This blogpost was authored by Dr Anthony Halog, who is based in the School of the Environment at the University of Queensland, Australia. Dr Halog draws on complex bodies of knowledge to address sustainability challenges. He visited the University of Bristol as a Next Generation Visiting Researcher in Winter 2023/24 to collaborate with academics in the Cabot Institute for the Environment.
During my six-week residency at the University of Bristol, I had the unique opportunity to collaborate with some of the most forward-thinking minds tackling the global sustainability challenges of our time. Through the Bristol Next Generation Visiting Researcher Programme, I engaged in transformative research, working across disciplines to explore solutions to net-zero emissions, circular agriculture, and bioeconomy. The depth of collaboration and exchange I experienced was invaluable in pushing the boundaries of sustainable development and driving innovation.
One of the highlights of my visit was my collaboration with Dr. Maria Valero, a Lecturer in Intelligent Automation and Control at the School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering. Together, we worked on a groundbreaking research project focused on digital twinning—an advanced technology that allows real-time simulation and optimization of food supply chains. This project is crucial in improving the efficiency, sustainability, and resilience of food systems. Our manuscript, “Sustainability-Driven Food Supply Chain Design and Optimisation through Digital Twinning,” has been accepted for publication in Procedia CIRP CMS 2024 on May 2, 2024. By leveraging digital twins, this research aims to minimise food waste, optimise resource use, and significantly reduce environmental impacts—key steps in fostering a more sustainable and resilient future for global food production.
The core of my time at Bristol was anchored in collaboration with Dr. Taro Takahashi, Professor Guy Howard, and the Cabot Institute for the Environment. Together, we explored how life cycle assessment (LCA) and systems thinking can provide insights into the complex transitions needed to achieve a circular bioeconomy. This work involved investigating how cutting-edge digital technologies—such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital twins—can transform agricultural systems to be more efficient, environmentally friendly, and economically resilient. These tools hold immense potential to address the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and resource scarcity, particularly in agriculture and food production.
Building on these collaborations, I proposed three innovative research concepts, each poised to make a significant contribution to sustainable agriculture:
- Smart Livestock Farming Ecosystem with Integrated Carbon Monitoring
This project proposes the use of sensor technology and data analytics to monitor and reduce carbon emissions in livestock farming. By providing real-time data, this approach strikes a balance between environmental sustainability and animal health and productivity.
- Circular Livestock Supply Chain Model
This model envisions a closed-loop system for livestock farming that minimises waste, optimises resource use, and enhances food security. By designing more circular supply chains, this initiative supports both economic viability and environmental responsibility.
- Knowledge Co-Production for Sustainable Livestock Systems
This platform brings together researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to co-create sustainable farming practices. It emphasises the integration of environmental, economic, and social considerations to ensure a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture.
The above proposed project ideas illustrate the transformative potential of technology in reshaping agriculture and food systems, enabling a transition to a circular economy. The integration of digital tools within these systems not only offers environmental benefits—such as reduced emissions and waste—but also enhances operational efficiency and economic resilience, critical for the agricultural sector’s long-term sustainability.
My experience at the University of Bristol has underscored the immense value of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex global challenges. The ideas and partnerships that have emerged during my visit form the foundation for future collaborative research between the University of Bristol and the University of Queensland. Together, we will continue to drive solutions that align with global sustainability objectives, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), and support key international efforts like COP28.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at Bristol was delivering a public seminar, “Life Cycle and Systems Thinking Methods for Transitioning to a Decarbonized, Circular (Bio) Economy.” Despite the constraints of the holiday season, the seminar was well-attended and sparked rich discussions on how these methods can be applied to create a more sustainable, low-carbon world. It was heartening to see the level of engagement and enthusiasm for developing practical, scalable solutions to our most pressing sustainability challenges.
This research visit has been an unforgettable experience, made possible by the outstanding support of the International Research Development (IRD) team and the warm welcome extended by the University of Bristol community. Although the Christmas break presented some scheduling challenges, the foundations laid during my stay have already resulted in exciting new collaborations and research outcomes. Despite the challenges posed by time zone differences between Australia and the UK, we plan to continue our work through virtual meetings, as well as through co-authored publications and future project proposals.
This is just the beginning of what I anticipate will be a long-lasting and impactful partnership. The convergence of circular bioeconomy principles and digital innovation holds the key to solving some of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time. By continuing to build on this collaboration, we aim to drive meaningful research and innovation that will benefit academia, industry, policymakers, and the broader global community striving for a sustainable future.