Agro-Nanotechnology: Advancements and Challenges in Nanofertilizers for Sustainable Agriculture

Agro-nanotechnology is an emerging field that integrates nanotechnology into agricultural practices, offering innovative solutions to enhance crop productivity and sustainability. The focus on nanofertilizers is driven by their potential to improve nutrient uptake, reduce environmental impact, and support precision and sustainable agriculture. Despite these promising attributes, the field of agro-nanotechnology faces challenges such as safety concerns, scalability, and regulatory hurdles. The efficacy of nanofertilizers in improving crop yields and soil health has been demonstrated, yet there remains a need for comprehensive research to address the environmental and economic implications. Current efforts are directed towards understanding the interactions between nanofertilizers and the agricultural ecosystem, but gaps persist in translating laboratory findings into practical applications. This necessitates a deeper investigation into the synthesis, characterization, and application of nanofertilizers to fully harness their potential for sustainable agriculture.

This research topic aims to explore the advancements and challenges associated with nanofertilizers in sustainable agriculture. It seeks to answer critical questions regarding the synthesis methods, nutrient delivery mechanisms, and environmental interactions of nanofertilizers. The research will also explore to the economic viability and policy implications of integrating nanofertilizers into mainstream agricultural practices. By compiling diverse contributions, the collection aims to advance the understanding of nanofertilizers' role in promoting sustainable and precision farming.

To gather further insights in the transformative role of nanotechnology in agriculture, we welcome original research, review articles, mini-reviews, perspective, articles and brief research reports addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Highlight advancements in nano fertilizer development and application technologies.
- Explore the sustainability of nano fertilizers in reducing environmental footprints.
- Address challenges such as safety, scalability, and regulatory issues.
- Bridge the research-industry gap through collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Discuss policy implications and regulatory frameworks for nano fertilizers.
- Offer a global perspective on the adoption and benefits of nano fertilizers.
- Provide insights into future directions and potential breakthroughs in the field.
- Synthesis methods: Novel approaches and techniques for synthesizing nano fertilizers and exploring innovative nano formulations.
- Nano fertilizer characterization: Advanced analytical methods for characterizing the physicochemical properties of nano fertilizers.
- Nutrient management: Mechanisms and enhancements in nutrient delivery, uptake, controlled release kinetics, and retention.
- Crop responses: Evaluation of the impact of nano fertilizers on crop performance.
- Environmental health: Assessments of nano fertilizers on the soil environment and ecosystem.
- Sustainable and precision agriculture: Applications of nano fertilizers in precision and sustainable agriculture.
- Economic viability: Economic analyses, and barriers to the widespread adoption of nano fertilizers.
- Future perspectives: Global insights based on interdisciplinary knowledge into future research directions, technological advancements, safety concerns, challenges, and regulatory and policy considerations.

Keywords: nanotechnology and agriculture, agrifood, nanofertilizers, sustainability, nanotechnology, nanomaterials

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.