Photosynthesis and Food Production

photosynthesis and food production

Climate change affects food production, and in a planet where population is growing and food sources are needed, that has become a problem. It means that agricultural methods need to adapt or find new ways to grow more food. Along this line scientists have found how to use photosynthesis to increase soybean production. Photosynthesis is the process through which plants use sunlight, when combined with water and carbon dioxide, they can produce oxygen and energy rich carbohydrates which improves crop performance. It’s still new and still requires adjustments. It’s also  not without its critics who wonder if it is so possible why isn’t nature itself doing it. Regardless it has been successful in yielding more soybeans  and since soybeans are often used to feed livestock instead of humans, the plan is to apply it to other crops such as rice, cow-pea and cassava.

Maybe other methods such as reducing food waste or consuming less meat may ultimately be faster to improving the food crisis, the point is that humankind is at a stage where food production must increase without using more land, and photosynthesis offers such a promise. It is a form of genetic modification, yes and yet it is one which can be so helpful particularly in helping vulnerable populations feed their families.  The process will still need to meet government regulations, but it has been attempted in several settings  with success. Although it is not yet a reality ready to be used on a large scale it still provides an example of  working to create adjustments to the consequences of climate change.