2025, Vol. 8, Issue 3, Part D

author(s)
Yenda Damodhara Rao, Akhilesh Chandrapati, Amit Mandlik, Panuganti Vaishnavi, Aditi Thakur, Paritosh Tripathi and Jehani Muljibhai Dajabhai

abstract
Nanoparticles are tiny particles with dimensions ranging from 1 to 100 nanometres (nm). Due to their small size, they exhibit unique physical, chemical, and biological properties that differ from bulk materials of the same composition. In recent years, nanotechnology has gained significant attention due to its vast applications across various fields. As the surface area of nanostructures increases, their efficiency and applicability also improve. One of the emerging areas of research is the integration of nanotechnology into agriculture, which has led to the development of nano-fertilizers, nano-herbicides, nano-fungicides, nano-pesticides, and nano-insecticides, collectively known as nano-agrochemicals. This innovative approach offers promising solutions for pest management by enhancing the effectiveness of pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. The global market for conventional pesticides and herbicides is projected to reach USD 82.9 billion by 2027, growing at an annual rate of 2.7%, with North America, Europe, and the Asia–Pacific region being the dominant markets. However, the excessive use of chemical pesticides has been linked to adverse effects on human health and the ecosystem, necessitating the search for sustainable alternatives. Nano-agrochemicals present a transformative opportunity in agriculture by improving crop yields while minimizing environmental contamination. This review explores the effectiveness and environmental impact of nanopesticides as a promising strategy for sustainable agriculture. It provides an overview of green nano-agrochemical synthesis, their applications in agriculture, and their efficiency in controlling pests such as insects and weeds. Due to their unique size and exceptional performance, nano-agrochemicals offer significant advantages over conventional pesticides. However, concerns regarding their environmental risks and long-term implications necessitate further research. This review aims to engage agriculturists and stakeholders by highlighting the latest trends in nanomaterial applications in agriculture, particularly in reducing plant diseases and pests. A comprehensive discussion of the advantages and limitations of nano-agrochemicals is crucial to understanding their role in sustainable agriculture.