With increasing population growth, accelerated industrialization, and technological advancement, the consumption of natural resources and environmental degradation have reached unprecedented levels. Traditional development models have overlooked the finiteness of environmental resources, resulting in resource shortages, pollution, and ecological damage. According to the Brundtland Commission, sustainability is defined as "meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." In 2015, UN member states adopted the 2030 Agenda, which established 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The recent "2023 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Report" highlights several concerning trends, particularly regarding SDG 2: "Zero Hunger" and SDG 13: "Climate Action".
What goals have we decided to achieve this year?
Our project is closely aligned with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). We are developing an environmentally friendly, efficient, and sustainable production technology for 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) through innovative applications of synthetic biology. As a naturally biodegradable and eco-friendly biochemical amino acid, 5-ALA significantly enhances plant growth, stress resistance, and yield, especially under abiotic stress conditions such as drought and salinity, thereby improving crop adaptability and yield stability.
Additionally, our work relates to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). We conducted educational sessions on sustainable green agriculture and synthetic biology for children, youth, the elderly, and students in remote areas. These sessions provided a comprehensive introduction to green agriculture, its significance, and practical implementation, encouraging participants to adopt more sustainable lifestyles. We also developed educational materials, including picture books, board games, role plays, and pamphlets to spread knowledge on sustainable green agriculture.
Furthermore, we have engaged with local agricultural leaders and technical experts at the Nanjing Qixia Modern Horticultural Industry Science and Technology Innovation Center, Qingzhu Fruit Horticulture, the Rose Research Group, Chrysanthemum Base, Baiyue Agricultural Park, and Longtan Street Nan Zhongcun Rice Fields. Through face-to-face interactions and collaboration with diverse iGEM teams, we have introduced our project and potential partnerships, incorporating advanced technologies and research findings to enhance the project's innovation and effectiveness.
Why is it SDG2?
Changing climate conditions and diminishing availability of arable land and water resources are jeopardizing agricultural sustainability in many regions worldwide.Various abiotic and biotic stresses, such as soil salinization, drought, high temperatures, cold weather, diseases, and pests, significantly reduce crop yields, leading to adverse social and economic impacts. It is estimated that by 2050, over 50% of arable land will become saline, resulting in a loss of productivity. In 2023, drought affected 20.97 million people in China, impacting 3,803.7 thousand hectares of crops and causing direct economic losses of 20.6 billion yuan. Additionally, fungi, weeds, and other factors further hinder normal crop growth and development.
As the global population grows, the demand for food has become more urgent than ever. Recent data indicate that the number of people suffering from hunger has reached its highest level since 2005, with food prices remaining persistently high in many countries, particularly in Asia.Therefore, enhancing crop resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses is essential for promoting higher crop yields and improving global agricultural productivity.
Long-term Impact of NNU-CHINA:
Our project is dedicated to the synthetic biology-based production of 5-ALA, aiming to develop an eco-friendly, efficient, and sustainable technology for producing this plant growth regulator. As a naturally biodegradable biochemical amino acid, 5-ALA plays a crucial role in plant metabolic pathways, significantly enhancing crop growth, stress resistance, and yield. This contributes to stabilizing food production, addressing global hunger issues, and supporting the achievement of Zero Hunger (SDG 2).
Our Solution:
We have chosen Escherichia coli as the chassis organism for 5-ALA synthesis, providing a novel pathway for its production. E. coli is a well-established industrial microorganism with a clear genetic background, comprehensive vector systems, simple cultivation requirements, rapid growth, and easy product extraction, which shortens the production cycle. We employed the C4 pathway as the primary route for 5-ALA production, utilizing CRISPR-associated transposon system and microfluidics high-throughput screening technologies to optimize the process.
In collaboration with the Longtan Street's Nanzhong Village and Qixia Agricultural Industrial Park, we engaged in an in-depth discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of green biopesticides, seeking the best solutions to food scarcity issues. This was a profound exploration of green agricultural practices and a collective reflection on sustainable development pathways.
Why is it SDG3?
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer pose significant challenges to global public health. The impact of environmental factors on human health is becoming increasingly evident, with air, water, and soil pollution not only threatening ecological balance but also directly or indirectly affecting human health by increasing the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Traditional agriculture's extensive use of fertilizers and pesticides severely pollutes soil and water and can affect human health through the food chain, elevating risks of cancer, neurological diseases, and other conditions. Therefore, developing efficient, non-toxic, and eco-friendly biopesticides is crucial to alleviating global food security issues.
