Honoring a Trailblazer in Agricultural Science
Mariangela Hungria, a renowned microbiologist from São Paulo, Brazil, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 World Food Prize for her pioneering contributions to sustainable agriculture. The award, often dubbed the “Nobel Prize for Food and Agriculture,” includes a cash prize of $500,000 and was presented to Hungria on 13th May 2025 by the World Food Prize Foundation.
Revolutionary Work in Reducing Chemical Fertilizer Use
Hungria earned global recognition for her innovative research aimed at reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers. Her work has led to the development of natural seed and soil treatments that not only enhance crop yields but also boost the nutritional value of food crops. Through the use of biological solutions, she has empowered farmers to grow more with less, contributing to both economic and environmental sustainability.
A Legacy Spanning Over Four Decades
With a career spanning over 40 years at the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Hungria has played a pivotal role in advancing the science of biological nitrogen fixation. Her focus has been on promoting the use of beneficial soil bacteria that naturally convert atmospheric nitrogen into a plant-usable form, reducing the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.
Transforming Brazilian Agriculture
Hungria’s research has had a profound impact on Brazilian agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of soybeans, maize, wheat, rice, and beans. Her work has made soybeans Brazil’s top agricultural export, with production skyrocketing from 15 million tonnes in 1979 to a projected 173 million tonnes in 2025. According to the World Food Prize Foundation, these advancements have helped Brazilian farmers save approximately $40 billion annually in input costs.
Biological Nitrogen Fixation: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Farming
At the heart of Hungria’s research is biological nitrogen fixation, a natural process by which certain bacteria in the soil convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into ammonia, which plants can absorb and utilize. This method has enabled farmers to:
- Reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers
- Lower production costs
- Minimize environmental pollution
- Enhance long-term soil fertility
Global Implications for Food Security and Climate Resilience
Hungria’s innovations come at a critical time when the world is seeking solutions to combat climate change, soil degradation, and food insecurity. By promoting nature-based solutions, she has paved the way for more resilient and sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.
Conclusion: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists
The 2025 World Food Prize awarded to Dr. Mariangela Hungria highlights the importance of investing in agricultural research and innovation. Her work not only transforms farming systems in Brazil but also serves as a model for sustainable food production around the globe.