|
 2008
IFA Crop Nutrition Laureate Tackles Rice Sustainability
Achim
Dobermann is recognized for raising yields and reducing nutrient losses
Achim Dobermann, Deputy Director General for
Research of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), is the
recipient of the 2008 IFA International Crop Nutrition Award. The award
recognizes Dr Dobermann’s pioneering research on the fine-tuning of
fertilizer and crop management practices in order to promote the
ecological intensification of rice, maize and soybean production systems
in many countries.
Rice is the primary staple crop of roughly two-thirds of the world
population. It accounts for 15 per cent of global fertilizer use;
improving crop nutrient use efficiency in rice production is therefore
central to meeting growing food demand sustainably. Raising rice yields
per kilogram of fertilizer applied increases farmer profitability,
reduces nutrient losses to the environment and eases pressure on natural
resources. Eighty per cent of the world’s rice is grown by small-scale
famers, which means that efficient and productive rice farming can help
improve the economic prospects and quality of life of many of the
world’s poor.
As a Soil Nutrient Specialist and Project Team Leader at IRRI
(1992-2000), Dr Dobermann led the development of a new approach to site-specific
nutrient management in small-scale rice production systems. One of his
most important contributions has been the innovative crop-driven
management of plant nutrients for cereal crops. This approach is more
flexible than traditional recommendations for soil fertility and
fertilizer management. At IRRI he spearheaded work concerned with on-farm
research strategies that set new standards for long-term involvement of
farmers in the research process. His efforts led to closer collaboration
between scientists, extension workers and the private sector in many
countries.
Subsequently, while based at the University of Nebraska (2000-07), Dr
Dobermann led research programmes on the ecological intensification of
maize and soybean production; greenhouse gas emissions and carbon
sequestration; new farming recommendations for high-yield maize
production systems; and precision farming technologies for site-specific
crop management. His work has demonstrated how fertilizer best
management practices can create significant mutual benefits for farmers
and society in some of the world’s most intensive cropping systems.
Dr Dobermann was nominated for the 2008 IFA International Crop
Nutrition Award by K+S KALI GmbH, which was impressed by his dedication
to the principle that high food production, profitability, high nutrient
use efficiency and minimal environmental impact are compatible and can
be achieved through finely tuned crop management practices.
Dr. Dobermann will receive his award during the Opening Session of
the IFA
Annual Conference on 20 May 2008 in Vienna, Austria. |
