Food production

Growing plants to eat is one of the simplest ways to produce food. We can apply our knowledge and understanding of biology to make even this simple process more efficient and productive.

This could involve improving the quality of the soil and the productivity of plants, or reducing losses due to pests and diseases or in storage. Sustainability is also important in food production – the methods we use must be useful for many generations to come rather than just a few seasons. Sustainability includes reducing the carbon footprint of our farming methods.

Experiments

• Investigating the effects of biochar on soil fertility
  Research suggests that biochar is a soil improver that also acts as a carbon store. Assess the effect of biochar on the growth of seedlings and evaluate the methods used.
• Evaluating methods of pest control
  The data presented allow students to compare different methods of pest control and evaluate.
• Investigating what makes fruit go brown
  Observe cut and crushed apple or potato turning brown. Test hypotheses to explain the reaction. Apply results to commercial food processing and suggest how to prevent or slow down browning.