at the Environmental
He has held several international management Protection Authority.
and governance roles, including with
New Zealand company Argenta and animal
health multinational Merial. Nicola Hyslop
B.Ag.Sc (Hons), IoD Company Director’s Certificate
Nicola farms a sheep, beef and arable operation
Jason Dale outside of Timaru and has been on the board
(Appointed) B. Com FCA since 2019. She has been a registered farm
Jason is CFO of NZ Steel and a Fellow of management consultant for 20 years and has
Chartered Accountants Australia and New enjoyed governance roles with Opuha Water,
Zealand and has been on the Board since 2014. Irrigation New Zealand and Beef & Lamb New
He is currently Chairman of Crest Commercial Zealand.
Cleaning Limited and former Chair of the Audit
Committees for Taranaki Investments
Management Limited and LIC. He is the former Jane Montgomery
CFO of large listed and unlisted companies such LLB (Hons), CMInstD
as EROAD, Auckland Airport, PGG Wrightson Jane owns a farm in North Canterbury and has
and Fonterra Ingredients. been on the board since 2020. She is an
intellectual property lawyer, previously an
associate director with AgResearch and a former
Peter Moynihan chair of the audit and risk committee for the JR
B. Ag. Sc McKenzie Trust.
Peter owns a 190ha dairy farm located at
Northope, has farming interests in Lochiel and
Lorneville and has been on the Board since 2013.
Peter is an Agribusiness Regional Manager for a
prominent bank and has been through the
Fonterra Governance Development Programme.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report8 LEADERSHIP TEAM
Optimistic about
the future
As the leadership team, we see our role as maintaining a positive culture at Ravensdown
while ensuring the organisation remains agile as it faces multiple opportunities and challenges.
From left to right.
Back row Front row
Mike Manning — GM Innovation and Strategy Bryan Inch — GM Customer Relationships
Mike Whitty — GM Supply Chain Katrina Benedetti Forastieri — GM Culture and People
Garry Diack — Chief Executive Sean Connolly — Chief Financial Officer
Mark McAtamney — Chief Information Officer
Stephen Esposito — GM Operations
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report9
LEADERSHIP TEAM — Continued
Garry Diack Mark McAtamney
MA (Hons) B. Com
CEO Chief Information Officer
Garry joined Ravensdown in 2021 and has Mark started with Ravensdown in 2001 and
over 30 years’ experience in improving has been CIO since 2005.
corporate performance, effective governance
and driving growth. He was formerly CEO of
Tait Communications. Mike Whitty
B. Com. Ag, C.A
General Manager Supply Chain
Stephen Esposito Mike started with Ravensdown in 1997 and has
M. A. Sc. (Civ Eng), P. Eng. held a variety of roles in finance, sales, marketing,
General Manager Operations manufacturing and now the supply chain.
Stephen is a professional engineer and
joined Ravensdown in 2018 after 20 years of
international experience in operations, risk
management and strategy development.
Bryan Inch
B. Ag. Sc
General Manager Customer Relationships
Bryan started with Ravensdown in early 2014
and was previously CEO of Canterbury Building
Society and held senior roles with Rabobank.
Mike Manning
B. Ag. Sc, CP Ag
General Manager Innovation and Strategy
Mike started with Ravensdown in 1981 and has
held a variety of roles in regional management,
marketing, sales, supply and R&D.
Sean Connolly
B. Com, C.A
Chief Financial Officer
Sean started with Ravensdown in 2004
and has been CFO since 2005.
Katrina Benedetti Forastieri
M.Sc (Hons), Dip. Ind. Org. Psyc, Regd. Psyc
General Manager Culture and People
Katrina joined Ravensdown in 2018 with
over 20 years’ experience in Human Resources
and Organisation Development.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report10 COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Part of the
rural landscape
Through our sponsorship programme, Hundreds of local causes are supported through
Ravensdown makes a significant contribution funding or volunteering. As well as collaborating
to capacity building and therefore improving with Lincoln and Massey universities, primary
resilience and sustainability in the farming sponsorship partners include
community. ■ New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA)
Over $20,000 is set aside annually to ■ New Zealand Young Farmers
support young people studying towards careers ■ Agri-Women’s Development Trust (AWDT)
in agriculture.
