Biofuels:
Renewable sources of energy are a necessity if society is going to thrive in the 21st Century. Danforth Center researchers are using multiple strategies to harness plant-based energy sources that are environmentally sustainable and created in-country.

Biofortification:
For many people living in developing countries, a varied diet is a luxury they cannot afford. Danforth Center researchers are working to make plants like cassava and sweet potato more complete nutritionally, thus breaking the cycle of malnutrition.

Disease Resistance:
Plants bred with enhanced disease resistance have increased yield and will ultimately feed more people per-acre.

Drought Tolerance:
As the world’s supply of fresh water continues to decline, and climate change continues to cause unpredictable weather around the world, it is more important than ever that we use our fresh water resources wisely. Drought tolerant plants also can open up large, once-unusable areas of land to farming.

Pesticide & Fertilizer Reduction:
Enhancing plants to be naturally resistant to pests means that less harmful pesticides will be needed. Plants that have improved uptake of nutrients from the soil need less nitrogen-based fertilizer. This benefits both subsistence farmers and the environment.

Biosafety & Regulation:
The Center is dedicated to releasing enhanced crops in a safe, culturally sensitive manner. The Center is also fast becoming the "go-to" resource for other organizations working to do the same.