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In recent years, the modern agriculture system is facing the dual challenge of meeting food security goals due to the growing world population and the increasing demand for sustainable processes. More precisely, on one hand, it is expected to use efficient agricultural solutions that can boost productivity, which in turn, can meet the growing food demand. On the other hand, agriculture should be eco-friendly and follow farming practices that protect human health and the environment.

To accommodate growing food demand due to the ever-increasing population worldwide, agricultural systems have adopted various unsustainable practices to obtain higher yields. It includes the extensive use of chemicals. As a result, multiple global issues have emerged such as climate change, soil degradation, soil erosion, water and soil pollution and loss of biodiversity. Organic farming has emerged as a great alternative that can help in meeting sustainable agriculture and food security goals.

Removal of excess crop material is an integral part of the agricultural system worldwide as it is essential to prepare the soil for new seeds and enables better weed and pest control. In India, rice harvesting is about to begin in different regions such as Punjab and Haryana, and farmers are engaged in managing the rice straw or stubble.

Every year, farmers generally choose the stubble burning method to clear the crop residue as it is less expensive and less labour-intensive, eventually leading to rising air pollution levels in the region. However, better agro-waste management and sustainable farming practices can help in overcoming this challenge.

Nutrients play a vital role in the growth and development of plants. As plant growth happens, the nutrient requirement also increases. Plants generally depend on nutrients available in the soil. Also, fertilizers are used to supply these essential nutrients for plant growth. However, it is important to note that excess nutrients, as well as deficiency of it, can impact crop production and inhibit growth.

The agricultural system at any location across the world is strongly influenced by the climate. The farming communities generally adapt and deal with local weather conditions by following certain farming practices, adopting infrastructure and using their experience. However, the problem of climate change and its consequences are expected to severely impact agriculture and threaten to disrupt the established systems.

The population explosion has always been a major challenge in India. The rapid urbanization, better lifestyle and the increased food consumption pattern today has led to a rise in food demand in the country. Therefore, increased food output is essential to maintain food security and meet consumer demand. It was precisely for this reason why the Green Revolution was introduced in the 1960s. Farming saw the adoption of modern methods, technology and extensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, to boost crop yield. However, such intensification of agriculture led to the loss of soil fertility, pollution of soil, water and air and adversely affected human health and the environment.

Today, fertilizers are considered as an integral part of modern agriculture. One of the reasons why fertilizers are extensively used is because they provide important nutrients for better plant growth and crop productivity. However, the overuse of fertilizers has deeply affected the environment in myriad ways. It also threatens to impact human health.

Bangladesh, has a chiefly an agrarian economy where rice is the dominant crop. The climatic condition in Bangladesh also enables the year-round production of rice. Thus, rice is an integral part of the dietary culture and the main source of nutrition for the people. Also, rice production is the major source of income in rural areas.

If you are someone who is stuck at home due to the pandemic, it is possible that you are cooking more than ever before. Consequently, you must be generating an extensive amount of food waste too. Instead of throwing the waste for dumping on landfills, you can turn it into a useful resource through composting.