Transforming waste into wealth: Leveraging nanotechnology for recycling agricultural byproducts into value-added products

Abstract

The extensive generation of agricultural waste worldwide poses significant environmental challenges. Traditional disposal methods, such as crop burning, contribute to severe air pollution and ecological degradation. Current agricultural waste management strategies often fail to fully utilize the potential of these residues for conversion into valuable resources. This review highlights the transformative role of nanotechnology in upcycling agricultural waste into high-value, sustainable products, thereby advancing the circular economy. Innovations such as nanocatalysts, biodegradable nanomaterials, and nano-enabled agrochemicals have opened efficient pathways for converting agricultural residues into nanomaterials like nanocellulose, biopolymers, bioplastics, nanofertilizers, and biochar. These technologies provide eco-friendly alternatives to conventional materials while addressing pressing global sustainability challenges. Despite technical, regulatory, and market barriers, integrating nanotechnology into agricultural waste management offers immense potential to minimize waste, reduce environmental impacts, and create economic value. This review emphasizes the need for supportive policies, collaborative efforts between industry and academia, and increased public awareness to foster the widespread adoption of nanotechnological innovations. By reimagining agricultural waste as a valuable resource, nanotechnology can drive sustainable development and enhance resource efficiency, paving the way toward a greener and more resilient future.