Technological core competences form the basis of the CSIR's long-term sustainability and relate to the unique ability to acquire, develop and transfer technology within a number of specific market-related themes. Largely similar to the technology missions of the National R&D Strategy, the CSIR has defined its technological core competences as manufacturing and materials, ICT, environment, infrastructure and bioscience. The organisation is also active in the areas of mining and defence technologies. This section of the Annual Report offers a brief snapshot of the CSIR’s activities during the year under review by highlighting a number of innovative projects and initiatives in these areas.