Nanotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture
Abstract Nanotechnology is an exciting new domain of research and technology development at nanoscale, which finds several exciting applications in agricultural science. Sustainable agriculture is the key for survival of mankind in the future, which involves holistic management of crops, livestock, and fisheries to make the farming system self sustaining for a long period. Applications of nanotechnology to such sustainable processes can enable improved plant growth, soils and microbial stabilization, targeted application of chemicals and better plant and farmyard animal management, food processing, and rural waste management. No other technological advance can possibly integrate to multiple activities of sustainable agriculture so effectively with compatible sustainable practices. The legal and policy frameworks on nanotechnological innovations should consider potential benefits of nanotechnology in sustainable agricultural practices. However, the environmental safety concerns of widespread nanoparticle use should be carefully examined before large scale application of such technologies.