Previous researchers through conventional field observation methods had proved that to increase fertilizer input was the key measure to enhance soil carbon sequestration and crop yield-increasing.

After a lethal plant virus swept through this field trial in Tha Pra, Thailand, the GM papaya trees on the right stood hearty, while the conventional trees on the left fell sickly and fruitless.

Wheat farmers there traditionally plant winter wheat one year, leave the field fallow for a season, and use conventional tillage before the next wheat planting.