The researchers were able to overcome the limitations of natural photosynthesis. The key in this process is the two-step conversion of carbon dioxide, electricity, and water to acetate, which plants can absorb and grow in complete darkness.

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Combined with solar panels to generate electricity, this method of growing crops is called 18 times more efficient than traditional.

We tried to find a new way of producing food that could overcome the limitations often imposed by biological photosynthesis.
— says Robert Jinkerson, one of the study’s authors.

Photos provided to reporters by a team of researchers show tomato and bean sprouts at an early stage of their development. Again It is unclear whether they are fertilized and whether they have reached sufficient size.. The pictures help us understand one thing: the no-light cultivation method really works.

Plants that grow in total darkness / Photo: Marcus Harland-Dunaway / UCR

If the method really allows plants to reach full size and bear fruit, it opens up new opportunities for farmers who won’t have to plant transparent greenhouses outdoors or on the street. Crops can be grown indoors without exposing plants to the risk of damage by natural disasters or drought. And such buildings will not even need to be illuminated when no one is inside.

In addition, simplifying food cultivation can significantly reduce food prices.