Nuclear Technology’s Role in Improving Agriculture and Food Security

Agriculture has always been a critical sector for human survival and economic stability. In recent years, innovative methods involving nuclear technology have significantly improved agricultural practices. Utilizing isotopes and radiation techniques in agriculture has proven effective in controlling pests and diseases, increasing crop production, protecting land and water resources, and ensuring food safety.

Here are five examples of how nuclear technologies are enhancing agriculture and food security globally.

Animal Health

Nuclear technologies have revolutionized the detection, control, and prevention of transboundary animal and zoonotic diseases. These diseases can have devastating impacts on livestock populations and human health. Techniques such as radioimmunoassay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) enable the precise detection of disease pathogens, facilitating rapid response and containment measures. This not only helps protect animal health but also safeguards human populations from zoonotic diseases.

Improved Soil and Water Management

Surprisingly, remnants of past nuclear fallouts have become invaluable tools for scientists studying soil health and erosion. Radioactive nuclides deposited after nuclear events can help assess soil erosion rates and overall soil quality. In Benin, for instance, the application of nuclear isotopes has revolutionized soybean cultivation. Scientists from the University of Abomey-Calavi and the National Agricultural Research Institute of Benin, in collaboration with the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre, introduced nitrogen-15 stable isotope fertilizer to monitor and enhance soil quality. This led to a substantial increase in soybean production, from 57,000 tonnes in 2009 to 220,000 tonnes in 2019, demonstrating the profound impact of nuclear technology on agriculture.

Insect Pest Management

The Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) is a nuclear-derived, environmentally friendly method for managing insect pests. SIT involves mass-rearing insects, sterilizing them using ionizing radiation, and releasing them into pest-infested areas. The sterilized insects cannot reproduce, leading to a decline in pest populations. This technique has been successfully implemented in Ecuador to eradicate the Mediterranean fruit fly, a significant agricultural pest. By releasing three million sterile flies weekly, Ecuador has maintained its ability to export fruit, valued at USD 22 million in 2019, demonstrating the effectiveness of SIT in pest control and economic sustainability.

Plant Breeding and Genetics

Nuclear technology plays a crucial role in crop breeding, enabling the development of improved varieties that can better adapt to climate change. Techniques such as irradiation with gamma rays, X-rays, or electron beams induce genetic mutations, increasing genetic diversity for breeding programs. In Sudan, a drought-resistant groundnut variety developed with FAO/IAEA support exemplifies this innovation. This new variety requires only 250 millimeters of rainfall annually, compared to the traditional 350 millimeters, and yields 27 percent more than conventional varieties. This advancement not only enhances food security but also supports Sudan’s economy.

Food Safety and Control

Nuclear techniques enhance food safety and quality control by detecting and eliminating harmful residues and contaminants in food products. Ionizing radiation, for instance, can kill harmful microbes in food, preventing foodborne illnesses. Food irradiation also prevents the spread of insect pests, facilitating the trade of fruits and vegetables across quarantine boundaries. In Viet Nam, research supported by FAO/IAEA has led to the establishment of 11 food irradiation facilities, processing an average of 200 tonnes of fresh export fruits per week using gamma and X-rays. This ensures the safety and quality of exported produce, bolstering food security and international trade.

The integration of nuclear technologies in agriculture presents immense opportunities to address current and future global challenges, ensuring sustainable development and food security for all.

(Data Source: FAO)