Nano-enabled Sustainable and Precision Agriculture

Nano-enabled Sustainable and Precision Agriculture is the first single-volume resource to present this important field using a whole systems approach, and considering both the opportunities and challenges. As climate change, increasing populations, competing demands on land for production of biofuels, and declining soil quality challenge global food security, finding sustainable solutions requires bold new approaches and integration of knowledge from diverse fields, such as materials science and informatics. The convergence of precision agriculture, whereby farmers respond in real-time to changes in crop growth, with nanotechnology and artificial intelligence offers exciting opportunities for sustainable food production. Coupling existing models for nutrient cycling and crop productivity with nanoinformatics approaches to optimize targeting, uptake, delivery nutrient capture and long-term impacts on soil microbial communities will allow design of nanoscale agrochemicals that combine optimal safety and functionality profiles. However, development of nanotechnology for agricultural applications is still at an early stage. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of nanotechnology in agriculture from broad aspects, but also includes a comprehensive view of the interaction of nanomaterials with soil-plant system. It highlights aspects that not described in previous books, including the application of nanoinformatics and artificial intelligence in nano-enabled sustainable agriculture, the application of nanotechnology in alternative forms of agriculture such as hydroponics, and regulatory framework for this research field. Nano-enabled Sustainable and Precision Agriculture addresses all these aspects and by including enhanced sustainability, reduced pollution and enhanced ecosystems health, and the role of nanoinformatics and machine learning the book is the go-to resource for students and practitioners alike. Provides foundational insights and resources for each area: soil science, water chemistry, nanoscience, plant science, microbiology and nanoinformatics Focuses on mechanisms of action, transformations and the underpinning chemistry and biochemistry Includes linkages and cross-referencing between chapters to ensure a cohesive and comprehensive resource