Global food systems feed the global population, but also significantly
contribute to climate change. In an article, Kevin Doxzen of the World
Economic Forum answered the question, â??How engineered crops can fight
climate change?â?�

Genetic engineeringis one of the tools used by scientists to adapt to
climate change. Improved varieties ofrice, maize, and wheathave been
developed to withstand extendeddroughtperiods and wetter monsoon
seasons. Extreme temperatures also contribute to more fungal and pest
attacks, and thus, experts have used GE technology to make cassava,
potatoes, and cacao disease resistant. Aside from these efforts, GE
tools for climate change adaptation are currently used for mitigation.

The following projects involving GE crops are expected to help fight
this environmental problem:

* Innovative Genomics Institute to use CRISPRto improve the ability of
plants and soil microbes to capture and store carbon from the
atmosphere.
* Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency project optimized
photosynthesis to make plants 40% more productive, meaning less
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
* The Harnessing Plants Initiative engineered roots to be sturdier,
larger, and deeper, improving their resistance to decomposition and
thus, minimizing carbon escape.

[www.weforum.org]