CRISPR wheat could slash fertilizer use
New CRISPR wheat stimulates soil bacteria to fix nitrogen, cutting fertilizer needs.
Why it matters
- Reduces air and water pollution from excess nitrogen.
- Lowers costs for farmers globally.
- Boosts food security in developing countries.
By the numbers
- Wheat uses 18% of total nitrogen fertilizer.
- 800M+ tons of fertilizer produced in 2020.
- U.S. farmers spent $36B on fertilizers in 2023.
The big picture
- Could reduce nitrate pollution in waterways.
- Potential savings of over $1B annually for U.S. farmers.
- Beneficial for small farms in developing countries.
What they're saying
- Lead researcher highlights potential impact on food security in Africa.
Caveats
- Preliminary study, more research needed.
- Currently only tested in controlled conditions.
What’s next
- Research ongoing to extend to other cereals.
- Potential for significant savings and environmental benefits.