Our Research
Our research programme is aligned with the strategy to enhance export market access solutions. The programme is prioritised and underpinned by robust analysis, sound science and engagement with industry, research providers and government agencies.
Our current research priorities include phosphine, EDN, debarking and methyl bromide reduction and recapture.
Current Projects
Debarking Quality Assurance Programme
This project is focused on ensuring market access solutions for New Zealand’s log exports. To that end, in 2023 Phytos initiated an independent audit of debarking assets in New Zealand in support of MPI’s overall response to pest interception data originating from work carried out on a range of log consignments, phytosanitary treatment options and arrival ports in China. One of the outcomes of that work was a sector commitment to develop a robust ISO 9001 quality assurance programme across all debarking assets in New Zealand.
Systems Approach (India)
The project identifies, sources and coordinates technical and risk mitigation information such as the current forest pest surveillance program, the production site registration process, post-harvest pest management procedures, inspection procedures, post harvest treatment options and MPI phytosanitary certification procedures.
Project Pipeline
Completed Projects
Debarking Audit (2022-2025)
This project is a quantitative independent audit of each debarkers output against the agreed standard, including a representative and statistically significant sample of debarked logs for export.
PFR fumigation trial (India market access) (2023-2025)
Phytos is focused on ensuring market access solutions for New Zealand’s log exports. The purpose of this project is to provide technical treatment efficacy information (specifically in relation to 3 wood pests of importance) to support attempts to recommence New Zealand’s log trade with India.
EDN Approval (2017-2022)
Phytos set up a Strategic Science Advisory Forum (SSAF) which commissioned a ‘comprehensive review of fumigant and disinfestation strategies, methods and techniques pertinent to potential use as quarantine treatments for NZ export logs’ (Armstrong, Brash, Waddell, 2014). This report recommended EDN (ethanedinitrile) as a potential replacement for methyl bromide.
Methyl Bromide Reassessment (2018-2021)
The modified MBr reassessment project sought to clarify the current controls, specifically the feasibility of recapture technology
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