Can Research Reinvent Fertilizer? DOE Invests $36M to Find Out

DOE’s TEOSYNTE program funds $36M for low-emission fertilizer; CF and Nutrien accelerate green tech pivots to cut climate impact

15 Apr 2025

The US Department of Energy has launched a $36mn initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from fertilizer production, one of agriculture’s largest sources of climate pollution. The new program, known as TEOSYNTE, will fund research and development to lower the carbon footprint of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers used in crops such as corn and sorghum, which are central to the biofuel industry.

By focusing on cleaner production methods, the DOE aims to support both emission reduction goals and the wider transition to sustainable farming. “This is a transformational moment,” said a DOE spokesperson. “Through TEOSYNTE, we are rethinking the entire fertilizer lifecycle, from how it is produced to how it is applied in the field, with a focus on climate, efficiency, and innovation.”

Industry leaders have already begun to align with the government’s push. CF Industries, one of the world’s largest ammonia producers, announced in April 2025 a joint venture with Japan’s JERA and Mitsui to develop a low-carbon ammonia facility powered by clean hydrogen and renewable energy. Nutrien is also advancing technology to curb emissions as part of its long-term sustainability strategy.

Producers and policymakers see the effort as both a challenge and an opportunity. Cleaner fertilizer could help farmers comply with future climate regulations and improve soil resilience, though questions remain about cost and field performance. Companies have called for consistent policy frameworks and financial incentives to ensure early adoption.

Other fertilizer makers, including Mosaic, are developing low-emission products for sustainability-focused farms and ethanol producers seeking to reduce their carbon intensity. Analysts say the growing focus on “climate-smart” agriculture could strengthen US competitiveness in global food and energy markets.

TEOSYNTE is part of a broader wave of public–private collaboration aimed at integrating clean energy technologies into traditional industries. While fertilizers are the immediate target, officials suggest the program’s innovations could have wider applications across the food and energy supply chains.

The coming years will determine whether these pilot projects can scale commercially. For now, the DOE’s investment signals a strategic commitment to decarbonising one of agriculture’s most emissions-intensive sectors.