Can we hack photosynthesis to feed the world? | Steve Long

This podcast episode highlights the collaborative efforts of researchers and plant biotechnologist TJ Higgins to enhance food security through genetic modifications. They have developed insect-resistant cowpea, a commonly grown crop in West Africa that is susceptible to a damaging insect. The genetically modified cowpea offers farmers a powerful tool to protect their crops and has been approved for use in Nigeria and Ghana. The researchers are now combining their advancements in photosynthesis with insect resistance to create genetically modified seeds that produce higher crop yields and are insect-resistant. This innovative approach has the potential to address food scarcity and promote sustainable farming practices, contributing to a modern green revolution. Takeaways • Increasing carbon dioxide concentration boosts crop yield. • Solving the issue of shading improves crop performance. • Genetic modifications have been used to develop insect-resistant cowpea. • Genetically modified cowpea is available to farmers in Nigeria and Ghana. • Researchers aim to combine photosynthetic improvements with insect resistance for higher crop output and insect protection. • This approach can address food insufficiency and promote sustainable farming practices.