The primary source of food for us is vegetation. We are predominantly vegetarians. In order to sustain our increased numbers, we need abundant crop resources. The animals we consume are mostly herbivores as well.
Heat, water and carbon dioxide are what plants need in order to exist. There can be too little or too much of all of them, but plant life exists over a wide range of each of them. The basic equation on which all life on Earth depends is: carbon dioxide + water > glucose + oxygen in the presence of sunlight and chlorophyll. This reaction takes place in plant cells. The glucose is used by the plants and oxygen is used by humans and animals.
CARBON DIOXIDE AND GROWTH
It has been shown by photos taken from space that there has been greening of the Earth’s surface since the start of the space age. Therefore, the conditions on Earth currently seem good and getting better for growth of vegetation.
If the Industrial Revolution has had any effect at all on the Earth’s climate then it is one to celebrate and rejoice.
Research indicates that carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere continues to rise. It is currently at about 440ppm (parts per million carbon dioxide). To put this in proportion, every adult human breathes out about 45 000ppm with every exhalation. Submarines allow up to 6 000ppm carbon dioxide in their atmosphere before considering it too dangerous.
It has been shown by horticulturalists growing produce in glasshouses with an atmosphere of 600ppm to 800ppm that crop yields can be increased in comparison to crops grown in normal atmospheric conditions, currently about 440ppm. Therefore, there is still substantial opportunity for increased yield of crops should the parts per million continue to increase. The concentration in 1850 has been estimated at about 235ppm.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
ARC names best dairy producers of the year
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) recently announced the winners of the 2024 National Master Dairyman Awards at an event hosted by AgriExpo in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Lion breeders to give up bone stockpiles?
The Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued an official notice in mid-November in which it called on lion breeders to voluntarily hand over their lion bone stockpiles to the state as soon as possible.
Thousands of British farmers march on parliament against inheritance tax
Thousands of UK farmers gathered in London, England, on 19 November to demand the government repeal a proposed inheritance tax on agricultural land, which they argued threatened the future of family-run farms (see page 4), Al Jazeera reported.
Avocado frittata with sundried tomatoes, feta and olives
This wholesome, vibrant frittata is perfect for brunch or a light supper. Recipe and photo: The South African Avocado Growers' Association.
Feed, hay, and other costs are up, so it's time to get creative
Breeders and riding schools need to explore innovative ways to generate income in order to ensure their survival, says Dr Mac.
How to make polystyrene seedling trays last longer
While thinking about how to prolong the lifespan of polystyrene seedling trays that are exposed to harsh sunlight, Bill Kerr began to wonder if a coat of paint might offer a solution.
Living the 'culture' in agriculture
Creation Wines has won numerous awards, was ranked fourth in the World’s Best Vineyards in 2023, and more recently won the V d’Or award for the Best Brand Experience. The owners, Carolyn and Jean-Claude Martin, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how their winery became a top tourism destination.
Time to take a deep breath on the slopes of the Magaliesberg
Around 100km from both Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng and a tad over 40km from Rustenburg in North West, Farmer’s Weekly found a fine retreat on a working farm where couples may kindle their romance.
African penguins could be extinct by 2035 how to save them
Protecting the critically endangered African penguin is good for the environment, other animal species, and the economy, say Lorien Pichegru and Dr Alistair McInnes of Nelson Mandela University, Katrin Ludynia of the University of Cape Town, and Peter Barham of the University of Bristol in the UK.
An urgent need to confront Nassella in SA
South American grass species from the genus Nassella were unwittingly introduced to South Africa over 120 years ago and continue to invade montane veld. As Mike Burgess writes, research-based action is required.
