Chapter 7 - Nanofertilizer and nanopesticides: a new frontier in agricultural development

Abstract

The agricultural sector is under constant pressure to improve crop productivity and quality to meet the food demands of the growing population. The lack of essential plant nutrients in the soil and pests causes significant reductions in crop yield and quality. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are commonly used to overcome this situation. Although they increase crop productivity and quality, they pose a significant threat to the environment and human health; they are able to contaminate soil and aquatic resources and may remain in small amounts in food products. In addition, chemical fertilizers and pesticides are costly, making the farmers economically vulnerable. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop environmentally friendly fertilizers and pesticides by utilizing new technologies to increase crop productivity and quality to face the environmental problems and provide a cheaper solution. Nanotechnology can overcome all inadequacies by efficiently delivering pesticides and fertilizers using nano-based formulations. Thus, it enhances crop productivity and quality, alleviates toxicity, and minimizes the cost by reducing the frequency of application, thereby supporting sustainable agriculture. Here, we focus mainly on the types of nanofertilizers and nanopesticides and their potential benefits in the agriculture sector.