Wheat production faces challenges in managing fertilizer use. Applying too little nitrogen fertilizer limits crop potential, while excessive use harms the environment through nitrogen runoff, damaging ecosystems and contributing to climate change. Wheat, however, remains essential for addressing global food demands.
In a recent study published in Nature Plants, researchers, including Senthold Asseng from the Technical University of Munich (TUM), examined experimental wheat varieties to address these issues.
The team tested these varieties in fields representing major wheat-growing regions, simulating climate conditions from today, and global warming scenarios at 1°C and 4.8°C.
The study found that the new wheat cultivars could increase yields by 16% under current climate conditions, with better nitrogen efficiency, reducing environmental impacts.
Researchers develop wheat varieties that boost food security but raise concerns over nitrogen management.However, global warming is expected to raise nitrogen demands, even though these new varieties will still use it more efficiently than current types.
While the new cultivars show promise for increasing food security, the problem of nitrogen management remains significant. Excessive fertilizer use may benefit yields but at a high cost, limiting access for many farmers and affecting sustainability.
Asseng emphasizes the need for a broader systemic approach. “New varieties alone won’t resolve the conflict between food security, environmental protection, and cost-effectiveness,” he says.
Instead, agricultural science, socio-economic factors, and policy-making must work together to ensure sustainable farming practices.
The study underlines that balancing agricultural productivity with environmental responsibility remains crucial for future global food security.