WHY CO2 IS GOOD FOR PLANTS AND PLANET
Greenhouse farmers spend money
on extra CO2 in their greenhouses (around 1200 ppm) for several
reasons:
Increased plant growth and yield:
Plants use CO2 for photosynthesis, the process by which they convert sunlight,
water, and CO2 into sugars for energy and growth. Studies have
shown that increasing CO2 concentrations within greenhouses can significantly boost plant growth and
yield, sometimes by 20-50%. This can lead to higher profits for
farmers.
Improved plant quality:
Higher CO2 levels can also improve the quality of certain crops. For example,
tomatoes grown with supplemental CO2 tend to be firmer,
have better color, and store longer. This
can make them more appealing to consumers and command higher prices.
Water efficiency: When
CO2 levels are higher, plants can use water more efficiently,
meaning they need less water to grow. This is
especially beneficial in areas with water scarcity or during droughts.
Reduced pest and disease:
Elevated CO2 levels can create an environment less favorable for some pests and diseases,
potentially reducing the need for pesticides and fungicides. This can
be beneficial for both the environment and human health.
Earlier maturity: In
some cases, supplemental CO2 can help plants mature faster, allowing farmers to get their crops to
market sooner and potentially take advantage of higher prices during certain
seasons.
Source: Bard AI
