Embodiment of Nanobiotechnology in Agriculture: An Overview

Abstract

Agriculture is facing tremendous challenges in achieving the desired yield because of various factors such as anthropogenic activities, climate change, soil degradation, mal-agricultural practices, urbanization, and industrialization. To overcome these problems, nanotechnology is one of the most important tools in modern agriculture. It is anticipated to become a driving economic force in the near future. It provides new agrochemical agents, new delivery mechanisms for crop improvement, and promises to reduce dependency upon conventional agrochemicals. Nanotechnology can boost agricultural production through nano-formulations of agrochemicals used as nano-pesticides and nanofertilizers for crop improvement. These nano materials would release pesticides or fertilizers at a specific time and targeted location. Besides, nano-biosensors are used in crop protection for the identification of different plant diseases. Nanoparticles tagged to agrochemicals or other substances could reduce the damage to other plants and the amount of chemicals released into the environment. Moreover, integration of nanotechnology with biotechnology acts as an important tool for structural and genetic engineering. The present chapter will be focusing on nanobiotechnology, its applications, implications, smart delivery systems, and aspects that can improve the crop yield and influence the agriculture industry.