Researchers found that increased CO2 levels restrict plants' ability to absorb nitrogen, a key nutrient for crop growth. The study reveals reduced nitrogen content in crops regardless of growth stimulation or fertilizer addition.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a type of grass, Setaria viridis, that can fix nitrogen using bacteria, making it a potential model for studying this process in crops like corn and rice. This discovery could lead to more efficient use of fertilizer and promote sustainable agriculture.
A study found that controlled-release fertilizers can reduce the environmental impact of landscape palms by limiting nitrogen and phosphate application. Areca palms, in particular, showed growth comparable to traditional fertilization methods when using a 0-0-16 fertilizer formulation.
A team of researchers has developed a semiconductor chip made almost entirely of wood, using cellulose nanofibril as a biodegradable material. The new device demonstrates the feasibility of replacing traditional chip substrates with a more environmentally friendly alternative, reducing waste and toxicity.
A new study reveals a complex marine phosphorus cycle with a hidden role for microbial communities. Microbes transform phosphorus into phosphonates at varying rates depending on depth, shedding light on the ocean's ability to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.
A study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Columbia University reveals a more complex marine phosphorus cycle than previously thought, with microbes playing a key role in using and breaking down forms of the essential element. In the process, about five percent of phosphate is converted to phosphonates in shallow water samples.
Researchers found that wetlands created between tile-drained agricultural fields and rivers can remove 62% of nitrates from water. The slow flow of water through the wetland allows microbes to eliminate nitrate, reducing its emission as a greenhouse gas. Building a wetland is an effective long-term solution for reducing nitrate runoff.
A new study published in Nature Climate Change shows that growing biofuel crops can have a significant impact on climate depending on the location and crop type. The study found that the most important factor influencing the direct climate impact of biofuels is location, accounting for 90% of the variation in greenhouse gas emissions.
Soil erosion and nutrient removal, exacerbated by climate change and farming practices, pose a significant risk to global food security. The authors propose recycling nutrients from waste treatment facilities and improving soil management to mitigate losses.
Researchers developed a combination approach to recover phosphorus from wastewater using mathematical modeling. The method achieved approximately 90% removal of phosphorus, generating $150,000 in annual revenue for WWTPs with limited budgets. This sustainable approach reduces mining demand and improves surface water health.
New research found that mycorrhizal fungus triggers additional root growth in rice crops, allowing them to absorb more nutrients. The fungus also enmeshes itself within plant cells, providing a direct mineral boost.
Recent research showed that replacing chemical fertilizer with organic manure significantly decreased greenhouse gas emissions. Organic farming improved crop yields while reversing the agriculture ecosystem's role as a carbon source, becoming a carbon sink.
A detailed genetic road map of Upland cotton has been created to improve crop yields, reduce water usage, and minimize pesticide applications. The new sequence will enable researchers to better understand the interactions between genes that determine fiber production and oil content in seeds.
A study by University of Montreal and University of Western Australia scientists reveals that plants in Australian bushland use an array of root strategies to obtain nutrients from poor soils, defying expectations.
Research suggests that selective breeding of maize led to the evolution of root systems more efficient in acquiring nutrients like nitrogen. The study found that newer commercial varieties performed better in every agronomic environment, with characteristics known to increase nitrogen uptake.
Scientists used tobacco plants with altered defense genes to demonstrate that functional diversity within a species is essential for ecosystem health. The study found that variations in single plant genes can have large effects on whole plant populations, improving their ability to defend themselves against herbivores and other threats.
A new study found that groundcover management systems can improve soil organic matter and reduce bulk density in organically managed apple orchards. The research suggests that using green compost or commercial fertilizer with these systems can increase plant-available water and meet National Organic Program goals.
A group of scientists, economists, and agriculture experts is working together to develop sustainable farming practices that minimize environmental pollution. The goal is to increase food production while ensuring farmers can make a living and the environment remains healthy.
Researchers found that liquid corn and fish fertilizers are good options for organic blackberry production, meeting plant nutrient needs except for calcium and boron. The fertilizers were effective in delivering nutrients through the drip system, but regular flushing was recommended to prevent emitter clogging.
Experiments show that living mulch can reduce broccoli yields, with reduced effects when organic fertilizer is added.
Researchers at Western Michigan University are working on a multi-pronged nutrient bio-remediation system to clean up algal blooms in waterways. The algae can be used as a feedstock for biofuels, while the waste is high in nutrients and carbohydrates, suitable for recycling back into farm fields as organic fertilizer.
