In a significant stride towards bolstering climate-resilient agriculture, researchers have compiled the first-ever global dataset for grain sorghum yields, spanning two decades from 2000 to 2020. This comprehensive dataset, published in ‘Data in Brief’ (translated as ‘Short Data’), focuses on temperate to subtropical regions and could be a game-changer for the energy sector, where sorghum is increasingly valued as a bioenergy crop.
Led by Mohsen Davoudkhani from Université Paris-Saclay, the study amassed data from eight countries—France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Mexico, the USA, China, and Australia—covering a staggering 85% of the world’s sorghum production in these regions. The dataset comprises 27,222 data points, including grain sorghum yield, harvested area, and production values, all recorded at various administrative levels.
“This dataset is a treasure trove for researchers and policymakers,” said Davoudkhani. “It provides a solid foundation for developing models that can predict sorghum yields under different climate scenarios, which is crucial for planning and adapting to future climate change.”
Sorghum’s heat tolerance and adaptability to hot and dry summers make it an attractive crop for bioenergy production, particularly in regions where climate change is expected to impact traditional energy crops. The dataset’s granularity, with data points averaged over specific administrative units, allows for precise modeling and analysis.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. With accurate yield predictions, energy companies can better plan their bioenergy feedstock supply chains, ensuring a steady and sustainable source of sorghum for biofuel production. Moreover, the dataset can support climate impact assessments and land-use studies, aiding in the development of policies that promote climate-resilient agriculture and bioenergy production.
“This research is not just about understanding the past; it’s about shaping the future,” added Davoudkhani. “By providing a comprehensive dataset, we’re enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions that can drive sustainable agricultural practices and bioenergy production.”
The dataset’s potential extends beyond the energy sector. It can be used to develop crop models, machine learning algorithms, and statistical models for predicting sorghum yields, supporting a wide range of applications from agricultural planning to environmental management.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, this dataset offers a valuable tool for building resilience in agriculture and the energy sector. By leveraging this data, stakeholders can work towards a more sustainable and secure future, where sorghum plays a pivotal role in the global bioenergy landscape.