Long-term Impact of NNU-CHINA:
The synthetic biology-based production of 5-ALA circumvents the use of potentially toxic reagents associated with traditional chemical synthesis, thereby reducing the reliance on agricultural chemicals and minimizing environmental pollution. This approach indirectly safeguards human health. Moreover, our eco-friendly production strategy minimizes waste discharge, promotes green chemistry and circular economy practices, and maintains environmental health, providing a safer living and working environment. Meanwhile, the eco-friendly production and application of 5-ALA help mitigate the ecological impact of agricultural activities, protect biodiversity, and maintain ecological balance. This provides a healthier and more sustainable agricultural ecosystem, thereby enhancing human well-being.
Our Solution:
As a plant growth regulator, 5-ALA can significantly enhance crop stress resistance and yield, particularly under abiotic stress conditions such as drought and salinity, helping crops maintain growth in adverse environments. This not only boosts crop yields but also reduces dependency on fertilizers and pesticides, promoting a healthier and more diverse agricultural ecosystem. The synthetic biology-based production of 5-ALA drives the development of green agriculture, improving resource utilization efficiency and reducing waste generation, which promotes a circular economy and green production models in agriculture. This approach not only mitigates the environmental impact of agricultural activities but also fosters healthier, more sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Why is it SDG4?
SDG 4 aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. Globally, education quality varies significantly, with many schools lacking qualified teachers, modern facilities, and resources, which affects students' learning outcomes and innovation capacity. Our team's preliminary survey revealed a gap in public knowledge regarding green agriculture and synthetic biology. To address this, we conducted educational outreach activities for people of all ages and delivered online laboratory teaching to students in remote areas of Henan Province.
Long-term Impact of NNU-CHINA:
Our project not only deepens students' understanding and practical application of scientific knowledge but also sparks their passion for research, laying a foundation for cultivating future innovative scientists. We conducted educational campaigns on sustainable green agriculture and synthetic biology for children, young people, seniors, and students in remote regions. These sessions covered what green agriculture is, its importance, and how to achieve it, encouraging participants to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. By improving public scientific literacy, our project contributes to creating a society that supports technological innovation and focuses on sustainable development, helping to achieve the goal of quality education for all.
Technology has opened new doors for education, and our team's initiatives—such as online learning, virtual laboratories, educational games, and bedtime story podcasts—have helped break geographical barriers, providing personalized learning experiences for children in remote areas. By promoting equitable distribution and sharing of educational resources, our project helps narrow the education gap and ensures equal learning opportunities for students globally, advancing education equity.
Our Solution:
Our team has raised public awareness of synthetic biology, sustainable agriculture, and related scientific topics through science outreach, social media campaigns, and online education. We also developed various educational materials, including brochures, board games, and picture books, and organized two engaging science plays. These diverse communication methods not only enriched the public’s learning experience but also explained the scientific principles of synthetic biology and the practical significance of green agriculture in a simple and entertaining way. This approach has ignited curiosity and interest in sustainable development and science, fostering a collective vision for a greener future.
Why is it SDG6?
SDG 6 aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. This goal is of critical global importance, particularly in areas such as water resource management, water quality protection, and the expansion and maintenance of sanitation infrastructure. Our iGEM project, leveraging synthetic biology technology for 5-ALA production, contributes directly to SDG 6 by promoting sustainable development in agriculture while enhancing clean water access and sanitation. As a plant growth regulator, 5-ALA significantly improves crop resistance and yield. Its use reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, thereby mitigating water pollution and promoting the sustainable management of clean water.
Long-term Impact of NNU-CHINA:
By applying 5-ALA, which enhances crop resilience and water use efficiency, our project reduces agricultural dependence on chemical inputs, lowering chemical residues in water bodies and safeguarding water quality for downstream communities. This directly supports the goal of clean drinking water. Furthermore, 5-ALA improves crops' water utilization, easing the demand on water resources from irrigation and promoting efficient and sustainable water management. This approach not only reduces water waste but also provides a sustainable agricultural model for arid and semi-arid regions. The economic benefits from improved agricultural productivity can contribute to better sanitation infrastructure in rural areas, enhancing public health and supporting the goal of universal access to clean water and sanitation.
Our Solution:
In response to global challenges in water resource management, water quality protection, and sanitation infrastructure, our project provides an innovative, sustainable solution through 5-ALA synthetic biology technology. By enhancing crops' water use efficiency and stress tolerance, 5-ALA enables plants to thrive under lower water conditions, reducing the demand for irrigation and alleviating pressure on limited water resources. Additionally, the reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides minimizes the potential for water contamination, helping to preserve water quality and maintain ecological balance. By improving agricultural productivity, the project indirectly supports the development of rural economies, providing the foundation for improved sanitation infrastructure. Furthermore, by enhancing water quality, the project reduces the prevalence of waterborne diseases, contributing to overall public health improvements.
