Summary
This narrative review examines recent advances in nanotechnology-based agrochemicals as a response to agricultural pollution and unsustainability caused by conventional chemical fertilisers and pesticides. The authors discuss the transformative potential of nanoscale formulations (nanofertilisers, nanopesticides, nanosensors) in improving input efficiency and crop performance, whilst identifying critical gaps in understanding nanomaterial safety, environmental exposure pathways, and human health repercussions. The paper emphasises the need for evidence-based policy regulation and commercialisation frameworks before wide-scale deployment.
UK applicability
UK agricultural policy increasingly prioritises sustainable intensification and reduced chemical inputs, making nano-agrochemical innovations potentially relevant. However, the review's emphasis on knowledge gaps regarding nanomaterial safety and toxicity aligns with UK and European regulatory caution; any adoption would require robust environmental risk assessment and alignment with UK pesticide and fertiliser approval frameworks.
Key measures
Not a primary research study; review of nanotechnology applications in agriculture, nanomaterial safety concerns, environmental and human health exposure levels, and regulatory frameworks
Outcomes reported
The review synthesised recent advances in nanotechnology-based agrochemicals (nanofertilisers, nanopesticides, nanosensors, nanoformulations) and their applications for improving agricultural input efficiency and crop productivity. The paper identified implementation barriers, commercialisation potential, and gaps in policy regulation for assessing safety and toxicological risks of nano-agricultural products.
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