Photosynthesis may be a marvel of Nature but it is actually a relatively inefficient process, usually capturing only about five per cent of available energy.
Scientists have long sought ways to increase the efficiency of photosynthesis and have noted that some species of plants, algae and bacteria have evolved much more efficient ways of reducing energy loss.
Much of the focus is on replicating this. Indeed, three UK/US funded teams are among those that were recently awarded more than £5m to continue their research projects aimed at improving the efficiency of photosynthesis.
The teams – each comprising scientists from the United Kingdom and the United States – were awarded money from the UK-based research body BBSRC and the National Science Foundation in the United States to develop methods to increase the yields of crops that are harvested for food and sustainable biofuels.
Each of the three teams is working in a new and unique way to improve, combine or engineer the efficiency-boosting mechanisms found in naturally occurring photosynthesis.
Jackie Hunter, BBSRC Chief Executive, said: “Nature barely skims the surface when it comes to photosynthesis and making use of the sun’s energy.
“There is huge room for improvement and these research projects are taking steps to help us to unlock hidden potential that could benefit us all. Using the sun’s energy more efficiently means a greater potential to produce fuel, food, fibres, useful chemicals and much more.”
