Crop scientists think the newly-discovered protein could lead to ways to block the infection and grow rice using fewer pesticides.

Successful farming has long depended upon the right mixture of plants, seeds, soil, water, weather, and luck. Facing a future of growing population and diminishing resources, the prospect of sustainable agriculture and secure food supplies will require the added ingredients of compromise and cooperation, according to international agricultural specialists.

“What is one of the most important issues for our planet, which needs collaboration of people from every area?” asked Sung Hoon Kang of Harvard University, discussing the concept of sustainability as reflected in his award-winning photograph. In the image, tiny plastic fingers, each with a diameter 1/500th of a human hair, cradle a tiny green sphere, bringing to mind cooperative efforts across the world to promote the sustainability of the planet.