Biogenic nanoparticles: A promising solution for enhancing crop sustainability under climate change

The synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) through conventional chemical methods has raised serious concerns due to their high energy consumption, toxic chemicals, and harmful byproducts. As the need for more sustainable and eco-friendly practices in various industries grows, biogenic nanoparticles (BNPs), synthesized using biological systems like plants, fungi, bacteria, and algae, have emerged as a promising alternative. These biogenic NPs offer significant advantages, such as reduced energy consumption, the elimination of harmful chemicals, and enhanced stability and biocompatibility, making them particularly suitable for applications in agriculture. However, there are gaps in the understanding of the long-term environmental and ecological impacts of BNPs. While their biodegradability and potential for reducing environmental pollution are well-documented, concerns about their interaction with soil microbiota and their long-term behavior in agricultural ecosystems remain underexplored. This review highlights the promising applications of BNPs in sustainable agriculture, including enhanced plant growth and the improvement of soil health. Moreover, BNPs have demonstrated the ability to reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, offering an economically viable solution for both smallholder and large-scale agricultural operations. By examining the benefits, challenges, and future directions of BNPs in agriculture, this article aims to bridge the knowledge gap and provide insights into how these NPs can contribute to environmentally sustainable and economically viable agricultural practices. The future of BNPs in agriculture lies in their integration with precision farming technologies, which can further optimize nutrient delivery and pest control while minimizing environmental harm. With ongoing advancements in biotechnology and green chemistry, BNPs are poised to play a pivotal role in addressing the global challenges of food security, environmental degradation, and sustainable development.