Agri-nanotechnology for sustainable agriculture

Abstract

An interdisciplinary field like nanotechnology is exhaustively being explored for its benefits for the welfare of society. The encouraging outcomes in various fields paved a new scope for utilization of nanotechnology in the agri-sector also. The green revolution led to the uncontrolled use of agrochemicals, which on the one hand resulted in an increase in the productivity, but on the other hand has severe adverse effects on soil diversity and aquatic ecosystems and has negative impacts on the health of people growing and consuming these chemical-laden agriproducts. Nanotechnology emerges as a resourceful front in current agripractices and is expected to become a key strength through new inventions. As a result, the amalgamation of nanotechnology with agriculture results in enhanced productivity, better pest and weed management, and reduced health implications to soil, water, and people, though a lot of safety, toxicity, risk assessment, and risk management issues still remain unsettled lagging behind the broad application of nanotechnology in agriculture. This chapter will talk about the green synthesis, applications of nanotechnology in agriculture and agro-economy, uncertainties, risks, and ethical concerns related to agri-nanotechnology.