Core Viewpoint - The article discusses a groundbreaking technology developed by the Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, which enables the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into sugar through a synthetic pathway, bypassing traditional agricultural methods [1][5][24]. Summary by Sections Technology Overview - The new method allows for the conversion of CO₂ to methanol and then to sucrose, effectively circumventing the need for photosynthesis in plants [1][5]. - The energy consumption for this process is significantly lower, requiring only 2 ATP per sucrose compared to 37 ATP in natural pathways [6]. Conversion Efficiency - The conversion efficiency of the new method reaches 86%, with a yield of 5.7 g/L for sucrose [7]. - The research also enables the synthesis of starch and oligosaccharides from low-carbon molecules [10]. Process Steps - The conversion process consists of two main steps: 1. Converting CO₂ to C1 raw materials using existing technologies [13][14]. 2. Transforming C1 molecules into sucrose through an engineered biotransformation system, enhancing the catalytic efficiency of key enzymes by 3 to 71 times [15][18]. Implications - This technology could address significant global challenges such as climate change and food security by reducing the need for arable land and freshwater [31]. - The potential to synthesize essential carbohydrates directly from CO₂ could revolutionize food production and agricultural practices [26][28]. Future Prospects - If successful, this method could eliminate the need for traditional crop cultivation, allowing for the production of staple foods in a controlled environment [24][26]. - The research team aims to simulate the complex systems evolved by plants over millions of years, providing a sustainable alternative to current agricultural practices [29].

Core Insights - The article highlights the impressive advancements in China's agricultural breeding technology and industrialization, as observed by Evan Keil during his agricultural tour organized by JD Supermarket [1][3] - Keil's experience in China contrasts sharply with the high prices and limited availability of fresh fruits in the U.S., emphasizing the efficiency and affordability of Chinese agricultural products [3] Group 1: Agricultural Advancements - Evan Keil praised the rapid development of agricultural technology and modernization in China, which he found to be beyond his expectations [1] - He visited key agricultural production areas, including watermelon in Jiangsu, crayfish in Hubei, and lychee in Guangdong, witnessing firsthand the strength of China's agricultural industrialization [1] Group 2: E-commerce and Supply Chain - JD Supermarket's strategies, such as direct sourcing, large-scale procurement, and establishing warehouses at production sites, enable fresh agricultural products to reach consumers within 24 hours [3] - The company showcased its "100 Billion Agricultural Subsidy" initiative and launched the JD Base Plan, aiming to establish one million acres of agricultural bases in over 100 specialty product regions to promote high-quality rural industry development [3] Group 3: Consumer Benefits - JD Supermarket plans to invest 10 billion yuan over three years to optimize agricultural product prices by 20%, making high-quality fresh produce more accessible to consumers [3]