Nanotechnology - a new step forward in sustainable agricultural production

In the context of climate change, soil degradation, pests and food safety pressures, Vietnamese agriculture is looking for new solutions to increase productivity without sacrificing the environment. Nanotechnology, with material particles measuring only a few tens to a few hundred nanometers, is becoming one of the potential approaches to help agriculture move to a greener and more sustainable development phase.

The first advantage of nanotechnology is the ability to optimize resources. Nanofertilizers, thanks to their large surface area and ability to release nutrients in a regulated manner, help plants absorb more efficiently, limiting leaching and loss.

By delivering nutrients to the exact “address” where they are needed, farmers can reduce the amount of fertilizer they use while still achieving high yields. This not only saves money, but also reduces pressure on land and water resources, two factors that are severely compromised in conventional agriculture .

Revolutionizing agriculture with nanoparticles.

Nanotechnology also opens up new approaches in plant protection. Nano pesticides have good adhesion, slow release and attack the right pathogens. Thanks to that, the effectiveness of killing fungi and bacteria increases, while the amount of chemicals released into the environment is significantly reduced. Some nano preparations also work by biological mechanisms, are less toxic to humans and beneficial organisms, in line with the current orientation of organic agriculture and safe production.

Nano is not only used to protect crops, but is also used in seed treatment and growth enhancement. Treating seeds with nano solution helps increase germination rate, stimulates stronger root development, and helps plants withstand drought or depleted soil conditions better. In production areas that are often affected by extreme weather, this is a solution that helps stabilize productivity and avoid crop risks.

Another trend that is attracting attention is the application of nano in agricultural product preservation. Preservative coatings made of biological nanomaterials have antibacterial and anti-mold properties, extending the freshness of fruits and vegetables without affecting product quality. This is an important step forward in reducing post-harvest losses, which has been a weakness of Vietnamese agriculture for many years. When the preservation time is extended, farmers can be more proactive in consumption, avoiding the situation of "good harvest, low price".

At the same time, nanosensors are opening up new opportunities for smart agriculture. Microscopic sensors can measure moisture, pH, nutrient levels or detect signs of disease right in the soil. Real-time information allows growers to adjust irrigation, fertilization or plant care more precisely, something that manual methods, often based on experience, are having trouble meeting in the context of increasingly unpredictable climate fluctuations.

However, nanotechnology also poses serious requirements for management and standards. No matter how effective nanomaterials are, they need to be strictly controlled, because widespread use without supervision can cause residues, affecting the soil ecosystem and the food chain. This requires coordination between scientists , product manufacturers and management agencies to establish a clear legal framework, ensuring safety for people and the environment.

Another challenge is farmer accessibility. Nanotechnology cannot be effective if it remains in the laboratory. Training, guidance and technology transfer must go hand in hand with actual production. When farmers understand how to use it, the dosage, when to apply it and the benefits are proven in practice, the new technology can become a production tool rather than just a trend.

Although there is still room for improvement, nanotechnology is offering a positive outlook for the future of Vietnamese agriculture: fewer chemicals, less waste, more efficiency and sustainability. These tiny materials may not change agriculture overnight, but they open the way for farmers, scientists and the economic community to work towards a common goal: green production, safe for consumers and friendly to the environment.

As agriculture becomes not only about increasing productivity but also about conserving resources, nanotechnology becomes one of the keys to sustainable progress.

Center for Science and Technology Communication

Source: https://mst.gov.vn/cong-nghe-nano-buoc-tien-moi-trong-san-xuat-nong-nghiep-ben-vung-197251130153912631.htm