Use of nanotechnology for safe agriculture and food production: Challenges and limitations
Andrés Rodríguez-Seijo, Vanesa Santás-Miguel, Daniel Arenas-Lago, Manuel Arias‐Estévez, Paula Pérez‐Rodríguez
Abstract
Nanotechnology offers promising perspectives for revolutionizing agriculture by enhancing productivity and sustainability. Although the global agricultural nanotechnology market was valued at US$ 352.4 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach US$ 868.9 billion by 2031, concerns about adverse environmental effects persist. This review summarizes the latest developments and perspectives of nanotechnology applied to agriculture, highlighting both advancements and potential impacts on soil ecosystems. However, concerns regarding regulatory measures, economic viability, and scalability hinder its widespread adoption. Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial to establishing effective frameworks for the safe and responsible application of nanotechnology in agriculture. Despite these concerns, nanotechnology holds great promise for addressing emerging challenges in agriculture and advancing toward more sustainable and efficient practices.