Plant life

The conversion of atmospheric carbon dioxide and sunlight into energy-rich carbohydrates through photosynthesis is one of the most important processes on Earth – and one on which we all depend. Photosynthesis is the fundamental mechanism underlying plant growth and productivity and, thus, energy and mass exchange. Because plant growth and productivity require the availability of nutrients and water, in addition to adequate sunlight and warmth, variations in these conditions affect photosynthetic rates and are, therefore, reflected as changes in plant productivity.