Climate-Smart Nanotechnology for Sustainable Soil Fertility and Agricultural Productivity: A Review
Abstract
Climate change, degradation of natural resources, and increasing global demand for food create substantial challenges for sustainable farming systems. In this context, climate-smart nanotechnology has emerged as a promising interdisciplinary approach that can support soil fertility, improve crop performance, and promote environmental sustainability. This review critically examines how nanotechnology contributes to climate-smart agriculture, with particular attention to soil fertility management, enhanced nutrient-use efficiency, crop stress tolerance, precision farming, and soil remediation. Nano-fertilisers improve nutrient availability and uptake efficiency through controlled release and targeted delivery, thereby reducing losses through leaching, volatilisation, and runoff. Nano-sensors enable near-real-time monitoring of soil and plant conditions and support precision agriculture and informed input management. In addition, nanomaterials can improve plant tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and heat by influencing physiological and biochemical processes. Nano-based remediation strategies can also support the restoration of affected soils through adsorption, immobilisation, and catalytic degradation of contaminants. Despite these benefits, climate-smart nanotechnology presents several challenges, including possible nanoparticle toxicity, ecological risks, high production costs, regulatory constraints, and limited awareness among farmers. Future research should focus on eco-friendly green synthesis routes, biodegradable nanomaterials, and integration with advanced systems such as artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). With appropriate risk assessment, policy support, and field validation, climate-smart nanotechnology has considerable potential to support sustainable agriculture and strengthen food security under changing climatic conditions.