Recent research from UMass Amherst has highlighted the potential of Camelina sativa, a plant that not only produces oil for biofuels but also has the ability to absorb nickel from contaminated soil. Led by researcher Om Parkash Dhankher, the study focuses on enhancing Camelina's capabilities through the identification of nickel hyperaccumulation genes and proteins. This research is particularly significant as Odontarrhena, a known nickel hyperaccumulator, is slow-growing and invasive, making Camelina a more viable option for soil remediation. The ability of Camelina to be harvested two to three times within the same growing period further enhances its appeal as a sustainable crop. The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized the importance of this research, awarding a grant of $1,297,055 to support the study. The findings suggest that Camelina could potentially supply 20-30% of the U.S. nickel demand for the next 50 years, positioning it as a key player in both renewable energy and environmental sustainability efforts. [b48d12b9]