Nanoformulations for Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Risk Mitigation

Book excerpt: Nanotechnology research and its application in agriculture has become a major focus in recent years. Nanoformulations offer the possibility to develop more efficient and less damaging agrochemicals in the environment. Smart delivery systems for nanosensors, molecules that can help to detect biotic or abiotic stresses before they can affect production, are being developed and applied. Nanotechnology also provides new techniques for genetic manipulation and plant breeding. The use of nanoformulations in agriculture is increasingly being used to enhance food values, reduce agricultural inputs, improve nutrient contents and create a longer shelf life for many products. Nanotechnology is also being applied to many aspects of food security, disease treatment, new tools for pathogen detection, effective delivery systems and packaging materials. All of these applications are supposed to assist in addressing the needs of a growing population, and help in mitigating the effects of climate change and other ecological disturbances. This book highlights new applications of these nanoforms in the field of agricultural science, written by an international team of experts from across this broad discipline. It is essential reading for graduate students, researchers and practitioners involved in the application of nanotechnology in agriculture.