Agricultural Innovation and Technology Adoption among Small-Scale Producers in Developing Countries: Is Biotechnology a Sustainable Alternative?

Biotechnology research and development (R&D) represent an alternative option in the field of agricultural innovation. However, their use and adoption are still important challenges, especially for small-scale producers. The purpose of the present study was to conduct a network analysis on agricultural technology and the following technological developments: Biofertilizers, biopesticides, and compost. The study of transgenic seeds was excluded due to the current debate in the field, characterized by two clearly opposing positions. The results show the main thematic clusters and nodes that allow for the mapping of knowledge production and research trends in this emerging area. We also present a discussion on the main ethical aspects (social, economic, technological, and environmental), as well as a series of public policy recommendations to guide R&D around the use and adoption of these technologies by small producers, especially in developing countries.