Growing edible mushrooms near trees will provide a valuable food source for millions while absorbing carbon and mitigating the effects of climate change, according to a new study by scientists at the University of Stirling. It turns out that you can.
This approach not only reduces the need to clear forests to make way for crops, but also encourages planting.
The research by Paul Thomas, professor emeritus at the University of Stirling School of Natural Sciences, was published in PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences), the prestigious journal of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS).
Professor Thomas spent two years collating and analyzing data from public sources in collaboration with Professor Alistair Jump, Dean of the Natural Sciences Department.
Data from 2010 to 2020 show that there is now a significant global problem of land use competition between forestry and food production, resulting in net loss of forest area remaining high at around 4.7 million hectares per year. . Demand for agricultural land is the largest driver of global deforestation, which is projected to accelerate.
According to Professor Thomas’ analysis, cultivation of edible ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) in forests can sequester up to 12.8 tons of carbon per hectare per year, producing a nutritious food source for about 19 million people per year. I found that it is possible.
Professor Thomas says: Significant sequestration of greenhouse gases.
“This is a huge benefit and means that by producing this food we can make a positive contribution to climate change mitigation. All other major food categories lead to greenhouse gas emissions during production.
“We calculate that when this system is combined with current forestry practices, food production levels could be enormous. could have produced enough food for
“In China alone, forestry activity over the past decade could have put in place a food production system capable of producing enough calories to feed 4.6 million people a year.”
emerging technology
Professor Thomas said the technology is emerging and more needs to be done to realize these benefits. He called on researchers to get involved in the field and seek support from relevant institutions.
He added: It benefits biodiversity and conservation globally, provokes local socioeconomic development, and provides incentives to increase afforestation rates with all associated benefits. “
Original: Study Finds Growing Mushrooms Near Trees Can Feed Millions And Mitigate The Impact Of Climate Change
Than: University of Stirling
