The world's population has quadrupled in the last century and is expected to surpass 8 billion by 2050. This means that in the next 25 years or so, the world will need to produce about 60% more food to feed its estimated population.

Furthermore, we’ll need to produce that food sustainably in unseasonable temperatures, drought and flood conditions, all while fighting disease and pests, and on less land.

Jonathan talks to Clemson plant geneticist Rick Boyles on this episode of Earthly.

Boyles is one of many researchers worldwide tackling the challenge of feeding a growing global population through plant breeding.

Boyles is going to give some background in plant breeding, talk about advances modern technology have brought to the plant breeding process, and hopefully leave us with room for optimism.

Show Notes

Clemson receives FFAR grant to promote sorghum health benefits
Clemson reseacher developing new line of wheat to withstand Southeast growing conditions
Clemson rejoins forces with collaborative group to kick-start small grains program
Clemson researcher studying sorghum's resistance to fall armyworm

For show notes and additonal resources, visit https://blogs.clemson.edu/earthly/.

Earthly is hosted and produced by Clemson University.