Towards green nanotechnology: Maximizing benefits and minimizing harm

Abstract

The ultimate goal of any economic, technologicaland social development is to improve human health andwell-being. Thus, the society brings new requirements tonew technologies, moving towards clean and green technologydevelopment. Green nanotechnology, as a branch ofgreen technology, significantly contributes to environmentalsustainability by producing nanomaterials and nanoproductswithout harming human health and the environment, and byproducing nanoproducts that provide solutions to environmentalproblems as well. Green nanotechnology is based onthe existing principles of green chemistry and green engineering- it uses less materials and renewable inputs whereverpossible, and thereby saving energy and fuel. The mainbenefits of green nanotechnology are: increased energyefficiency, reduced waste and greenhouse gas emissions,and minimized the consumption of non-renewable raw materials.