A range of new materials was created by nanotechnology in the past decade.
Some of these materials such as metal nano-particles and carbon nanotubes were used to reduce environment pollution by cleaning polluted soils and water.
The negative impact of nano-particles on the environment and human health is yet to be completely understood. As a result of this, a minimal release of nano-particles was recommended as a precautionary principle. This precautionary principle was to be followed till the toxicity and fate of the nano-particles are understood in a better manner. In relation to this aspect Thilo Hofmann, dean at the Faculty of Geosciences, Geography and Astronomy of the University of Vienna, stated that nano-materials should be understood in a better manner in order to evaluate whether the potential new risks can be overcome by the benefits of nano-materials.
The market already has a variety of nano-pesticide products. The reduction in the usage of pesticides will allow nano-pesticides to reduce environmental pollution. Higher toxicity, enhanced transport and longer persistence can lead to the development of different kinds of contaminations of waterways and soils by nano-pesticides.
Food systems and agricultural practices can be revolutionized by nanotechnology. Active research has been conducted over the past few years in order to develop pesticide products.
An assessment of the disadvantages and advantages of using nano-pesticides is yet to be confirmed and a prerequisite for this assessment should help in understanding the effect and fate of nano-pesticides. An analysis on the suitability of current regulations should be conducted in order to implement refinements. Research on nano-pesticides should be given significant importance in order to preserve the quality of the environment and the food chain.
Source: http://www.univie.ac.at/en/