■ Primary Industry Summit (PINZ)
■ New Zealand Groundspreaders’ Association
■ Pasture Summit
■ South Island Dairy Event
■ Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue
■ House of Science, science in
schools programme
■ Foundation for Arable Research.
Sponsoring
and supporting
community causes
throughout the
country.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report11 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Aerowork and comply with emerging regulations. Testing
Aerowork is a wholly owned subsidiary of through ARL remains important to give science-
Ravensdown, operates a fleet of 12 fixed wing based advice to customers.
aircraft across the country and is headquartered
Cadmium management
in Whanganui. The Cresco topdressing aircraft
Cadmium naturally occurs as a trace impurity in
have the ability to carry up to 2,000kg loads of
phosphate rock. Evidence to date indicates that
fertiliser to hilly terrain. Much of New Zealand’s
cadmium in New Zealand soils poses little concern,
pasture-growing soils tend to be deficient in
but it needs to be managed over the long term.
sulphur and phosphate, so aerial spreading is
Up until the 1990s, the phosphate rock source
both unusual in the world and vital to the country.
(Nauru and Christmas Islands) were much higher
Agronomy Plans in cadmium than in the current rocks used to
Agronomy Plans ensure the customer is getting manufacture superphosphate. As a result, specific
the best advice to make decisions about timing, areas with a long history of phosphate application
location and quantity of nutrients, what kind of including the Waikato, Taranaki and Bay of Plenty
seed to sow and any agrochemicals needed. do need monitoring and management which can
This advice provides an improved outcome for include the supply of a lower cadmium products.
the health of the plant, soil, livestock and Through the Fertiliser Association of
environment on an ongoing basis. New Zealand, a maximum limit was identified
The plans can act as evidence supporting a and has been monitored since 1997. For the past
stronger story about the farm and the produce decade, Ravensdown has been consistently
grown on it. Ordering nutrients directly from lower than this limit of 280mg Cd/kg P by a
the plan gives farmers more control as they can significant margin.
be assured, they are organising the right rate of
Carbon Footprint
the right product for the right place.
Every company has a responsibility to take action
AirScan against climate change. Since Ravensdown first
Airscan® is the service resulting from the Primary reported its carbon footprint, the carbon
Growth Partnership programme “Pioneering to footprinting methodology in 2018 has matured
Precision”. The PGP programme takes aerial resulting in more robust data, ease in collecting
fertiliser application from pioneering to precision and calculating the footprint, accuracy in results
by enabling the detailed nutrient requirements of and more in-depth analysis of performance. We
hill country farms to be identified through remote now calculate and report the following emissions,
■ Scope 1: sources owned by company.
sensing technology which then helps ensure that
■ Scope 2: purchased electricity.
the right amount of fertiliser is applied precisely
■ Scope 3: sources not owned or directly
as needed for optimal pasture and stock growth.
controlled (https://ghgprotocol.org/
ARL Testing corporate-standard).
Ravensdown uses soil tests to understand soil Limited assurance for our GHG emissions
fertility and advise farmers about the best inventory has been provided by EY. Their
combination of nutrients and what amounts statement is available at https://
should be applied to different parts of their farm. integratedreporting.ravensdown.co.nz/
The correct amount and application of nutrients
ensures farmers are able to optimise soil fertility,
balance the demands for feed and ensure they
are operating to reduce possible environmental
impacts. Through performing soil and water tests
farmers seek more data about their nutrient
needs in order to improve their farming practice
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report12
GLOSSARY OF TERMS — Continued
C-Dax Cropmark
C-Dax is a wholly owned subsidiary of In 2011 Ravensdown formed a partnership
Ravensdown and is a manufacturer of spraying, with Rolleston-based Cropmark Seeds to provide
spreading and pasture measurement shareholders with access to high-performing
technologies. The company employs a team of cultivars. The company breeds and supplies
23 and is headquartered in Palmerston North. seeds that deliver improved yield, greater
The technology integrates with HawkEye for an nutritional values and disease resistance, coupled
integrated and insightful view of on-farm actions. with the ability to provide more quality forage
The latest robotic innovation can scan for safety when most needed.
issues and measure pasture response.
