Honouring a Trailblazer in Agricultural Science for Reducing Fertilizer Dependency
Mariangela Hungria, an esteemed microbiologist hailed from the vibrant city of São Paulo, Brazil, has been honoured with the illustrious 2025 World Food Prize for her groundbreaking advancements in sustainable agriculture. This esteemed award, often regarded as the “Nobel Prize for Food and Agriculture,” is accompanied by a generous cash prize of $500,000. On the momentous day of May 13, 2025, the World Food Prize Foundation celebrated Hungria’s remarkable achievements by presenting her with this prestigious honour, recognising her pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future for food production around the globe.
Revolutionary Work in Reducing Chemical Fertiliser 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 groundbreaking research has transformed Brazilian agriculture, breathing new life into the cultivation of soybeans, maize, wheat, rice, and beans. Her innovative methods have propelled soybeans to become Brazil’s crown jewel of agricultural exports, with production skyrocketing from a modest 15 million tonnes in 1979 to an astounding projected 173 million tonnes by 2025. This remarkable surge has not only reshaped the landscape of Brazilian farming but has also led to significant economic benefits, with farmers saving an impressive $40 billion annually in input costs, as highlighted by the World Food Prize Foundation. This revolutionary work not only feeds the nation but also strengthens Brazil’s position in the global agricultural market.
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 groundbreaking innovations emerge at a pivotal moment when the world is urgently searching for effective solutions to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, soil degradation, and food insecurity. By championing nature-based solutions, she has paved a transformative path that fosters more resilient and sustainable agricultural practices worldwide. These initiatives not only promise robust yields but also nurture the soil and ecosystems, creating a harmonious balance between human needs and the health of our planet.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists
The 2025 World Food Prize was bestowed upon Dr. Mariangela Hungria, celebrating her groundbreaking contributions to agricultural research and innovation. Her pioneering work has not only revolutionized farming practices across Brazil’s vast landscapes but also shines as a beacon of hope for sustainable food production on a global scale. By blending science with nature, Dr. Hungria exemplifies how innovative farming methods can nourish communities while preserving the environment for future generations.