The National Institute of Agricultural Botany joins with members of the international plant science community to mourn the death at the weekend of Dr Norman Borlaug, renowned wheat scientist whose pioneering work in developing high-yielding wheat varieties and improved crop production systems is widely considered to have saved hundreds of millions of people from hunger in the developing world. Dr Borlaug was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his achievements.
Speaking on behalf of the Institute, NIAB Chief Executive Dr Tina Barsby said:
“Norman Borlaug was rightly regarded as the father of the Green Revolution, whose work formed the basis for modern, science-based agriculture around the world. The development of semi-dwarf wheat varieties in the mid-20th century helped increase food supplies on a global scales, and continue to provide the genetic basis for today’s high-yielding, disease-resistant wheat varieties grown on 80 million hectares around the world.
“Throughout his life, Norman Borlaug was committed to alleviating hunger and starvation in the third world. His work will continue to serve as an inspiration to plant scientists in our efforts to address future challenges of global food security and climate change.”
For further information contact:
Dr Tina Barsby, Chief Executive, NIAB
T: 01223 342290
E: tina.barsby [at] niab.com
Daniel Pearsall, Front Foot Communications
T: 01487 831425
E: daniel.pearsall [at] frontfoot.uk.com