To revolutionize sustainable agriculture practices, the Electron Microscopy and Nanoscience Lab (EMN-Lab) at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) recently executed a collaborative meeting with Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada. The discussion focused on "Nanoengineering Aspects for Sustainable Agriculture," aiming to pave the way for joint research endeavors.
The convergence brought together esteemed personalities including Dr Gurpreet Singh Selopal from Dalhousie University, Canada, and key figures from PAU, including Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, the Director of Research, Dr Charanjeet Singh Aulakh, the Dean of the College of Agriculture, Dr Dhanwinder Singh, the Head of the Department of Soil Science, alongside other experts from the EMN Lab.
Self-Powered Greenhouses
Dr Gosal explained the need to develop self-powered greenhouses utilizing poly sheets embedded with nanocrystals. These nanocrystals effectively concentrate light towards the edges of greenhouse windows, where strategically placed solar panels harness this energy, rendering the greenhouse self-sustainable. He highlighted the transformative impact such technology could have on farmers in both nations, highlighting the importance of independent optimization tailored to each location's specific needs.
Dr Aulakh echoed this sentiment, stressing the indispensable role of nanoscience technologies in fortifying sustainable agriculture practices, particularly in facilitating the transition towards cleaner and greener energy sources.
Dr Selopal delivered a captivating talk on "Nanoengineering – A Future to the Sustainable World," highlighting the challenges posed by conventional energy sources and presenting nanomaterial-based solutions, notably in the realm of solar energy efficiency. He explained advanced sustainable agricultural technologies such as utilizing nanocrystals to harvest electrical energy via solar panels and Nano formulations of fertilizers, showcasing the immense potential for innovation in this field.
The meeting facilitated insightful discussions on the prospects of future collaboration between the two universities, poised to catalyze a monumental leap in sustainable agricultural practices. By synergizing expertise and resources, the envisioned partnership holds promise in addressing pressing agricultural challenges while ushering in a new era of sustainability and resilience in farming communities worldwide.
