Environmental application of nanomaterials: A promise to sustainable future

Abstract The humans are directly in contact with nanomaterials either they are aware or not about nanotechnology. With passage of time, nanotechnology is offering new frontiers for the humanity and introducing new products in the anthroposphere. It has brought great revolution in the medical field for the detection and treatment of diseases. Nanoimaging, nerve nano-repair, neuro protection, nano-neuromodulation, nano-manipulation etc. are the blessings of nanotechnology. Based on their distinctive characteristics such as high reactivity, small size and large surface area, nanoparticles have promising benefits not only in medical field but also in many other areas. Recently, nanotechnology has emerged as a new frontier in modern agriculture. It is anticipated that nanotechnology may have a major thrust in near future by offering potential applications especially in the field of smart delivery systems of agricultural chemical (nutrient, pesticides etc.) from source to end assimilation. It will lead the scientist towards conservation of resources along with precise agriculture by introducing new sensing methods. Biofortification and nano-packaging of different food is an innovative application of nano-science in food industry which is making it more interesting and applicable. Nano remediation has proved challenging and promising methods to clean the environment providing active adsorption and precipitation for variety of contaminants. Environmental and human risk assessment associated with the use of engineered nano-materials is still a matter of debate. Due to the increased application of nanoparticles in the fields of modern science and technology, the demand to produce these particles has escalated resulting increased contamination of the environment and increased exposure to biota in biosphere. Therefore, this chapter will provide an opportunity for readers to have well understanding of nano-technology and application of nano-materials in future.