Disruptive Innovation
2025 AWARD COMMENDATION
Respond Bio is a patented biological innovation that regenerates soils while boosting farm productivity. It offers a different approach to traditional agriculture. Instead of relying on chemical fertilisers, the system uses beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi in multi-species seeds to restore soil's natural function.
The microbes enable plants to absorb nitrogen and phosphorus more effectively. This means stronger yields with far less chemical input. Deeper roots develop, soil health improves, water retention increases and plants become more drought-resistant.
The results from field trials are significant. At Kanui Farm in Hawke's Bay, over the past three to four years, 100 hectares planted with Respond Bio produced 18-22 tonnes of dry matter per hectare annually – a 36-43% increase compared to traditional fertilised pastures that produce around 14 tonnes. This was achieved at lower cost and with fewer inputs.
Respond Bio addresses real compliance pressures farmers face – resource consents, freshwater farm plans, a nitrogen cap and potential methane charges. It helps meet these requirements by driving productivity through regeneration rather than just cutting inputs.
The judges said: "RespondBio’s patented blend of natural fertilisers and live fungi is restoring soil health and resilience from the ground up, and improving land productivity by 40%. It reduces the need for synthetic inputs, boosts drought tolerance and supports a thriving soil microbiome. It’s a great example of how science can work with nature to significantly improve how New Zealand and the world grow food."