Deeper Soybean Roots Studied for Carbon Storage and Climate Resilience
Researchers at the Salk Institute are testing whether soybean plants with deeper roots can better withstand climate extremes and store more carbon, supported by the Bezos Earth Fund. The roundup also reports on U.S. wind policy changes, a 2-GW North Sea offshore converter contract, and a federal ruling that the EPA illegally ended a $7 billion solar program for low-income Americans. It notes that space-based solar power could reach the grid by 2028.
The Salk Institute research, supported by the Bezos Earth Fund, is examining whether soybean plants whose roots grow farther down can tolerate climate extremes while storing more atmospheric carbon. Soybeans are a major agricultural crop, so any root trait that improves resilience could matter for food supply as weather becomes less predictable.
The same news roundup also covers energy developments: a 2-GW offshore converter contract for the LanWin3 North Sea grid link, a court ruling that the EPA unlawfully ended a $7 billion low-income solar program, and a DOE office combining former solar and wind programs. Space-based solar power might reach the grid by 2028.
If deeper-rooted soybeans prove viable, farmers may gain a crop better able to handle drought and heat, potentially stabilizing yields and food prices. Consumers could benefit from more resilient supply, while carbon storage might offer modest climate gains. The outcome remains uncertain until field testing confirms whether root traits persist and help under real conditions. Energy policy shifts in the roundup may separately affect low-income solar access and offshore wind timelines.