Biotechnology as the word suggests, is combination of biology and
technology.
It is basically the study of direct manipulation of biological life at a
fundamental level to produce substances which are very useful to the
human beings.
Oldest form of BIOtechnology
Biotechnology plays a main role in our everyday lives- from clothes we wear
to how we wash them, the food we eat to how we source then, the medicine
we take to treat our bodies, and even the fuel we use to move out vehicles.
Lets learn about its applications in the upcoming slide!!
Agricultural biotechnology is a collection of scientific techniques used to improve
plants, animals and microorganisms. Based on an understanding of DNA, scientists
have developed solutions to increase agricultural productivity. Starting from the ability
to identify genes that may confer advantages on certain crops, and the ability to work
with such characteristics very precisely, biotechnology enhances breeders’ ability to
make improvements in crops and livestock.
Biotechnology is widely used in different fields to modify and
produce a useful product for human benefits.
The application of Biotechnology in the field of agriculture is
known as Green Biotechnology or Green Revolution.
Biotechnology has contributed a lot to the field of
agriculture and they include:
• Organic agriculture
• Agro-chemical based agriculture
• Genetically engineered crop-based agriculture.
This modification leads to a number of advantages in the crops which include -
•There is less loss after harvest.
•The crops can be modified to have additional nutrients value for human
welfare.
•These crops are modified to be highly efficient, i.e, the high yield with less
usage of minerals.
• The decrease in the use of insecticides and pesticides which lead to pollution
in
the environment.
• More tolerance to the natural stresses like natural calamities, extreme
temperature and weather conditions, lack of water and minerals.
Another great example of biotechnology in agriculture is improving animal health and
breeding. Biotechnology is now being used in livestock production, which allows the
animals to grow faster with less food for better meat quality. It can even be used for
cloning. Animals that are resistant to diseases can also be bred using biotechnology.
By using biotechnology solutions, farmers can increase their production and improve
the quality of animal products.
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Biotechnology is useful in waste management and
controlling pollutants and energy production.
Waste Management: Industrial and food waste are
processed in enzyme bioreactors and subsequently
removed through the sewage system.
Bioremediation: Microorganisms are deliberately
introduced to water, soil, etc. to degrade the target
pollutants.