From Monday 24 to Thursday 28 November, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) will showcase a number of innovations at this year’s Science Forum South Africa, including the smart precision agriculture system, biodegradable mulch films and an artificial intelligence-integrated risk tool aimed at improving South Africa’s agricultural sector and advancing efforts towards achieving Zero Hunger.
The event is being hosted by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) at the CSIR International Convention Centre, under the theme “Igniting Conversations about Science – Placing Science, Technology and Innovation at the Centre of Government, Education, Industry and Society.”
CSIR researchers will exhibit a Precision Agriculture Information System for smart farming, funded by the DSTI and developed in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council. This data-driven crop management platform provides users with near real-time insights into crop and soil health using satellite data and in-situ observations, allowing users to make informed decisions on soil preparation, crop monitoring and yield estimation. Developed by the CSIR, PAIS is a cornerstone of the government's broader fourth industrial revolution strategy in agriculture.
Another innovation to be demonstrated is the biodegradable mulch films, also referred to as biodegradable agri-mulch films. These biodegradable mulches are currently being tested at a pineapple farm in Peddie, in the Eastern Cape. These sustainable mulch films were designed to match the functionality of conventional fossil-fuel-derived plastic mulches, while improving crop yields, conserving soil moisture, regulating temperature, suppressing weed growth and reducing environmental impacts. Traditional mulches, typically made from petroleum-based plastics, often contribute to microplastic pollution and are seldom recycled due to their contamination with soil and organic matter. The project is also funded by the DSTI through its South African Circular Economy Demonstration Fund.
Additionally, there will be a demonstration of the CSIR-developed One Food Risk Tool prototype aimed at solving one of South Africa’s biggest conundrums: the country produces enough food, yet many people go to bed hungry every day.
The science forum serves as a public platform for academics, researchers and students to showcase technological innovations and explore the relationship between science and society.
Members of the media are invited as follows:
Date and time: 24 - 28 November 2025 09:00
Venue: CSIR International Convention Centre
RSVP and enquiries:
RSVP contact: Phetolo Phatsibi, CSIR Media Practitioner
Email: @email
Mobile: 0813968871
About the CSIR:
The CSIR, an entity of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, is one of Africa’s leading organisations in scientific and technological research, development and implementation. Constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1945 as a science council, the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans.
This year, the CSIR celebrates 80 years of touching lives through innovation. For more information, visit www.csir.co.za
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