The past few decades have witnessed increased emphasis on plant introduction, hybridisation, mutation breeding, genetic engineering, molecular biology, evolving disease resistance plants, tissue culture, improving plant and crops through different means. Additionally plants with improved nutritional qualities were raised.
It is realised that Plant science research has tremendous potential to address pressing global issues including climate change, food insecurity and sustainability. However, without sustained investment in plant science, the necessary research to generate innovative discoveries that solve these urgent problems is at risk.
On September 1, the Plant Science Research Network (PSRN) released its Plant Science Decadal Vision 2020-2030: Reimagining the Potential of Plants for a Healthy and Sustainable Future, a report that outlines bold, innovative solutions to guide investments and research in plant science over the next 10 years.
The PSRN calls on its community to unite around the Decadal Vision’s priorities and to inspire their government representatives and fellow community members.
Fifty diverse participants — including scientists, industry representatives, educators and advocates — discussed the future of research, training and infrastructure.
Four research goals are presented: Harness plants for planetary resilience; Advance technology for diversity-driven sustainable plant production systems; Develop 21st-century applications of plant science to improve nutrition, health, and well-being; and Launch the “Transparent Plant,” an interactive tool to discern mechanisms and solve urgent and vexing problems.
The intersection of genetics, bioinformatics, developmental biology and evolutionary biology should be encouraged.
