Add BrightSurf on Google Email

High yield crops keep carbon emissions low

A new report found that high-yield crop varieties developed during the Green Revolution have helped keep greenhouse gas emissions at bay, avoiding nearly 600 billion tons of CO2. The study estimated that agricultural research has averted carbon dioxide emissions at a cost of about $4 per ton of CO2.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 14, 2010

US crop yields could wilt in heat

A study predicts that US crop yields could decrease by 30-46% over the next century under slow global warming scenarios and by 63-82% under rapid scenarios. Crop yields are most vulnerable to temperatures above 29-32 degrees Celsius, depending on the crop.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2009

Tillage, rotation impacts peanut crops

A new study published in Agronomy Journal reveals that reduced tillage can increase peanut crop yields, but the effects of crop rotation and tillage on pest development are more complex. The research found an independent relationship between tillage and rotation practices with respect to peanut yield and pest development.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateNov 10, 2008

The 5 Ws of corn production

A study funded by Cargill Crop Nutrition found that varying nitrogen application rates can increase corn yield with similar or higher nitrogen rates, but may not improve grain quality. Researchers also discovered that one hybrid performed better than the other under both uniform and varied nitrogen applications.

SourceSoil Science Society of America·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateAug 31, 2007

Climate affects recent crop yield gains

A recent study found that gradual temperature increases cause significant decreases in crop productivity for corn and soybeans. Climate is identified as a crucial factor in crop yield trends, contradicting previous assumptions. The study's unique approach separates the effects of climate and technology on yield trends.