Climate Change And The Effect On Rice

Dr. Lewis Ziska from the USDA is researching the impact of increased atmospheric CO2 on rice growth. Using growth chambers to simulate past, present, and future CO2 levels, Ziska aims to identify rice breeds that thrive in higher CO2 environments. This research is crucial as rice is a staple for 2 billion people. CO2 levels have risen by 30% since the 1960s, and Ziska's work seeks to leverage this increase to boost rice yields, potentially benefiting global food security.

Why is it important to adapt rice cultivation to higher CO2 levels?

What potential benefits does Ziska hope to achieve through his research?