Employee engagement
ClearTech Employee engagement is an outcome of
ClearTech® is a dairy effluent treatment employee experience. Engaged employees
system developed to help farmers reduce the have a genuine commitment and passion for the
environmental risks from land application of business goals and ultimately want their efforts
effluent and to safely recycle water to wash to make a positive difference to our stakeholders
the dairy yard. and New Zealand as a whole.
ClearTech® reduces the risk of a dairy farmer
breaching a consent – particularly when wet HawkEye
weather is both filling the pond and preventing Use of mapping technology enables efficient
effluent application. nutrient management with accurate, easy-to-
The latest research focuses on the ClearTech understand records of paddock activity and
lysimeter trials and the benefits of applying easy time-saving ordering. With software
clarified water and/or treated effluent versus developments reducing the time taken, farmers
untreated effluent. The focus is on reduced are freed up to spend more time on the farm.
E. coli in clarified water (for washing the yard and/ Ravensdown’s mapping technology has shifted
or irrigation), reduced potential for E.coli leaching from Smart Maps to HawkEye. HawkEye
into drinking water and/or underground aquifers, improvements during the year have included
plus reduced nitrates and phosphates into fertiliser ordering from the map, feature and
waterways which in turn can support reduced hazard identification and an app so that it is now
algal growth and improve water quality. By mobile friendly. Most importantly, the data is
reusing and recycling water, the effluent storage owned by the farmer and the farmer is in control
capacity is greatly extended. of their information.
Organising ordering and spreading through
Compressive strength one automated tool ensures complete accuracy
Granule compressive strength offers agronomic as no manual intervention is needed. This
and environmental benefits helping ensure the safeguards against any double ups or errors that
right nutrients are applied in the right place. have the potential to result in over-application.
Ravensdown’s goal is to increase the compressive The design and continual improvement of the
strength of our manufactured superphosphate market-leading software is based on feedback
and maintain granular integrity. Increased from users. All of these changes are focused on
compressive strength means the fertiliser improving the customer experience as we
granules break down less during handling and continue to develop technology to enable users
blending. This means less dust and better, more to make informed decisions with accurate,
precise spread during application. timely information.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report13
GLOSSARY OF TERMS — Continued
Quality testing
QUALITY TESTING WHY
Product Size The ideal sized granule will improve coverage and spreading
efficiency and reduce dust. We have set a target particle sizing
band for each product (superphosphate: 1.0mm to 5.6 mm and
urea: 2.0mm to 4.8mm). We achieve this through our
manufacturing process and care in handling.
Fertiliser
Chemical Quality Our products must meet their respective chemical content
requirements to meet Fertmark standards. For example,
superphosphate is measured for phosphorus and sulphate-
sulphur and moisture content.
Cadmium Cadmium mg/kg of phosphorus must be less than 280.
Size Fraction To be agronomically effective Aglime should contain a particle size
fraction of 50% below 0.5mm to be immediately correct soil pH
and 95% below 2.00mm to provide ongoing neutralisation over a
medium timeframe. Fertmark sets and monitors these standards
and all of Ravensdown’s Aglime is Fertmark certified. We achieve
this through screening and high process control standards.
Aglime
Moisture Correct product moisture content supports good physical
handling properties and is monitored and reported on the
Fertmark reporting system.
Neutralising factor The Calcium Carbonate in Aglime determines the level of
active neutralising value. All our Aglime quarries have a
registered neutralising value tested, confirmed and reported
through Fertmark.
