Advancing sustainable agriculture: Enhancing crop nutrition with next-generation nanotech-based fertilizers

The pressing need to enhance nutrient use efficiency (NUE) in fertilizers has become increasingly urgent in light of food insecurity and climate-related issues. Nanotechnology offers promising prospects for the development of effective and environmentally friendly alternatives in the field of fertilization. This review focuses on the impact of nanotechnology on conventional fertilizers, encompassing inorganic, organic, and microbial approaches. We emphasize the superior attributes of nano-fertilizers compared with their conventional counterparts and explore their potential and versatility in boosting crop productivity, reducing fertilizer expenses, and mitigating detrimental environmental impacts. In conclusion, given the significant challenges posed by food insecurity and climate change, the application of nano-fertilizers demonstrates immense potential for advancing sustainable and intelligent agricultural practices.