Seed Storage Required for Global Mining Company
The main purpose of seed storage is to maintain the viability of the seed. Preserving the seed with its initial quality until it is needed for planting.
THE CLIENT
South32
South32 is a globally diversified mining and metals company that creates value by producing commodities that are used in many aspects of modern life.
THE SITUATION
South32 contact Humiscope wanting climate controlled seed storage to be used on their site in Groote Eylandt in the Golf of Carpentaria, off the coast of the Northern Territory.
Humiscope Director John Morgan visited the site and after understanding the company’s objectives, it was concluded that the site required two cold rooms with low humidity and to run at 4°C to optimally store seeds for an extended period of time.
Seed Storage Containers
The choice was made to engage Humiscope, located in Queensland, to design and construct the seed storage rooms at their Gold Coast warehouse. The completed rooms were then delivered to the client, fully operational.
Upon receiving approval from the client, Humiscope decided to repurpose two insulated containers. The team equipped each with a commercial-grade refrigeration system and a AD550 desiccant dehumidifier. Additionally, Humiscope installed shelving and lights, transforming the containers into fully functional seed storage rooms.
The containers were transported and delivered in March 2022, and they were first put into use in early 2023, maintaining conditions of 4°C and 30% relative humidity (RH).
“All reports onsite are the units are functioning very well and the Rehab Team(s) are very happy with their new assets.”
Inside one seed storage container fitted with refrigeration, desiccant dehumidifier, shelves and lighting
An insulated seed storage container fitted with HVAC+R, shelves and lights. Ready to deliver.
We convert existing spaces into climate controlled storage rooms to suit our clients requirements. On this project, we modified containers, using state-of-the-art HVAC+R systems, making them commercially viable seed storage storage facilities.
Seed Storage for Mining
Land rehabilitation is an obligatory requirement for Australian mining companies. While complete restoration is generally never possible, there are several practices that are commonplace within the industry.
One such practice is seed collection, storage and eventual regermination.
A 2019 handbook published by the Australian Government asserts that after seed collection occurs, they are to be stored in optimal conditions that maintain seed viability over the period of storage.