Fig. 1

Graphical representation of the significance of suberin in plant performance (plant function context), belowground C inputs (ecosystem and biogeochemistry context) and valorization of C in biomass for bio-derived energy and materials (economic context). Greater throughput and accuracy in suberin analytical technologies and a greater understanding of molecular controls of suberin biosynthesis pathways are needed to enable informed and sustainable crop improvement strategies and realize a circular carbon-neutral bioeconomy