In the context of climate change, agriculture faces complex and unique challenges. Crop production directly depends on natural resources, weather, and climatic conditions. With rising temperatures, variable rainfall, invasive pests, and more, industry, farmers, and farming communities face a number of challenges. These effects tend to worsen as climate change accelerates, so it is very important to implement mitigation strategies as soon as possible to contain their long-term effects. In this regard, biofertilizers have emerged as a green solution for agriculture that can help combat the adverse effects of climate change. However, before exploring its significant benefits, we need to explore the complexities of biofertilizers.
Research on biofertilizers
Biofertilizers refer to the dormant or living cells of effective strains of microorganisms that help plants grow by combining them in the rhizosphere when the seeds are sown in the soil. It increases the supply of nutrients to the soil through nitrogen fixation, phosphate dissolution, release of phytohormones, and other processes, which promote the availability of nutrients necessary for plant growth, increase the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients, and increase biomass. When used effectively in agriculture, they create a healthy environment that will last for future growing seasons. Consistent use of biofertilizers by farmers can help improve yields. Because they are environmentally friendly (natural fertilizers), they prevent pathogens from multiplying and also protect the environment from pollution, making it a strong climate change mitigation strategy. In addition, it increases the fertility of the soil by improving the physical and chemical properties of the soil.
An environmentally friendly solution
The most important function of biofertilizers is to significantly reduce environmental pollution and improve agroecological sustainability. Compared to chemical fertilizers, they are more environmentally friendly and do not harm the ecosystem. In addition, they make it possible to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, which affect the soil, crops, and the environment as a whole. The demand for biofertilizers has increased over the years due to their environmental friendliness. According to IMARC Group, the biofertilizers market in India was a whopping USD 111.3 million in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 221.4 million by 2028 at a CAGR of 12.5%.