article · Discover Nano
Functional nanomaterials offer mechanisms to advance agricultural productivity, resource management, and ecological sustainability. Key applications include nano-formulated agrochemicals, slow-release fertilisers, and nanosensors, which improve the efficiency of fertilisers and pesticides while reducing chemical runoff. Such materials support superior nutrient absorption and better water conservation across farming systems. Furthermore, methods such as nano-priming improve seed germination rates and bolster plant resilience against drought conditions, while specialized nanosensors provide accurate, continuous surveillance of crop and soil conditions. Although these technologies demonstrate substantial commercial promise, broader deployment faces notable barriers concerning safety, environmental consequences, and regulatory compliance. Overcoming these hurdles requires thorough safety testing alongside standardised risk assessment frameworks to facilitate the responsible adoption of nanotechnology in sustainable farming operations.
Modern agriculture faces the twin challenges of maintaining high food production and minimising environmental degradation. Functional nanomaterials provide potential solutions by delivering nutrients and protective chemicals more efficiently, reducing waste, and safeguarding crops against drought. However, establishing standardised safety and regulatory protocols is vital to ensure that these technologies do not introduce unforeseen ecological hazards into food production systems.
Potential applications include nano-enabled fertilisers, crop-protection formulations, seed treatments, and diagnostic nanosensors for farmers and agribusinesses. While the commercial opportunities are recognised as promising, the technologies face hurdles related to ecological safety and uncertain regulatory frameworks. Consequently, real-world commercialisation depends on the establishment of standardised risk assessments, positioning these innovations at a stage requiring regulatory clearance and safety verification prior to widespread market entry.
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The integration of nanotechnology in agriculture offers a transformative approach to improving crop yields, resource efficiency, and ecological sustainability. This review highlights the application of functional NM, such as nano-formulated agrochemicals, nanosensors, and slow-release fertilizers, which enhance the effectiveness of fertilizers and pesticides while minimizing environmental impacts. By leveraging the unique properties of NM, agricultural practices can achieve better nutrient absorption, reduced chemical runoff, and improved water conservation. Innovations like nano-priming can enhance seed germination and drought resilience, while nanosensors enable precise monitoring of soil and crop health. Despite the promising commercial potential, significant challenges persist regarding the safety, ecological impact, and regulatory frameworks for nanomaterial use. This review emphasizes the need for comprehensive safety assessments and standardized risk evaluation protocols to ensure the responsible implementation of nanotechnology in agriculture.
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DOI: 10.1186/s11671-024-04144-z
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