Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026

A CO2 Concentration Gradient Facility for Testing CO2 Enrichment and Soil Effects on Grassland Ecosystem Function
Published on: November 21, 2015
Food for thought: lower-than-expected crop yield stimulation with rising CO2 concentrations
Stephen P Long1, Elizabeth A Ainsworth, Andrew D B Leakey
1Department of Plant Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, 1201 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801, USA. stevel@life.uiuc.edu
Abstract:
Model projections suggest that although increased temperature and decreased soil moisture will act to reduce global crop yields by 2050, the direct fertilization effect of rising carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) will offset these losses. The CO2 fertilization factors used in models to project future yields were derived from enclosure studies conducted approximately 20 years ago. Free-air concentration enrichment (FACE) technology has now facilitated large-scale trials of the major grain crops at elevated [CO2] under fully open-air field conditions. In those trials, elevated [CO2] enhanced yield by approximately 50% less than in enclosure studies. This casts serious doubt on projections that rising [CO2] will fully offset losses due to climate change.
More Related Videos
07:12High-Throughput, In-Field Screening of Photosynthetic Efficiency in Crop Plants Using an Autonomous Robot
Published on: January 9, 2026
09:02Building and Operating a Low-Cost Elevated Carbon Dioxide Growth Chamber to Evaluate Microgreen Physiology under Spaceflight-Relevant CO2 Levels
Published on: April 17, 2026
Related Concept Videos
What is Climate?
Adaptations that Reduce Water Loss
Key Elements for Plant Nutrition
Responses to Drought and Flooding
Responses to Heat and Cold Stress
The Calvin Benson Cycle