Beneficial fungi could play an important role in making agriculture more sustainable. A research team at the University of Zurich (UZH) focuses on healthy soils and aims to use mycorrhizal fungi to promote plant growth, increase yields, and reduce the use of pesticides and fertilizers.
In Switzerland, over 2,000 tons of pesticides are used every year. To protect the environment, the use of pesticides and mineral fertilizers in agriculture must be reduced. These substances leave traces throughout the ecosystem: they threaten biodiversity and also endanger human health.
Alternative solutions are therefore urgently needed for a future-oriented agriculture. Pilot studies show that microorganisms can activate plants’ immune systems, improve nutrient uptake, and boost yields. “Inoculating” farmland with natural fungi—so-called arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)—could therefore become a key lever for more sustainable agriculture.
Mycorrhizal fungi depend on plants as partners to survive. They form a connection with the plant’s root system in the soil and receive carbohydrates and fatty acids from the plant. In return, the plant obtains essential nutrients from the fungus—acting as a natural fertilizer that promotes growth. Although the growth-promoting potential of mycorrhizal fungi is well known, their effects under practical field conditions and their interactions with crops have not yet been thoroughly studied. Moreover, mycorrhizal fungi form complex partnerships with bacteria. The properties and benefits of these “multi-kingdom cooperations” are still largely unexplored.
«Our knowledge of soil biodiversity and its role in the functioning of agricultural and natural ecosystems is still incomplete. It is therefore essential to find ways to enrich soils with good humus.»
Prof. Dr. Marcel van der Heijden, Professor of Agroecology and Plant–Microbe Interactions at UZH and Head of the Plant–Soil Interactions Research Group at Agroscope
Initial pilot studies with corn have shown that “vaccinating” soil with AMF makes plants more resilient to environmental stress and improves nutrient uptake. The research project led by UZH Professor Marcel van der Heijden now aims to test this effect in large-scale field trials with various key crops. In parallel, further beneficial microbial consortia are being developed and tested in greenhouse experiments. The long-term goal is to develop a commercial product that can be broadly applied in agriculture. To ensure that the process is embedded in sustainable agricultural practices in Switzerland, the researchers are collaborating with agricultural stakeholders and companies from the outset and maintaining a dialogue with policymakers.
The project is part of the interdisciplinary One Health research field, which recognizes that human health is closely linked to the health of animals, plants, and the environment. Building on this concept, the project seeks to promote resilient plants, reduce environmentally harmful pesticides, and improve soil quality as the foundation for healthy food chains. Professor van der Heijden’s approach expands the One Health framework by highlighting the central role of soil health and microbial diversity for the wellbeing of plants, humans, and animals. The project has the potential to make a significant impact on Swiss agriculture: projections suggest that, in addition to environmental benefits, it could generate additional revenue of CHF 50–100 million per year.
Support research at UZH in the field of sustainability. This innovative project seeks natural solutions to make agriculture both productive and sustainable—while reducing the use of pesticides.
