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Nano-Agrochemicals as Substitutes for Pesticides: Prospects and Risks

Research Authors
Shehbaz Ali, Naveed Ahmad, Mudasir A. Dar, Sehrish Manan, Abida Rani, Suliman Mohammed Suliman Alghanem, Khalid Ali Khan, Sivasamy Sethupathy, Noureddine Elboughdiri, Yasser S. Mostafa, Saad A. Alamri, Mohamed Hashem, Muhammad Shahid, and Daochen Zhu
Research Abstract

This review delves into the mesmerizing technology of nano-agrochemicals, specifically
pesticides and herbicides, and their potential to aid in the achievement of UN SDG 17, which aims to
reduce hunger and poverty globally. The global market for conventional pesticides and herbicides is
expected to reach USD 82.9 billion by 2027, growing 2.7% annually, with North America, Europe, and
the Asia–Pacific region being the biggest markets. However, the extensive use of chemical pesticides
has proven adverse effects on human health as well as the ecosystem. Therefore, the efficacy, mechanisms,and
environmental impacts of conventional pesticides require sustainable alternatives for
effective pest management. Undoubtedly, nano-agrochemicals have the potential to completely transform
agriculture by increasing crop yields with reduced environmental contamination. The present
review discusses the effectiveness and environmental impact of nanopesticides as promising strategies
for sustainable agriculture. It provides a concise overview of green nano-agrochemical synthesis
and agricultural applications, and the efficacy of nano-agrochemicals against pests including insects
and weeds. Nano-agrochemical pesticides are investigated due to their unique size and exceptional
performance advantages over conventional ones. Here, we have focused on the environmental risks
and current state of nano-agrochemicals, emphasizing the need for further investigations. The review
also draws the attention of agriculturists and stakeholders to the current trends of nanomaterial use
in agriculture especially for reducing plant diseases and pests. A discussion of the pros and cons of
nano-agrochemicals is paramount for their application in sustainable agriculture.

Research Date
Research Journal
Plants
Research Publisher
MDPI
Research Rank
article
Research Vol
13
Research Website
https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/13/1/109
Research Year
2023
Research Pages
109