1. Why is this Important? What I did References Outcome Acknowledgements
Using Harpin Proteins as an Alternative to Pesticides
Emma Amenkowicz
University of New Hampshire Manchester
Background
Harpin proteins were discovered and commercialized by the EDEN Bioscience Corporation
Naturally occurring, nontoxic, and biodegradable proteins produced by bacterial plant pathogens
Harpins trigger plants natural growth and defense systems when presented by disease or pests
Why is this Important?
It is estimated that $300 billion worth of crops are lost each year
Due to our growing population, and competitive agricultural systems, farmers must eliminate loss
Pesticides have traditionally been used to limit these economic losses
Pesticides have been related to numerous chronic and acute diseases
Cancers, ADHD, headaches, rashes, etc.
Pesticides have many adverse effects on the environment
Disrupted soil systems, harmful to other species, etc.
Harpin proteins are the necessary step for a healthier production of crops
Harpin based products are produced in a water based fermentation system
Byproducts are biodegradable and harmlessly disposable
Small amount of energy is used
No harsh solvents or reagents are used, and no hazardous waste is produced
Approximately 70% of product is a food-grade substance for plants
What I did
References
Visited the AP chemistry classes at Central High School and taught them about green chemistry and the benefits of harpin proteins
Students were involved during the lecture and were quizzed at the end
The Problem with Pesticides. (2015.). Retrieved from
ACS Green Chemistry Institute® - American Chemical Society. (n.d.). Retrieved September, 2016, from
Green Chemistry Principles
Prevention
Less hazardous chemical synthesis
Safer solvents and auxiliaries
Design for energy efficiency
Reduce derivatives
Design for degradation
Outcome
Harpins have been used successfully in more then 40 different crops
Protected against numerous bacterial, viral, and fungal disease
Some that pesticides cant protect against
No adverse effects on organisms tested
Mammals, birds, plants, fish, honey bees, invertebrates, algae, etc.
Due to their molecular nature harpins are easily degradable by UV and microorganisms
No potential for bioaccumulation or contamination
Acknowledgements
Thank you to Dr. Prescott and Mrs. Tourigny from Central for allowing me to visit her class.