Responding to emergency events

Preparing for the unforeseen

Our food supply chain and natural environment face constant threats from dangerous contaminants and damaging pests and diseases. Being an island gives the UK some protection, but expanding global trade and changing climate mean that we are more at risk than ever. Some threats, such as avian influenza, are visible as they move towards the UK. Others such as Sudden Oak Death are not. We have to be ready to deal with them all. CSL scientists play a key role at the front line of identifying and assessing the risks posed by food contaminants and unwanted disease-causing organisms.

Rapid detection, accurate identification, and clear risk assessment are essential in developing effective remedial strategies. The importance of our food supply chain and the fragility of our natural environment demand nothing less. CSL dedicates huge effort to protecting the food chain and environment by producing more reliable and accurate diagnostic and analytical methods based on latest research and development.

Dealing with emergencies requires massive capacity for sample testing, and CSL has invested heavily in equipment for DNA analysis and chemical analysis. Our world-leading molecular biologists have adapted sophisticated laboratory DNA forensic methods for use remotely at ports and airports to detect pathogens before they enter the country. Combining technical innovations with robust risk assessment gives our government and industry customers confidence in being able to anticipate and manage more effectively emergency events.

CSL maintains a state of readiness to deal with the unforeseen through our comprehensive skill sets relevant to food safety and environmental protection, our global outlook, and our flexible research base. Our determination to employing science with purpose means we are vigilant and prepared for the unforeseen.