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.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der Farmer's Weekly 19 January 2024-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
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Diese Geschichte stammt aus der Farmer's Weekly 19 January 2024-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
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The big appeal of a small Karoo dorp
Van Wyksdorp in the Karoo may not be near to anything, yet exploring its surrounding mountain passes and staying there is a journey very much worth taking.
THE HITCHING POST
I am a retired man and have been a widower for two years. I would like to hear from fun-loving women between 50 and 60 years of age with a good sense of humour.
Theft of horsebox wheels: an ongoing problem
When thieves broke in at her farm recently, they came well prepared with the right tools to forcibly remove locknuts on wheels, says Dr Mac.
How much nitrogen is enough?
Nitrogen is key to profitable vegetable farming. However, the application of this element can be overdone, causing crop loss, or underdone, with the same result, writes Bill Kerr.
Review: Toyota Hilux GR-Sport III
Siyavuya Mbaduli takes a look at Toyota's highly anticipated GR-Sport Ill, which is making a strong entry into the local market as a rugged and ready off-road adventurer.
Medical cannabis production is easier said than done
The production of medical cannabis calls for extreme attention to detail and precision, as well as compliance with intricate legislative requirements and official demands. It also calls for perseverance, as Annelie Coleman found out on a visit to medical cannabis producers Coenie and Ilse Venter near Viljoenskroon in the Free State.
The biggest threats to horse health in South Africa
Janine Ryan looks at the most threatening diseases and conditions in South Africa that impact horses and other equines, including colic, laminitis and Cushing's disease.
Paper: part and parcel of the agriculture industry
Despite the everyday use of electronic communication and other technologies, society is far from becoming paperless. Wood-based paper products are woven into the fabric of our everyday lives. Paper is used in printing, writing and stationery, food packaging, packaging of other goods and medicine, for hygiene and insulation purposes, money, and even in jewellery and construction.
Challenges facing vet services in South Africa
Dr Paul van der Merwe, CEO of the South African Veterinary Association, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the issues discussed at the World Veterinary Association Congress and how these related to the local industry.
Building a farming legacy from scratch
Mac Mabidilala is proof that you don't need to own land to get started in agriculture. He spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how he is realising his farming dream.