Abstract
In modern agriculture, the extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers has significantly increased crop yields but has also led to severe environmental pollution and ecological crises. With the rapid advancement of gene editing technology, innovative solutions for promoting sustainable agricultural development have emerged. This paper systematically explores the potential applications of gene editing technology in reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers and thoroughly analyzes its positive impacts on the agricultural environment. By editing genes related to nitrogen use efficiency, the application of nitrogen fertilizers can be significantly reduced, thereby mitigating the risk of water and soil pollution. Additionally, gene editing technology enhances crop resistance to pests and diseases, fundamentally decreasing pesticide usage and minimizing its harmful effects on the ecosystem and human health. Furthermore, by improving crop adaptability to stress conditions such as drought or salinity, gene editing technology helps reduce reliance on fertilizers and irrigation resources. Despite its promising prospects in agriculture, the promotion of this technology faces multiple challenges, including technical bottlenecks, ethical controversies, and regulatory constraints. This paper reviews the latest research progress in the application of gene editing technology in agriculture, focusing on its potential value in environmental protection and sustainable agricultural development, providing theoretical support and reference for related research and practice.
