It is now scientifically proven that the so called damaging greenhouse gases can help produce more crops. The production of fruits and seeds in crops such as wheat, rice and soybeans will increase due to the higher levels of CO2. This study showed that the higher levels of carbon dioxide, while it may have a negative effect on some parts of the environment, help the plants produce a higher yield of crops. Carbon dioxide is considered a "gaseous fertilizer" and in recent studies has shown effects on over 79 species of plants (corn, cotton, wheat, rice, wild radish, and heath plants).
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2002/11/1122_021125_CropYields.html
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3 comments:
Katy, that's very interesting! You always think of CO2 as this toxin in the environment, but it's actually helping things to grow. However, wouldn't the increase in plant growth help to control C02 in the air, as plants consume this gas? It would make sense!
Are there predictions for crops that will available in the future if the climate change continues? Also, are there some crops that will not be available anymore if this climate change continues?
Nice introduction. When I think of climate change affecting crops, I think of the change in temperature (and growing mangoes in Minnesota). I hadn't thought of the increased carbon dioxide as being beneficial. I hope someone discusses how temperature will affect the production of food...
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