Nanotechnology and its potential application in forest and forest-based industries: A review Wagay Oyais Ahmad, Khan Shaista, Rafeeq Jauhar, Pala Nazir A.*, Bhat G.M., Dutt Vaishnu, Peerzada Ishtiyak Ahmad, Malik A.R., Sofi P.A., Mushtaq Tahir, Mugloo J.A. Faculty of Forestry, Benhama Ganderbal, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, 190 025, Jammu and Kashmir (India) *e-mail: nazirpaul@gmail.com
Online Published on 28 December, 2023. Abstract Nanotechnology is an important and rapidly growing area of study and development, where a unique phenomenon offers innovative applications. Nanotechnology around the world is applied in various fields like agriculture, health, environment, forestry etc. In forestry, the technology provides solution to many forest-related problems and it is utilised for improving and protecting wood quality, extinguishing forest fires, successful seed germination, and effective herbal medication delivery. Some forest resources are also source of nanoparticles, which can also be used for further improvement of various forestry sectors. Although nanotechnology has significant potential in the field of forestry as an enabling technology, the future directions and requirements of applying nanotechnology in the forestry sector are still in their infancy, particularly in India. Therefore, this paper discusses the basic concept of nanotechnology and its potential applications both in forest and forest based industries. The paper also presents deep insights into the techniques of using nanotechnology for forest monitoring and management. Additionally, by merging biotechnology with nanotechnology, disease-resistant plant types, dormancy-breaking seeds, root-enhancers, and pathogen-eradication techniques can be developed. Nanotechnology may be applied on a large scale by facilitating technical and legal institutions, large R&D grants, and research collaborations in forestry research. Top Keywords Agriculture, Forestry, Nano-fertilizers, Nanotechnology. Top |