Holistic view for the safe use of nanomaterials at permissible level for plant production

• Published in: Nanomaterials for Agriculture and Forestry Applications
• Main Author: Hua L.S.; Chen L.W.; Peng T.L.; Ling C.K.; Hao L.C.
• Format: Book chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2020
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85156119214&doi=10.1016%2fB978-0-12-817852-2.00010-X&partnerID=40&md5=401660711037964f8721efe136034d48

Nanomaterials are defined as materials that possess at least one of the external dimensions or internal structure within the size range of 1-100 nm. Over the past few years, nanotechnology and nanomaterials have been identified as potential tools in agricultural sector to regulate plant growth and improve its genetics as well as its use as pesticides and biosensors. The unique properties of nanomaterials have been employed to improve plant production via nano-sensors, nano-fertilizers, and nano-pesticides. Nanomaterials are very useful and vital owing to their unique physicochemical properties and wide range of applications in numerous sectors. Nevertheless, at the same time, it may impose some hazards and negative effects to human health, plants, and even environment. Therefore, specific legislations or guidance are necessary to make sure these materials will be applied safely or at a permissible level. This chapter discusses the types of application of nanomaterials in the agriculture sector and plant production. The potential impacts that might impose to the environment are also reviewed. Lastly, the existing regulations and policies in both EU and non-EU regions are also presented to provide an overview on the risk management and assessment of nanomaterials in agriculture sector. © 2020 Elsevier Inc.