At MIT, postdoctoral researcher Giorgio Rizzo is pioneering the development of sustainable fertilizers designed to mitigate the environmental impact of conventional agricultural practices. Working in the Marelli Lab, Rizzo focuses on creating seed coatings from natural materials like chitin and chitosan, which enhance plant resilience against environmental stressors such as drought and heat. His research aims to reduce reliance on traditional NPK fertilizers, which are energy-intensive and harmful to soil health. Recently awarded a Kavanaugh Fellowship, Rizzo is committed to translating his lab research into market-ready products that are affordable for farmers. This initiative is crucial as many farmers are hesitant to switch from established fertilizers due to cost concerns. Rizzo's work not only seeks to improve crop yields but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture, aiming for a balance between productivity and environmental stewardship.