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CO2 emissions reduce soil phosphorus and put rice crops at risk
According to an international study, soil phosphorus is reduced due to prolonged exposure to high levels of CO2 in the atmosphere. The resulting decline in paddy field yields is a threat to food security

Dutch researchers bet on bacteria to reduce pesticide use
Researchers at the University of Wageningen in the Netherlands will study the potential of bacteria to fight plant pests without damaging the soil ecosystem. Crucial is the action of peptides, biodegradable proteins produced by the microorganisms

Central Asia will keep on suffering from agricultural drought for a long time
Chinese researchers believe that soil drought linked to climate change can no longer be offset by weather cycles. A challenge for the region's crops and economy

Global agriculture must reduce its dependence on phosphorus
Half of the available phosphorus in the soil comes from mineral fertilizers. Europe, Asia and North America show the highest concentrations. French researchers, "We need to accelerate the agroecological transition in rich countries by allocating the remaining resources to the global South"

Toilets may provide an alternative to chemical fertilizers
By recycling human manure it is possible to produce natural fertilizers that provide identical yields as chemical equivalents, a German research has found. No risk of drug contamination, the authors explain. But further studies are needed

EU agriculture mixes strategies against climate and geopolitical shocks
Combining different crops and mixing agriculture with livestock and forest management makes it possible to better respond to climate challenges and current crises. From Horizon magazine, a review of two European projects

The water cycle has changed. And it favors floods and droughts
Extreme rainfall concentrated in short periods is becoming more frequent just like months characterized by exceptionally low rainfall, scientists from the Global Water Monitor Consortium explain. Growth in duration and severity of heat waves causes "flash droughts" especially in Europe and China

US potatoes survive pests thanks to lobster shell
Ground shells from lobsters can feed communities of beneficial microbes, creating a line of defense against soil pests. Researchers from University of Maine researchers offer a potential circular solution to safeguard the state's major crop. Which would also avoid tons of waste

Land degradation and food crisis hit Bangladesh
Poor farming practices and dependence on fertilizer have damaged soils in Bangladesh. Nutrient deficiency remains a problem. Use of organic alternatives for soil grows

Soil damage impacts underground wildlife longer
According to a British study, in soil subject to human impact the restoration is slower organisms living underground than in surface. New perspectives in research are needed to protect biodiversity