When plants are able to obtain nitrogen from the air, energy is saved and air pollution is also prevented. In another research project, our scientists are trying to gain a better understanding of how viruses infect plants. Through first understanding the process by which plants become infected, we can then work to interrupt this cycle and prevent the virus from causing damage to the plant. In the end, farmers will have a healthy plant that is higher in quality than its conventional counterpart and that also delivers superior yields at harvest. Whether in a laboratory or on a farm, biotechnology is already demonstrating its potential benefits to the environment.
Farmers plant numerous seeds of corn and cotton that have been enhanced through biotechnology.
One example is a strain of corn with built-in resistance to protect naturally against insect pests. So-called Bt corn enables farmers to use fewer pesticides, saving money while improving crop yields. Since the Bt crops are less likely to fall to pests and pathogens, farmers can produce more food, use less land, burn less fuel to run farm machinery and produce safer food supplies. Weed control is essential for efficient agriculture because it prevents weeds from competing with the crops. Weeds cause losses in yield, and as a result more acres must be planted for compensation.