Chapter 19 - Green synthesized nanomaterials for greener environment

Abstract

The complex interactions between development and environment urges to innovate novel technologies to achieve sustainability in all human activities in the contemporary world. Diverse new strategies are continuously being explored for the remediation of contaminants from water, soil, and air to make our environment clean. In this perspective, nanotechnology has grabbed massive consideration due to the higher reactivity and enhanced effectiveness. Silver nanomaterials, nanohybrid consisting silver and other metal oxide or polymeric compounds are well-known for their significant antimicrobial activity which is generally exploited for water disinfection. Gold or silver, iron based, functionalized silica nanoparticles, nanohybrid like Ag-doped TiO2 nanofibers, carbon nanotubes are utilized for the adsorption and catalytic degradation of toxic nitro aromatic compounds and dyes from industrial effluents, for the removal of heavy metal and fluoride from drinking water and as sensors for ultrasensitive detection of contaminants in water. But there is growing concern regarding potential health and environmental impacts for the productions and use of nanomaterials. Green synthesis strategy to produce safer nanomaterials plays crucial role reducing the toxicity compared to other classical procedures due to its eco-friendly nature. Microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, algae, yeasts, and even several plant sources often play active role in the area of green synthesis of nanoparticles and received great attention due to their diverse applications for the societal benefit aiming a greener environment tomorrow.