Plant Sensory Systems has developed a technology that optimizes a plant’s response to environmental stress (the NUEST technology). A single modification to the signaling system in plants addresses the three most pressing factors affecting agricultural production and costs:

♦ Nitrogen (N) fertilizer use
♦ Limited water availability
♦ High temperature

Global N fertilizer is the main reason for the significant increase in crop yield over the last few decades but it comes with a significant cost to the grower and the environment. N-based fertilizer is the largest single operating expense for growers of corn and wheat. In 2009, fertilizer expenses accounted for more than 17% of the total production costs of corn. Since crops use only about 50% of the N fertilizer applied to the fields, a plant that efficiently utilized N could withstand a reduction in the amount of applied N fertilizer. Crops with the NUEST technology have increased N use efficiency; they require less N fertilizer without experiencing a production loss. The result is a cost savings to the grower.

Unutilized N fertilizer runs off into rivers, lakes, and streams, causing algae blooms, which ultimately decrease the oxygen in the water, creating dead zones Reducing fertilizer use could help restore the health of the waterways. Reducing fertilizer use would also decrease fuel consumption associated with fertilizer production, distribution and application and in so doing decrease greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide.

Crop productivity is also dramatically affected by climate. Global annual crop loss due to climate effects is expected to increase by an additional 10% over the next 20 years due to anticipated global warming (Lobell, 2008). Recent model projections suggest that the global mean surface air temperatures will increase by 1.4 to 5.8°C by 2100. The consequences of these high temperatures include reductions in crop yields. Also associated with increased temperature is an increase in water-use needs. Analysts agree that water use will become a critical factor in the near future since currently 70% of water consumption worldwide is for agricultural purposes, mainly crop irrigation (United Nations Environmental Program). It is estimated that by 2025, world requirements for water development will increase 57% (USDA Economic Research Service). PSS’ NUEST technology increases crop productivity under conditions of limited water or high temperature.

Contact Plant Sensory Systems for more information or licensing opportunities.