We also visited the Nanjing Chengbei Sewage Treatment Plant. We learned that there is a special treatment link for pesticide wastewater in sewage treatment. Because chemical pesticides contain a large number of harmful substances which are extremely harmful to the environment and human health. 5-ALA is able to solve this problem. At the same time, we also mobilized students to participate in the Yangtze River environmental protection garbage clean-up activities to make our contribution to better water quality.
Why is it SDG13?
Despite global consensus on the urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, carbon emissions continue to rise, leading to alarming consequences such as rising sea levels and an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Climate change is driving droughts, floods, heatwaves, and wildfires, posing severe threats to human societies and natural ecosystems. Raising public awareness and understanding of climate change is essential for effective action.
Long-term Impact of NNU-CHINA:
Our project offers an innovative, environmentally friendly solution to global agriculture, increasing productivity and adaptability while reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and minimizing environmental harm. By enhancing agricultural resilience to climate change, our project supports global sustainable development and directly contributes to SDG 13. The long-term promotion and application of this project have the potential to make a significant impact on a global scale, helping to alleviate the global food crisis, protect the environment, and enhance climate change adaptability
Our Solution:
Through the use of 5-ALA, our project enhances crop resilience, enabling plants to better withstand extreme weather conditions caused by climate change, such as drought, high temperatures, and cold. By improving photosynthetic efficiency and increasing resistance to abiotic stresses, 5-ALA indirectly contributes to carbon fixation and helps slow the accumulation of greenhouse gases. This mitigates the impact of climate change on agricultural production.
By enhancing crops' adaptability to changing climates, we strengthen agricultural system resilience, ensuring stable food production even in adverse conditions. Additionally, replacing chemical pesticides with biopesticides reduces greenhouse gas emissions during chemical synthesis and decreases methane and nitrous oxide emissions from pesticide degradation in the soil. By boosting resistance to environmental stress, we also reduce excessive water and fertilizer usage, promoting the efficient and sustainable use of agricultural resources.
Why is it SDG17?
SDG 17 emphasizes the importance of strengthening domestic and international partnerships to foster global collaboration. It aims to establish effective partnerships among governments, businesses, and civil society, while mobilizing resources to support the achievement of all other Sustainable Development Goals. By leveraging diverse resources and fostering cooperation, SDG 17 ensures the realization of sustainable development targets. Our project builds partnerships with experts and institutions in agriculture and biotechnology, accelerating technological innovation and application.
Long-term Impact of NNU-CHINA:
Our project will establish strong partnerships with multiple countries, international organizations, and research institutions. Through regular international conferences and joint research efforts, we will facilitate global knowledge and technology exchange. In terms of resource mobilization, our project will receive ongoing financial support from governments, private sectors, and international development funds, attracting diverse funding streams through innovative financing mechanisms to ensure continuous expansion.
On the level of technology and knowledge sharing, we will create an open online platform to share technical guidelines and best practices. By collaborating with global agricultural research networks, we aim to significantly enhance the skills of smallholder farmers and agricultural workers. Additionally, our project will actively participate in global and regional policy dialogues, working closely with policymakers to promote frameworks that support agricultural sustainability and climate adaptation, serving as a key reference for driving agricultural transformation.
Moreover, our project will implement capacity-building and technology transfer initiatives in multiple developing countries, significantly improving local communities' ability to cope with climate change. By establishing localized training centers and online learning platforms, we will provide ongoing learning opportunities for agricultural workers, promoting the localization of knowledge and innovation.
Our Solution:
To achieve these goals, we conducted in-depth exchanges with agricultural leaders and technical experts at Nanjing Qixia Modern Horticultural Industry Innovation Center, Qingzhu Fruit Horticulture, the Rose and Chrysanthemum Research Groups, Bailv Agricultural Park, and Nanzhong Village rice fields in Longtan Street. Through collaboration with diverse iGEM teams, we introduced advanced technologies and research outcomes, enriching our understanding of local agricultural conditions and injecting new vitality into our project's optimization and global agricultural sustainability.
Additionally, we participated in the Second Synthetic Biology Industry Expo, which brought together experts, companies, and research institutions in synthetic biology to discuss the latest advancements and industrialization paths in this field. Through participation in such events, we aim to promote cross-border collaboration and exchange, drive technological innovation, and build a more interconnected and supportive global development network.
