PAID ACCESS | Published on : 25-May-2026 | Pages: 21-36 |
Sustainable agriculture has become essential for optimum food supply in a growing population and minimizing environmental damage. Nanotechnology has the potential for many solutions for sustainable agriculture. It is a science that benefits at the nanoscale. Research on modern nanotechnology-based nanofertilizers shows their ability to enhance crop production, improve the use efficiency of nutrients, and also maintain environmental sustainability. The established research suggested that nanofertilizers have the potential of around 25-50% to substitute the conventional fertiliser for crop production, furthermore reducing the environmental pollution compared to conventional fertiliser. The technology also provides better nutrient use, i.e. approximately 30%, and also enhances crop yields by around 20% over inorganic fertilisers. This chapter will explicate the principles of nanotechnology, characteristics of nanomaterials and its production techniques. Aside from this, we cover the nanofertilizers, their controlled release mechanisms, application techniques, absorption pathways, as well as impact on crops, soil, and the environment. We examined the influence of nanofertilizers on crop yield and soil health using research data and case studies. Considering the fact that in an era where environmental issues are paramount, nano-agrochemicals can cut 27–35% greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve physical properties of soil through nanoclays and hydrogels fulfilling rising food demand while maintaining a sustainable environment. This chapter basically bridges the gap between molecular-scale nutrient delivery and macro scale food security by replacing bulk inputs and offers a fresh perspective by framing nanotechnology not just as yield booster but as a critical tool for soil health restoration reversing the damage caused by decades of conventional chemical overuse.
Crop productivity, Environment, Nanofertilizers, Nanotechnology, Plant nutrition
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