By Andi Anderson
The University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) played a key role in global research that won the prestigious Frontiers Planet Prize.
The $1 million award recognizes research that can help solve the world’s biggest environmental problems.
Led by the University of Colorado Boulder and involving 62 researchers across five continents, the study explored how diversified farming improves both environmental and social outcomes.
Diversification means growing different crops and animals, using soil and water conservation, and protecting natural habitats on farms.
The paper, published in Science in April 2024, used data from 2,655 farms in 11 countries. It found that diversified farms supported more biodiversity, maintained or improved yields, and increased food access, especially for small-scale producers.
Former UGA postdoctoral researcher Olivia Smith and UGA entomologist William Snyder contributed to the project. Smith helped design and analyze the study, based on her earlier doctoral research at UGA on bird biodiversity, crop yields, and farmer well-being. Snyder helped with data collection, analysis, and review.
The research shows that farm diversity not only protects the environment but also benefits farmers and rural communities. It challenges the idea that sustainability hurts productivity.
Each international winner of the Frontiers Planet Prize receives $1 million to support ongoing research. With this funding, the global team hopes to expand their work on sustainable agriculture and guide policies that balance productivity with environmental care.
This project proves how international teamwork and science can help shape a healthier, more sustainable future for agriculture worldwide.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture