15 - Sustainable nanotechnology for human resource development

Abstract

The advent of nanotechnology can be considered the new industrial revolution. The uses of engineered nanomaterials, with diameters less than 100nm, are infinite. Nanotechnology has been applied for advanced applications such as water purification, bioremediation, cancer treatment, gene therapy, and industry. An important use of nanomaterials is in the formulations of botanical insecticides, where these formulated nanoparticles (NPs) consist of active principles that have potential for increasing agriculture productivity. Despite the infinite scope of applications of nanomaterials, their use may lead to adverse impacts on environment and human health. NPs toxicology effects were studied in laboratories, and result was that high doses of NPs affect immunity of organisms that causes respiratory diseases and swelling in body. Cationic NPs can rupture plasma membranes and affect the lipid bilayer of cell membrane. The interactions of NPs with living membranes result in hazardous effects. It was proven that citrate-capped gold NPs with a 13-nm diameter have toxic effects on lungs. Silver NPs of 5–25nm reduce the growth in Sorghum bicolor. In order to overcome the harmful effects of NPs, it is important that a proper assessment of the ill effects of nanomaterials is carried out and effective solutions are suggested. A possible solution is to implement sustainable nanotechnology that is based on eco-friendly nanomaterials, for example, chitosan NPs. These particles have reduced risk on the ecosystem health. The present review discusses the various aspects of nanotechnology, such as history, types, characteristics, and wide applications of nanomaterials in farming sector. The current chapter provides information on the various advanced applications of nanotechnology, the possible harmful effects of nanomaterials, various methods used in the formation of chitosan NPs, and laws and policies for the reduction of the toxic effects of nanotechnology.