Review of Green Technologies Use by Farmers: Implications for Environmental Sustainability in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The study reviewed green technologies used by farmers. It specifically reviewed what green technology is all about in farming; green technologies used by farmers and its role on environmental sustainability and challenge to use of green technology in farming. Materials and Methods: The author reviewed books, journals, bulletin theses, dissertations, research reports etc. Results: Findings show that solar photovoltaic, wind energy, biofuel, biogas, biomass, organic farming, integrated pest management, mixed farming, etc. are the most common green technologies use by farmers in Nigeria. The findinds further showed that the adverse effect of conventional technology and modern farming practice on the natural environment were environmental degradation, global warming, climate change, reduction in biodiversity, destruction of soil health and natural habitat, economic loss to farmers, which can be addressed by green technologies use with its potentials of healing damaged natural environments and ensuring profitability as cost of production is reduced by 67% and sustainability of environment in the production process. The benefits of green technologies are quality natural environment, healthy farm produce and sustainable biodiversity while challenges to its use are cost intensive, lack of technical know-how, illiteracy of the farmers, inadequate information on the potentials and limitation of its application. Green technology is the path of rapid agricultural development and welfare improvement as it increases profitability and health of farmers and guarantees environmental sustainability. The study recommends policy measures promoting use of green technologies by farmers for environmental sustainability and profit maximization.