Nuclear technology is used to enhance fertilizer efficiency primarily through isotopic tracing techniques, which allow scientists and farmers to determine the exact amount of nutrients plants absorb to reduce waste and costs, increase crop yields and mitigate environmental pollution.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Moroccan OCP Group, a global leader in plant nutrition solutions, have sealed a five-year strategic partnership to advance scientific research for sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems.
Under the agreement, which aligns with the “Atoms4Food” initiative, the two partners will launch a coordinated research project (CRP) applying nuclear and isotopic techniques to improve fertilizer efficiency, enhance crop nutritional quality and reinforce the sustainability of food systems.
“This partnership with OCP represents an important advancement in how strategic collaboration can amplify the impact of our Atoms4Food initiative”, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said.
“OCP’s significant commitment and on-the-ground expertise, combined with the IAEA’s unique expertise in nuclear techniques, will translate advanced science into practical solutions for farmers. Together, we will generate the evidence and tools needed to use fertilizers more efficiently, cultivate more nutritious crops and strengthen climate-resilient food systems, particularly in the regions that need them most”, he said.
“This collaboration marks a strategic milestone for OCP Group and a major step forward in our mission to strengthen global food security”, said Meriem El Asraoui, Chief Global Affairs Officer of OCP Group.
“By combining the IAEA’s world-class expertise with OCP Group’s deep experience and groundbreaking innovations in plant and soil nutrition, we will generate transformative knowledge, support researchers and farmers on the ground and advance agricultural practices that deliver higher yields, better nutrition and longterm environmental stewardship”, she underlined.
The “Atoms4Food” initiative was launched in 2023 by the IAEA and FAO, focusing on the use of nuclear technology to enhance global food security, improve nutrition, and combat hunger.
