Paddy Straw Management: A Potential Approach to Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

Paddy straw is the vegetative part of rice plant which is left behind after harvesting the grains. It is the most abundant lignocellulosic waste material amounting to 731 million tons/year. Management of paddy straw remains a challenge in Asia where more rice is grown each year to meet rising hunger demands. The widespread burning of paddy straw in the open air is a major factor causing air pollution that is associated with a number of health issues. Researchers, engineers, and entrepreneurs are developing a range of possible solutions that turn paddy straw into a commodity with the help of which sustainable value chains can be built to benefit the environment. This waste to wealth approach can prove beneficial in the coming time. This review paper presents an overview of some efficient paddy straw management practices for the benefit of mankind and sustainable agriculture.