Technology and food security

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the global dilemma faced by humanity due to rising population pressures, constrained resources and related food security issues. The paper highlights the potential of information technology, biotechnology and nanotechnology in providing solutions to the problem of world hunger.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilizes past and contemporary research sources to estimate the potential of various technologies in improving the food security situation, cites past successes and identifies some consequences and constraints. The paper notes recent advances in science and technology of food production and the market and other institutional adjustments needed to fully realize their benefits.

Findings

The paper finds that the world greatly benefited from the green revolution during the course of the twentieth century. Additional gains to food production and food security will come from newer processes and techniques developed recently due to information technology, biotechnology and nanotechnology. It is important to educate people about these developments.

Practical implications

In order to optimally deploy the technologies, policies must be formulated for encouraging inventions, innovations and diffusion as well as strengthen the international intellectual rights regime.

Originality/value

This paper strives to look at the role of information technology, biotechnology and nanotechnology in improving food production and food security from an integrated perspective.

Citation

Kasturi, P. (2009), "Technology and food security", Humanomics, Vol. 25 No. 2, pp. 163-168. https://doi.org/10.1108/08288660910964210