Nanotechnology and Sustainable Agriculture: Transforming Global Farming
摘要
Nanotechnology offers revolutionary options for redefining agricultural practices and tackling the issue of global food security while promoting environmental sustainability. This chapter focuses on the transformational applications of nanomaterials and nanodevices in modern agriculture, especially regarding resource use and enhancing crop performance. The most notable recent advancements in nano-enabled smart delivery systems remarkably controlled the release of agrochemicals, reducing contamination in the environment but maximizing nutrient uptake. In particular, nanosensors and nano-based diagnostic tools enable real-time monitoring of soil conditions, plant health, and pest infestations to allow more timely parental interventions and reduction of resource waste. The use of nano-formulated fertilizers is rising and showing up to 40% reductions in fertilizer application without affecting crop yields. Nano-based water treatment and soil remediation technologies provide sustainable solutions to water management and soil contamination. The need for ongoing assessments of the long-term environmental impacts and bioaccumulation of engineered nanomaterials is a critical concern that requires more attention. This study highlights the economic impacts and scalability challenges of using nanotechnology in agriculture across different socioeconomic contexts. Combining nanotechnology with sustainable agriculture could enhance food security and reduce environmental pollution, but careful attention to safety and regulation is essential for its broad implementation.