The Moonshot Podcast Deep Dive: David Guerena on the Future of Agriculture
6 snips
Sep 5, 2025 David Guerena, an Agricultural Scientist at CIAT, shares insights into the future of agriculture and the vital role of plant breeding. He discusses the historical journey of plant domestication and the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, particularly relating to climate change. Guerena emphasizes the impact of technological advancements in phenotyping and how these innovations help enhance crop resilience. The conversation also highlights the importance of preserving agricultural biodiversity and adapting modern tools to support small farms worldwide.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Origins Of Crop Domestication
- Crops were domesticated ~10,000 years ago in multiple global centers called Vavilov centers.
- Those regions remain rich reservoirs of crop genetic diversity important for future breeding.
Breeding Is Ancient But Still Core
- Most plant breeding still uses the same selection principles humans have used for millennia.
- Modern tools add precision, but the core method—selecting desirable traits—remains unchanged.
Climate And Demand Are Changing Targets
- Varieties bred historically may not suit rapidly changing climates and human needs.
- Breeding must adapt to heat, pests, water changes, dietary shifts, and new uses like biofuels.