By Andi Anderson
Since 1888, Michigan State University’s AgBioResearch has been a cornerstone of innovation for farmers, ranchers, and food producers across the nation.
Originally focused on advancing agricultural productivity, the organization’s mission has evolved into a broader effort that integrates agriculture, health, and environmental research to meet modern challenges.
At the heart of this mission lies the One Health approach—a framework that emphasizes the deep interconnection among humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
While the concept isn’t new, it has become increasingly vital as global population growth, land use changes, and expanding international trade continue to alter how people interact with nature and animals.
These changes contribute to critical global concerns such as food insecurity, zoonotic disease risks, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental degradation. Recognizing these complex relationships, MSU AgBioResearch is working to develop sustainable solutions that improve health outcomes across all systems.
George Smith, director of MSU AgBioResearch, explained the importance of this integrated perspective: “It’s essential to recognize that all of these systems are interrelated and dependent on one another to remain healthy. To solve these complex problems, we must bring together experts from human, animal, plant, and environmental health fields.”
Smith added that collaboration is the key to meaningful progress: “We can’t solve anything by operating in silos, and that’s why we’re excited about our work in AgBioResearch and how it complements the overall MSU emphasis on One Health.”
Through its research network, partnerships, and commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, MSU AgBioResearch continues to lead efforts that ensure healthier communities, resilient ecosystems, and sustainable agricultural systems for the future.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture