About the Speaker

04/1991 - 03/1999 Research Associate and Assistant Professor of Nagoya University 

04/1999 - 09/2003 Associate Professor of Faculty of Systems Eng., Wakayama University  

10/2003 - 03/2009 Professor of Faculty of Systems Eng., Wakayama University  

04/2009 - Present Professor of Faculty of Science and Technology, Meijo University 

04/2014 - 03/2019 Director of Research Center for Plasma-Bio Science and Technology

Publications, Meijo University 

04/2019 - Present Director of Research Center for Plasma-Bio Applications, Meijo University 

Abstract

"Plasma Agriculture for a Sustainable Future: Innovations in Nitrogen Fertilization and Crop Enhancement"

Masaharu Shiratani, Pankaj Attri, Naotaka Okumura, Kazunori Koga

Kyushu University, Motooka 744, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan

siratani@ed.kyushu-u.ac.jp

The urgent need for sustainable agricultural production is driven by challenges such as nitrogen cycle disruption, the food production trilemma, and fertilizer shortages in impoverished and conflict-affected regions. Addressing these global issues requires transformative solutions that minimize CO₂ emissions while enhancing productivity. 

Kyushu University is pioneering a breakthrough in plasma agriculture, integrating plasma science with agronomy and environmental agricultural sciences to revolutionize crop breeding and fertilizer production. Our initiative focuses on three critical targets: (Target 1) elucidating plasma irradiation mechanisms, (Target 2) enhancing environmental adaptability and growth promotion, and (Target 3) developing nitrogen fertilizers with zero CO₂ emissions. By understanding the fundamental effects of plasma on crops, we aim to establish novel breeding techniques and nitrogen fixation technologies that eliminate reliance on fossil fuel-derived fertilizers.

To bridge the gap between academia and industry, we are developing the Kyushu Innovation Ecosystem, a seamless collaboration model between universities and corporations. This system ensures the rapid societal implementation of plasma-based breeding and fertilizer production technologies. Our goal is not only to restore nitrogen cycle balance but also to enhance agricultural productivity while expanding these technologies across Asia and beyond. 

By positioning Kyushu University as a global hub for plasma agriscience, we will drive a paradigm shift toward sustainable agriculture, fostering a resilient food system for future generations.