Contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals

Developing Technology for Managing Flowering Seasons

The super-early-maturing wheat that emerged in East Asia enabled cultivation in high-latitude and arid regions because of its short time to harvest. Building on fundamental understanding of this early-maturity gene and others, we are developing new techniques to regulate flowering periods. This could serve as one adaptation strategy to climate change.

Microorganisms that Suppress Methane Emissions

from Paddy Fields

Methane is a greenhouse gas approximately 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide, and paddy fields are among its primary sources. We are conducting research on the types, characteristics, and dynamics of methanotrophic bacteria—microorganisms responsible for oxidizing and eliminating methane—that inhabit paddy fields. Our objective is to leverage the properties and functions of these microorganisms to mitigate methane emissions from paddy fields.

Biomanufacturing

For the advancement of sustainable industrial development, biomaterial manufacturing technologies utilizing microorganisms and plants are regarded as promising. We engage in research and development to contribute to environmentally friendly manufacturing by harnessing recyclable microorganisms and resources.

Microorganisms that Live by

Oxidizing Iron in Paddy Soil

In paddy fields subjected to repetitive flooding and draining, alterations in the redox states of iron impact soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, along with the dynamics of other elements. These processes are intricately linked to rice cultivation and environmental preservation. Our objective is to examine the physiological and ecological traits of iron-oxidizing bacteria to elucidate their function within the material cycles of paddy fields.

Gaining a Thorough Understanding of Microorganisms and Learn to Work with Them Effectively to Harness Their Benefits