Science into practice: Theories, successes and lessons

Extract

The transfer and uptake of existing and new knowledge is fundamental to the survival of a sustainable pig industry and the supporting network of research and development, and it is of some concern that a wealth of useful R&D information already exists that remains largely underutilised across all livestock sectors. In an environment of ever decreasing funding for research, it is important to recognize that research is a means to an end, not an end unto itself, and strategic planning is necessary to maintain a knowledge transfer focus in all activities in this field. Adoption of technology is the desired outcome for all applied pig research and this ultimately provides those involved with a measure of success whilst providing pork producers and industry with a competitive advantage, satisfying public perception of “industry dealing with issues” and importantly facilitating feedback from industry to those conducting research.