A new satellite will monitor solar storms and detect pollution from underground aquifers that seep into the ocean. The Deep Space Climate Observatory will provide critical warnings for astronauts and operators of planetary infrastructure.
A study published in HortScience found that hydrolyzed fish fertilizer is an economically feasible nitrogen source for growing organic vegetables, even when yields are reduced. The authors concluded that the premium price and resultant profit associated with organic products can offset the yield reductions.
The presentation focuses on developing novel materials that can prompt reactions in the lab, which could help reduce levels of greenhouse gases. The research aims to mimic nature's chemistry to solve global environmental problems and provide new solutions for industrial applications.
Scientists are finding valuable metals in sewage, including gold, silver, and rare elements like palladium and vanadium. The discovery could reduce the need for mining and decrease environmental pollution by recovering these metals from treated solid waste.
MSU researchers are using big data analytics to help farmers adapt to climate variability, reducing nitrous oxide emissions and algal blooms. The project aims to integrate crop models with satellite imagery and UAVs to promote water-, nutrient- and climate-smart technologies.
Researchers warn that localized issues like nutrient pollution and deforestation can exacerbate climate change impacts on ecosystems. Strengthening local management is crucial to expand the 'safe operating space' for these ecosystems, which are critical to global biodiversity. Local actions can be well understood and not too expensive.
Researchers warn that localised issues such as water pollution and deforestation can exacerbate the effects of climatic extremes, reducing an ecosystem's capacity to cope with climate change. The authors call for enhanced local action to protect globally important ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef and Amazon rainforest.
A new study reveals that nutrient pollution can reduce stream-dwelling species' food source, as moderate amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus halve the in-stream residence time of leaves and twigs. This loss of forest-derived carbon impacts stream health and aquatic life.
A new study finds that nutrient pollution reduces the availability of forest-derived carbon in stream ecosystems, cutting its energy source for aquatic life. This loss accelerates the breakdown of leaf litter, affecting the entire food web.
Researchers found that nitrogen-fixing bacteria evolved to become less beneficial to legumes when exposed to long-term nitrogen fertilizer. This shift could have far-reaching ecological and environmental consequences in natural areas adjacent to farmland or areas with nutrient pollution. The study suggests that changes in the quality o...
Researchers created a comprehensive guide for farmland in the Ohio and Upper Mississippi River Basins, narrowing the scope of choice to optimize run-off mitigation. The guide recommends specific conservation practices based on soil type, land slope, crops, and nutrients used.
Northwestern University scientists have developed a catalyst that can convert nitrogen to ammonia under natural conditions, mimicking the process found in nature.
Researchers warn of planetary-scale risks from human activities, citing four processes that have exceeded safe conditions and two that pose serious threats to future human wellbeing. The team's findings indicate that the Earth is entering a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene, where the global economic system drives change.
A team of researchers warns that human activity has crossed four planetary boundaries, putting food production and clean water at risk. The nitrogen-phosphorus cycle, essential for life, is particularly compromised due to limited phosphorus supplies and excessive fertilizer use.
Research by Professor Peter Young and his team reveals that bacterial strains are unique, with different genes and capabilities, similar to human individuals having unique genetic makeup. This study sheds light on the importance of understanding bacterial communities and their functioning through metagenomics.
A massive dead zone in Lake Erie was linked to the 2012 drought, according to a new study. Researchers found that agricultural practices and meteorological conditions explain year-to-year variability in the size of the dead zone.
A recent study published in HortScience suggests that nitrogen from reclaimed water can support optimal turfgrass growth. The researchers found that turfgrass responded positively to higher concentrations of nitrogen in the irrigation water, but the concentration needed was at least 5 mg·L−1.
A new study recommends CRF placement methods that can reduce fertilizer and irrigation expenses and minimize nutrient leaching into the environment. The dibbled method has potential to produce the greatest quantity of leachable nutrients, while also conserving expensive fertilizer resources.
Archaeologists discovered intestinal parasites' eggs from the Celtic period in Switzerland, indicating poor sanitation and mixed living environments. The parasite eggs suggest a lack of proper waste management and possible livestock introduction, highlighting the challenges faced by ancient communities.
A recent study revealed a significant increase in anthropogenic nitrate levels in the North Pacific Ocean over the past 30 years, primarily due to enhanced atmospheric deposition. This shift in nutrient availability may favor certain marine organisms and alter the base of the marine food web.
