CRISPR and Genome Editing for Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

The exponential growth of the global population, coupled with the impacts of climate change, has intensified the demand for sustainable agricultural practices. Conventional breeding methods have been effective but remain time-intensive and often limited in precision. Recent advances in genome-editing technologies, particularly CRISPR-Cas systems, have revolutionized crop improvement by enabling targeted, efficient, and cost-effective modifications. This paper explores the application of CRISPR in achieving sustainability in agriculture by enhancing crop yields, improving resistance to pests and diseases, reducing dependency on chemical inputs, and developing climate-resilient crops. A review of recent research highlights the potential of CRISPR in addressing food security challenges while also identifying ethical, ecological, and regulatory considerations. The study concludes that CRISPR and genome editing, if responsibly applied, hold the key to a sustainable agricultural future.