IntelliSpread Low risk imports and bulk vessel quality
Ravensdown’s IntelliSpread® precision aerial The “Low Risk” measure is bulk shipments
application system enables a prescription map imported under the Ravensdown Fertiliser
to be loaded into a topdressing aircraft’s GPS. Imports System. This system is approved by
The GPS then communicates with a computer MPI and is a robust system consisting of
which controls the opening and closing of hopper independent audits, rigorous supplier facility,
doors. The doors are automatically operated with vessel and product inspections and sampling and
the added benefit of not distracting the pilot to testing of products. This ensures high quality
enable fertiliser to be applied where it is needed product and that biosecurity risk is mitigated.
and at the rate required. Purchases from a non-preferred supplier
Farmers can trust their fertiliser investment is do not qualify under our low-risk import system.
applied as intended with proof of release records Being a non-preferred supplier does not mean
available. Technology-enabled aircraft allow we have increased the biosecurity risk to
fertiliser plans to be accurately delivered by New Zealand. From time to time, as we assess
electronic instruction. new supply sources, we will import product
from a “supplier under trial”, in which case we
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report14
GLOSSARY OF TERMS — Continued
have yet to audit their offshore facilities. Nitrification inhibitors
Normal MPI border inspections are carried Nitrification inhibitors (NIs) slow the microbial
out on these shipments to ensure there is no conversion of ammonium-N to nitrate-N thereby
risk to New Zealand’s flora and fauna. reducing the risk of loss through leaching and so
increased the nitrogen use efficiency of nitrogen
LUCI-Ag
fertilisers.
LUCI-Ag (Land Utilisation and Capacity Indicator)
is a decision support tool developed exclusively Nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency
for Ravensdown by researchers at Victoria Ravensdown focuses on research and
University of Wellington (VUW). The tool development to provide innovative products and/
investigates current on-farm P & N losses and or services which aim to reduce or mitigate N and
identifies nutrient hotspots on spatially detailed P losses from our shareholders’ farms. As well as
maps. This enables mitigations specific to a farm’s financial impacts for the farmers, losses of N as
management and biophysical environment to be nitrous oxide to the atmosphere impacts on
explored and ranked according to effectiveness, greenhouse gas emissions.
prior to taking action and financial outlay. Agricultural systems can be ‘leaky’ with respect
LUCI-Ag enables farmers to identify and target to nutrient losses. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus
nutrient hotspots on their farm in more spatial (P) are essential plant and animal nutrients which
detail than other nutrient models. In addition, it are added mainly as fertiliser. Direct losses from
links on-farm management and mitigations to fertilisers are small if good management practices
in-stream water quality via an innovative are used by farmers. However, N can be lost by
hydrological model. This means the effects of leaching and atmospheric loss from animal urine
current and future mitigation options can be patches and fertiliser. Most P is attached to fine
explored in terms of estimated in-stream nutrient clays. The particles to which the P is attached can
reductions at a catchment level. be transported across the landscape in surface
runoff.
Net promoter score
As N and P loss affects receiving water quality,
Net Promoter Score® is a measure of customer
new technologies to reduce N and P loss may
loyalty and is an absolute number between
enable our shareholders to continue their ability
–100 and +100 based on how likely you are to
to farm in the face of increasing regulatory
recommend Ravensdown to a friend or colleague.
requirements around nutrient externalities.
Pasture-based
systems mean
losses and N and
P that need to be
minimised.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report15
GLOSSARY OF TERMS — Continued
Nutrients
Without the kind of fertilisers that companies like Ravensdown supply, world
production of food is estimated to be about halved. These fertilisers deliver essential
nutrients to nourish the soil and plants.
19 PLANT NUTRIENTS
FOR IMPROVING AND PROTECTING PLANT HEALTH
Plants use minerals present in the soil and water in order to grow and flourish. Just like with humans, if they don’t get enough of these nutrients it can seriously affect their health.
Ensuring proper plant nutrition by using fertilizers (organic and mineral) to supplement the nutrients already available in the soil is essential for plant health.
Here’s a look at 19 nutrients than can benefit plant health (in addition to improving yields):
NITROGEN
Nitrogen is an essential component of
IODINE
Iodine has been found to be associated
amino acids for building proteins, nucleic with enzymes in plants. Research suggests
acids and chlorophyll which converts the that it is important for biological processes
sun’s energy into sugars. It is vital for such as photosynthesis, energy metabolism
plant metabolism, growth and health. and calcium-signaling. Iodine deficiency
delays flowering and disrupts root,
leaf and fruit development as well
PHOSPHORUS
as plants’ environmental and climatic
stress defenses.
Phosphorus is vital for energy storage
and transfer and membrane integrity
in plants. Particularly important in early
growth stages, it promotes tillering,
root development, early flowering
SODIUM
Sodium is essential in transporting
and ripening. CO2 during photosynthesis for
a limited number of plants.
For other plant species,
COBALT
because it is chemically and
structurally very similar to
potassium, it can also fulfill
Cobalt is an essential component of some many of the roles played by
enzymes and co-enzymes that can affect potassium, including metabolic ones.
the growth and metabolism of plants. It
is also necessary for nitrogen (N) fixation
COPPER
which occurs within the nodules of legumes.
Cobalt can increase seeds’ drought
tolerance and reduce plant stress.
Copper plays a key role in nitrogen and
hormone metabolism and is needed for
many enzyme activities in plants, as well
POTASSIUM
as for chlorophyll and seed production.
Deficiencies can lead to crop failure
and increased susceptibility to diseases
Potassium has major functions in
such as ergot.
enzyme activation, transpiration and
the transport of assimilates (the
IRON
products of photosynthesis). It
helps plants to retain water during
droughts, provides strength to plant
cell walls and decreases susceptibility Iron is another essential component for
to diseases and insects. creating chlorophyll and also serves
SULPHUR
as a catalyst for cell division which is
central to plant growth. Many plants
also use iron for their enzyme functions.
CALCIUM
Sulphur is integral to all living plant A lack of iron results in yellowing leaves
cells and helps to produce amino acids and poor fruit quality and quantity.
involved in chlorophyll production,
Calcium is needed for biomembrane proteins and vitamins. It contributes
maintenance. It helps in cell wall
MANGANESE
to plant growth and seed formation,
stabilization as an enzyme activator, in improves winter hardiness and helps
osmoregulation and in the cation-anion plants resist diseases.
balance and thus also plays important Manganese plays a key role in a variety
roles in resistance to diseases and of plant functions including photosynthesis,
abiotic stresses such as drought, enzyme activation, respiration and
heat and cold. nitrogen assimilation. Deficiencies can
cause weaker structural resistance against
pathogens and less tolerance to drought
and heat stress.
MAGNESIUM
SILICON
Magnesium is central to the production
of chlorophyll which is needed for
photosynthesis and healthy green leaf
tissue. It reduces crop stress caused Silicon increases plant vigor and
by exposure to the sun and high improves tolerance to abiotic stresses
temperatures, while a deficit can often such as drought, salinity or heavy metals.
cause stunted growth. It enhances plant cell walls’ strength and
structure, increasing resistance to plant
diseases and insect pests. Good silicon
nutrition stimulates photosynthesis and
BORON
improves grain production.
Boron is required for cell wall synthesis
MOLYBDENUM
and cell expansion. Boron deficiency
disrupts reproductive growth, shoot
SELENIUM
and root growth and pollen viability
and hence influences seed set and Molybdenum is used by plants to
yield. A lack of boron can result in reduce nitrates into usable forms
deformed leaves and poor quality Because selenium is chemically and for biological nitrogen fixation
of harvested product. similar to sulphur, it is taken up inside by certain species. Insufficient
plants via sulphur transporters molybdenum means some plants
inside the roots. Studies show that can’t fix nitrogen from the air to
selenium improves plant growth make proteins and can hinder
CHLORINE
Chlorine improves plant productivity,
NICKEL
Nickel is important in plant seed
ZINC
Zinc participates in chlorophyll
and increases tolerance to
biotic and abiotic stresses.
normal plant growth.
plays a role in photosynthesis and is germination, photosynthesis, enzyme formation, is needed to activate many
needed for osmosis and ionic balance. functions and nitrogen metabolism. enzymes in plants and is needed for
It can help to minimize water loss during A deficiency affects plant growth, plant immune responses. As a result,
stressful dry periods and enhance antioxidant systems and response it is important for increasing plant
disease resistance. to stress. resistance to diseases and pests.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report16
GLOSSARY OF TERMS — Continued
Nutrient Management Certification Proof of Placement
The certification is part of an industry wide The use of GPS-enabled technology enables
programme targeted at those who provide us to place nutrients exactly where they are
nutrient management advice to ensure farmers needed. This relies on the correct calibration
receive advice of the highest standard. Relevant of the spreader which is assured when using
qualifications and experience are essential. a Spreadmark certified spreader. For aerial
Once certified, advisers need to undertake application this means use of aircraft equipped
continuing professional development each year with variable rate application technology such
including an exam. as IntelliSpread. Accurate maps enable farmers
to track nutrient application and to increase the
total traceability of nutrient applied.
Spreading and quality standards
The Fertmark programme was set up in 1992
to give New Zealand farmers confidence in the
chemical quality of fertiliser, lime and associated
claims. The scheme is managed and annually
Potential Mineralisable reviewed by the farmer-controlled Fertiliser
Nitrogen (PMN) test Quality Council. The registered products are
independently audited every six months, with
Ravensdown is a founder and co-funder of
audit samples compared with Ravensdown’s
the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures project
own internal quality control results.
to develop a faster and more accurate test for
Ravensdown groundspreading joint ventures are
nitrogen available to the plant. The new
all registered with Spreadmark which is a
(Potential Mineralisable Nitrogen) test method
placement assurance programme.
will deliver faster insights to arable and
horticultural customers so as to avoid potential Superphosphate
over-application of N and optimise nitrogen
Fossilised fishbones and teeth (phosphate
provision to achieve yield targets.
rock) can be treated with sulphuric acid so that
Work is continuing with other sector partners
it becomes soluble and more readily available
which aims to test and validate these predictions
to plants. The output of this process is
under a wide range of soils, crops and climatic
superphosphate which has been used in
conditions. Other project and co-founders
New Zealand since the late 1800s. The efficacy
include: MPI, FAR, HortNZ’s Vegetable Research
of the granules has been researched in the
& Innovation Board, Environment Canterbury,
longest running farm trial in New Zealand at
Waikato and Hawke’s Bay regional councils,
Winchmore farms. Granules need to be
ARL, Hill Laboratories and Eurofins.
carefully manufactured so they can be more
Primary Growth Partnership precisely applied.
The PGP programme is a collaboration between
Ministry for Primary Industries and Ravensdown
as investment partners. The two main research
contractors are Massey University and
AgResearch. The government has replaced the
PGP model and framework with the Sustainable
Food and Fibre Futures fund.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report17
GLOSSARY OF TERMS — Continued
Supply contracts XC-10
Ravensdown has many long-term relationships An XC-10 control unit sits in the cab of a
based on integrity and trust to ensure we get groundspreading truck or cockpit of an
the best value for our spend. “Spend under Aerowork topdressing aircraft and automates
management” is the percentage of our total direct the application of fertiliser. A wirelessly
spend with preferred suppliers that are actively uploaded map directs the rate and location of
managed. This indicator shows how: application then connects to mapping systems
■ We capture value through collaboration with such as HawkEye for proof of placement and to
the best suppliers. demonstrate compliance.
■ Product quality is uppermost in commercial
discussions.
■ Risks are managed.
■ Positive commercial outcomes are achieved.
■ We ensure continuity of supply in challenging
times.
Urease inhibitors
Urease inhibitors are applied as coatings on
a urea granule and block the activity of the
enzyme urease which is naturally found in soil.
This enzyme will break urea into ammonium
and nitrogen can be volatilised or lost to the
atmosphere in the form of ammonia and
ultimately nitrous oxide which is a potent
greenhouse gas. The models of the Climate
Change Commission’s guidance to government
(May 2021) were based on the assumption that
100% of all urea is coated in UIs by 2030.
Long-term supply
contracts reduce risk
of disruption.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report18 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are a blueprint for a more
sustainable world. Each year, Ravensdown measures and reflects on its contribution
to the specific targets under the eight goals below where we feel we can have
the most impact.
Zero Hunger
Agricultural area under productive and sustainable agriculture
■ With competing pressure for land hectares of farmland have fertiliser
use such as for housing, optimising applied using proof of placement
productivity per hectare is technology to ensure that it ends up
paramount. Without fertiliser where it should.
New Zealand would be able to ■ Despite Covid-19 restrictions, there
support less than half, and possibly has been significant investment
as low as 25%, of the food produced. through our sponsorship programme
■ Soil testing prior to fertiliser to build capacity and resilience in the
application increased by 36% as farming community e.g. South Island
customers measure nitrogen Dairy Event, Lincoln University Focus
efficiency more closely, and 6% more Farm Day, Young Farmer Competition,
agronomy plans were delivered. Groundspreading, Arable Research
■ 4,759 customers are using the and Primary Industries annual
HawkEye mapping system for conferences, Horticultural Field Days
ordering and GPS-logging nutrient and Waipaoa Station Farm
application. In 2020, 820,000 Cadet Training Trust.
Clean Water
Waterbodies with good ambient water quality
■ Investment in the New Plymouth ■ The ground-breaking ClearTech water
stormwater discharge system treatment system has now been
resulted in improved water quality implemented in six commercial dairy
and consistent compliance with farm applications and four livestock
resource consent conditions. truck washing applications. Over a
■ The intake system at Severn St single year, these systems saved
(Napier) store was upgraded to 12,229,803L of fresh water,
improve safety and efficiency as equivalent to the daily use of 53,876
well as environmental outcomes. New Zealanders.
■ Dunedin yard was surfaced to ■ Submissions were made to
reduce nutrients in stormwater. government to guide and enhance
■ Improvements in stormwater the direction Aotearoa takes to
management at Gisborne Store improve freshwater quality.
received positive regional council ■ Ravensdown signed the Christchurch
feedback. Waterways Partnership along with
42 other interested parties.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report19
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS — Continued
■ The new multi-million dollar ■ ‘Pioneering to Precision’ programme to
stormwater solution was completed develop computer-controlled aircraft
at the Christchurch site. doors which adjust twice as fast for
■ 16,588 hours of dedicated precision application and avoidance of
environmental advice was provided environmentally sensitive areas.
to farmers by Ravensdown’s ■ A recognised qualification was
environmental consultancy. developed in conjunction with Massey
■ 46 new Farm Environmental Plans University to address the need for
covering 25,910 ha were completed farm professionals to understand the
to prepare farmers for increased emerging requirements of increased
formal environmental obligations. farm environmental planning.
■ Research collaboration began into ■ 38 staff were upskilled on carbon
quicker, more accurate testing of soil emissions management and Farm
nitrogen available to the plant to Environmental Planning so that all
improve nitrogen application customer-facing staff deliver
precision and reduce risk of losses to consistent, high level advice. This
waterways. year, industry figures show the supply
of manufactured nitrogen fertiliser
decreased by 8%.
Decent Work & Economic Growth
Fair, diverse and safe employment & development opportunities
■ Complete replacement of our hazard ■ Sponsored ten participants in
and incident management platform the Emerging Leaders Programme
with a bespoke tool to simplify (NZ Institute of Management
reporting, improve accessibility & Leadership) and Next Level
and improve responsiveness. Leadership
■ Training on coping with stress and (Agri Women’s Development Trust).
uncertainty in challenging times ■ Financial wellbeing webinars were
provided to 105 Ravensdown staff. attended by 109 Ravensdown staff
■ Four young people completed our and their whānau.
graduate development programme ■ A new Flexible Working Policy
and entered the workforce. was developed and implemented.
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Manufacturing efficiency, CO2 intensity, research & development
■ Reduced coal use by 22% through ■ More than doubled the movement
enhanced mine planning, new of product via coastal shipping, taking
technology such as moisture meters trucks off the road and reducing
and progressed along our pathway diesel emissions.
to phase out coal and introduce ■ Geraldine primary crusher was
alternative fuels in operational replaced to meet increased demand
applications with trials and technical at lower cost and with reduced fuel
investigations into renewable fuels. use and emissions.
