Health and Environmental Risks of Nanomaterials

The rapid advancement of nanotechnology has introduced unprecedented opportunities across multiple sectors, yet simultaneously raised significant concerns regarding potential health and environmental risks associated with nanomaterial exposure. This chapter provides a comprehensive examination of the toxicological profiles, exposure pathways, and ecological impacts of engineered nanomaterials. We explore the unique physicochemical properties that govern nanomaterial behavior in biological and environmental systems, including size-dependent reactivity, surface chemistry, and cellular uptake mechanisms. The discussion encompasses occupational and consumer exposure scenarios, health effects observed in experimental studies, and environmental accumulation patterns. Particular attention is devoted to challenges in risk assessment methodologies and current regulatory frameworks. The chapter evaluates safe-by-design principles in nanomaterial development and protective strategies for workers, consumers, and ecosystems. By synthesizing current scientific understanding with regulatory perspectives, this chapter aims to foster informed decision-making in nanotechnology development while ensuring human and environmental safety remains paramount.