European Research Center for Social Development

Tag: Carbon Sequestration

  • Environmental impacts of genetically modified (GM) crop use 1996–2018: Impacts on pesticide use and carbon emissions

    Crop biotechnology, specifically the use of genetically modified (GM) crops, has significantly altered the environmental footprint of global agriculture since their widespread commercialization over two decades ago.

    The researchers point out that the adoption of insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant technology has led to a reduction in pesticide spraying by 775.4 million kg, an 8.3% decrease. According to the study, this shift has improved the Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ)—a metric used to measure the impact of pesticides—by 18.5% on the areas where these crops are grown.

    The study also highlights how GM technology has facilitated changes in farming practices, such as reduced tillage and lower fuel consumption.

    The authors explain that these changes have resulted in a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, the researchers calculate that in 2018 alone, the carbon emissions saved were equivalent to removing 15.27 million cars from the road.

    Ultimately, the paper concludes that the transition to GM cropping systems has provided measurable benefits for both chemical reduction and climate change mitigation in the agricultural sector.

    Learn more about this study: https://doi.org/10.1080/21645698.2020.1773198

    Reference:

    Brookes, G., & Barfoot, P. (2020). Environmental impacts of genetically modified (GM) crop use 1996–2018: Impacts on pesticide use and carbon emissions. GM Crops & Food, 11(4), 215–241.

  • The soil crisis: The need to treat as a global health problem and the pivotal role of microbes in prophylaxis and therapy

    Soil provides essential services for a healthy biosphere and human survival, such as feeding the global population and sequestering carbon to counteract global warming. However, the researchers point out that Earth is currently facing an unprecedented crisis of soil deterioration, desertification, and erosion caused by anthropogenic abuse and extreme weather events.

    According to the study, soil is not merely “dirt” but a dynamic living entity whose life is overwhelmingly microbial. The soil microbiota acts as a vast bioreactor that mediates chemical reactions, recycles waste, and purifies water, fueled by the organic carbon fixed by aboveground plants.

    To address this crisis, the study proposes a new approach that treats soils worldwide as patients in need of medical care. The authors advocate for the creation of a public health system to develop effective land-use policies and monitoring, alongside a healthcare system charged with implementing prophylactic measures and therapies for unhealthy soils.

    The researchers highlight that a substantial investment in interdisciplinary research is mandatory to understand the soil-biota functionalities that underpin ecosystem services. Ultimately, the paper concludes that the creative application of microbial biotechnology, supported by a cohesive political and legislative framework, is central to restoring soil health and ensuring a sustainable future.

    Learn more about this study here: https://doi.org/10.1111/1751-7915.13771

    Reference:

    Timmis, K., & Ramos, J. L. (2021). The soil crisis: The need to treat as a global health problem and the pivotal role of microbes in prophylaxis and therapy. Microbial Biotechnology, 14(3), 769–797.