■ Committed to replacing our large ■ Undertook Supreme Quarry electrical
fleet of diesel-powered forklifts with upgrade leading to increased
electric and sought a supplier efficiency and automation.
partnership to assist with this.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report20
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS — Continued
■ Dunedin Dynamic Separator Mill ■ Continued investment and
project improved processing capability development of coated nitrogen
and reduced operational costs. products to ultimately reduce
■ Began a research collaboration greenhouse gas volatilisation.
investigating plant availability of ■ Developed and trialled a sustainability
nitrogen and will complete the Primary assessment tool for capital
Growth Partnership to transform aerial investments.
spreading with computer-aided
accuracy (see also SDG 6).
Sustainable Communities
Preserving natural & cultural heritage, minimising dust & waste
■ Our biosecurity programme group or cause of their choice.
(Ravensdown Fertiliser Imports This year 442 hours of staff time
System) for importing bulk vessel was spent Lending a Hand.
fertiliser proved its worth as our ■ The despatch area at McNab
assessments highlighted risks which Store was fully enclosed to reduce
required cargo to be rejected at the fugitive dust and improve processing
origin port. capability.
■ Cultural Competency workshops ■ Investment in dust control continued
were held to upskill senior leaders in with new dust curtains at Seadown
our Operations division to better and New Plymouth stores.
understand manawhena. ■ Gisborne Store was re-clad as part
■ Each manufacturing site undertook a of the ten-year asbestos removal
stakeholder identification and programme being progressively
engagement planning exercise and implemented across the building
established or enhanced their stock to improve safety. To date we
community liaison. have spent $14.2 million out of a
■ Staff are granted one day a year to planned $24m.
assist a community or environmental
Responsible Consumption
Sustainable procurement and responsible waste disposal
■ The new Supplier Sustainability ■ Continued support of AgRecovery
Survey was completed by 37 key events for recovering plastic from
suppliers with an average score of farms for recycling, recovering an
80% and we began evaluating additional 6,200kg of bulk
suppliers on sustainability fertiliser bags.
performance and recognising and ■ Contributed to the industry advisory
supporting their improvements. group working with the Ministry for
■ Through our own takeback scheme the Environment on a comprehensive
we recovered 114.6 tonnes of used regulated product stewardship
packaging for recycling. We also scheme to manage farm plastic
continue to look for reduction and responsibly.
reuse options, recognising that
recycling alone does not achieve
circular economy.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report21
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS — Continued
Climate Action
Climate change mitigation, adaptation and capacity building
■ Implemented carbon reduction ■ Submitted to the Climate Change
roadmaps for the most carbon Commission to support and enhance
intensive parts of the business. the direction New Zealand takes in
■ Workshops assessed our level of response to climate change.
physical and transitional climate ■ Collaborated with leading businesses
risk and to better understand on our collective response to climate
contributing factors and mitigation change and sustainability through
measures. membership of the Sustainable
■ Training on climate change reached Business Council, Climate Leaders
204 staff and our staff-wide carbon Coalition, Aotearoa Circle and the
footprint webinar was attended International Fertiliser Association
by 150. Sustainability Working Group.
Life on Land
Preserving biodiversity
■ Using our newest technology for ■ Financial and in-kind support was
aerial fertiliser application, 47,655 provided to community groups
hectares of sensitive areas were able looking to achieve habitat restoration
to be excluded. and other biodiversity outcomes.
■ All superphosphate products ■ 7,317 hours of training undertaken by
leaving the factory were below the on farm teams, largely on
industry-set limit of 280mg cadmium environmental planning and best
per kg to prevent increased heavy practice.
metals in soil.
Information supplemental to 2021 Integrated Report22 FOOTPRINT DIAGRAM
Ravensdown 2020 Greenhouse Gas Inventory
All totals represented as tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent
Upstream Core Downstream
Aerial
Spreading
4,269
Air travel
239
Electricity
Manufacturing Lime
Coastal
process drying
1,528
1,374
shipping 941 2,605
448 Waste
Mobile plant
238
3,112 Distribution
Shipping 26,787
GHG loss
from fertiliser
80,346
Vehicle 1,165,593
1,163,593
fleet
1,312
1,412
Delivery
from port
2,629ravensdown.co.nz Enabling smarter farming for a better New Zealand — Ka pūkekotia a Rongomātāne, ka poho kererū a Aotearoa Supplementary information available on integratedreporting.ravensdown.co.nz
You can also read
