Benefits of Plant Science Innovation Highlighted on World Water Day
Singapore, 20 March 2015 – With World Water Day being recognized in Asia and around the world over the 21-22 March weekend, CropLife Asia highlighted the important conservation benefits being delivered through plant science industry innovations.
“With the global population growing, less and less arable land available, and a changing climate, our farmers face great obstacles in feeding the world. Factor in the realities of water scarcity in many locations, and the challenge becomes that much more daunting.
When it comes to using our water wisely here in Singapore, Asia, and around the world, conservation is key. Extraordinary innovations in plant science continue to fuel agricultural advancements that are helping conserve precious water supplies and change the game. The work of the plant science industry is making a significant impact in this critical area. This World Water Day, CropLife Asia reaffirms its commitment to water conservation and building on this progress.”
Estimates suggest that agriculture accounts for 70 percent of all human consumption around the world. As one noteworthy example, almost 2,500 liters of water are needed to grow one kilo of rice.
Through an increasing number of innovations, plant science is enabling farmers around the world to engage in better water use efficiency. One of the specific benefits of plant science currently being realized is the water conservation it promotes by helping reduce the need for tillage. No-tillage farm techniques, where the soil remains undisturbed, aids water conservation by retaining moisture in soil. Research has shown that no-till weed control with herbicides increases soil moisture by 25 percent and production by 16 percent.
About CropLife Asia
CropLife Asia is a non-profit society and the regional organization of CropLife International, the voice of the global plant science industry. We advocate a safe, secure food supply, and our vision is food security enabled by innovative agriculture. CropLife Asia supports the work of 15 member associations across the continent and is led by eight member companies at the forefront of crop protection, seeds and/or biotechnology research and development. For more information, visit us at www.croplifeasia.org.
For more information please contact:
Duke Hipp
Director, Public Affairs
CropLife Asia
Tel: (65) 6221 1615