Researchers found that nitric oxide signals plants to limit nitrogen uptake, allowing for optimal growth without excess pollution. This discovery could inform crop breeding and fertilizer use, resulting in more sustainable agriculture.
Researchers found that fine particles eroded from riverbanks were the main source of phosphorus in Lake Pepin sediment before 1850. After 1850, riverbanks absorbed P from polluted river water, contributing to increasing phosphorus concentrations. Upgrading sewage treatment plants is crucial to controlling phosphorus pollution upstream.
Researchers found that invasive seaweed provides shelter for native crustaceans, increasing their population by up to 100 times. Meanwhile, mature forests capture and stabilize excess nitrogen from human activities, providing an unappreciated service by storing it in soil.
A new study led by University of Michigan researchers finds that microcystin-producing cyanobacteria in Lake Erie are becoming more sensitive to phosphorus, suggesting current reduction targets may not be enough to curb blooms. The team also suggests invasive quagga and zebra mussels may be driving the trend.
A new study suggests that changing global diets can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from food production. The study reveals that a shift towards healthier diets, reduced food waste, and sustainable agricultural practices can significantly reduce the environmental impact of food production. By adopting balanced eating habits, includin...
Researchers analyzed microbial communities from sandy tidal flats, finding three key factors controlling denitrification and ammonification: nitrite to nitrate ratio, carbon to nitrogen ratio, and generation time. The study's findings shed light on the complex interactions between microbes and their environment.
Research suggests climate change could reduce the size of extreme low-oxygen waters in the ocean. As trade winds weaken, nutrient-rich water percolates up from the deep sea, supporting marine life and oxygen levels.
Researchers are developing Camelina sativa as a biodiesel crop for the Great Plains, which can grow on poor-quality farmland and requires little irrigation and fertilizer. By altering the plant's biochemistry, they aim to create low-viscosity oil that can be used directly in diesel engines.
African rice genome sequencing enables scientists to identify traits resistant to environmental stress and develop new varieties with high-yield potential. The effort aims to solve the 9 billion-people question by creating a super-rice that requires less water, fertilizer, and pesticides.
Researchers found that applying green compost to organic apple orchard floors can increase soil organic matter and total nitrogen mineral soils. The study demonstrates the sustainability of organically managed systems and has implications for sustainably and conventionally managed orchards as well.
The study found that beef is the most costly to the environment, followed by dairy and poultry, while pork and eggs are relatively similar. The researchers developed equations to calculate the environmental costs per calorie and protein unit, providing a comprehensive picture of the ecological impact of various foods.
A new study suggests that improving food systems on specific regions and crops can boost global food security and protect the environment. The report identifies key leverage points for reducing environmental impacts and increasing food production in six countries: China, India, U.S., Brazil, Indonesia, and Pakistan. Closing the yield g...
Researchers propose combining 'fertigation' and decentralized water treatment with drip irrigation to create 'tailored' water containing high levels of nitrate. This approach aims to reduce waste and increase efficiency in lawn care, but further study is needed to address potential challenges.
A synchronized lock and dam system failed during a severe flood in April 2013, resulting in seven unmoored barges crashing into the dam. The incident caused significant damage to the navigation channel, flooding adjacent land and disrupting agricultural shipments.
Researchers at IBS developed polymer nanocapsules with metal nanoparticles, offering high stability, dispersibility and catalytic activity in water. This technology replaces toxic liquid solvents with environmentally preferable ones, enabling sustainable catalysis.
A team of genome scientists has identified a 'hit-and-run' mechanism that allows regulatory proteins to initiate gene activation. This discovery has potential practical applications to improve nitrogen responses in crop plants, reducing fertilizer runoff and environmental health risks.
A Cornell-led study describes an important role of a protein called OPT3 in maintaining balance of essential micronutrient iron in plants. The research found that OPT3 transports iron and regulates its concentration to partition cadmium away from edible plant parts.
Agriculture accounts for 80% of human-caused nitrous oxide emissions, which rise faster than expected when fertilizer rates exceed crop needs. Applying more precise amounts of nitrogen-based fertilizer can help combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The Phaseolus genome study provides valuable information on the genetic basis of nitrogen fixation in common beans, a crucial legume for agricultural sustainability. The research identified dense clusters of genes related to disease resistance and nitrogen metabolism, offering potential targets for future crop improvement efforts.