Next Green Thing: An Evergreen Revolution

Is it time for another green revolution? When the world faced the possibility of famine in the mid-20th century, scientists and farmers averted global disaster by finding new ways to grow staple crops. New techniques, new breeds, and lots of new chemicals were used to bolster dwindling food supplies. The new methods were successful, but also did environmental damage that continues today.

Now the world once again faces international food shortages. The price of rice has nearly tripled this year, causing riots in some countries, as people struggle to keep their families nourished.

With major advances in agricultural science over the past half-century, some believe we are ready for another green revolution – possibly a more sustainable one. Or, as one scientist put it, an "evergreen revolution."

Joining Word of Mouth host Virginia Prescott to talk about advances in agriculture is Subhash Minocha, professor of plant biology and genetics at the University of New Hampshire.

(Photo by Kristupa Saragih)