Wheat stands as the most crucial grain globally. However, it comes with significant environmental concerns primarily due to nitrogen fertilizer usage. Recent research indicates that newer wheat varieties are more productive while requiring the same amount of fertilizer.
Finding the right fertilizer amount for wheat crops can be challenging. Insufficient fertilizer leads to the complete consumption of what’s available, resulting in lower yields. Conversely, over-fertilizing can produce a good harvest, but not all the fertilizer is absorbed by the crops. This excess nitrogen can infiltrate our ecosystems, causing harm to both the environment and the climate. Still, wheat plays a vital role in addressing the rising hunger worldwide.
To tackle these issues, a research team led by Senthold Asseng, a digital agriculture professor at TUM, along with Pierre Martre from INRAE and other scientists, has been exploring new experimental wheat varieties. Their findings have been shared in Nature Plants. The research utilized data from five experimental fields known for high wheat yields across key global growing regions. These fields were incorporated into a simulation model that examined varying climate scenarios: current conditions, a 1-degree Celsius increase, and a 4.8-degree Celsius rise. The study aimed to project yield outcomes for the new varieties based on different nitrogen fertilizer applications.
Improved Yields, Yet Nitrogen Issues Persist
The findings revealed that the new wheat varieties can deliver 16% higher yields under current climate conditions compared to the existing varieties, assuming equal fertilizer use. This improved nitrogen efficiency leads to a smaller ecological footprint. Nonetheless, the research pointed out that as global temperatures rise, overall nitrogen requirements will also increase to attain the maximum yield potential, even though the newer cultivars will still exhibit better nitrogen efficiency than the older strains.
Thus, these new wheat varieties outperform the current options in significant ways, potentially enhancing food security. However, managing nitrogen responsibly remains a challenge, impacting environmental health and climate change. The researchers also note that nitrogen can be costly. Therefore, while increased fertilizer application may optimize harvests, it won’t be feasible for all producers globally, leading to higher expenses for farmers and consumers alike.
A Comprehensive Approach to Food Security
Scientists now advise that the tested varieties be incorporated into breeding programs: “Enhanced selective breeding can potentially bridge the food gap for the next 20 to 30 years. However, just introducing new varieties won’t resolve the complex challenges of global food security, environmental sustainability, and economic viability,” states Senthold Asseng. “A holistic approach is necessary, integrating agricultural methods, environmental considerations, socio-economic elements, and the involvement of policy makers.”
